4-year Postdoctoral Position in Ringlaser Research

The project is Part of the DFG funded RING research group. The focus of this position is to optimize and extend the operability of the world wide unique ring laser array ROMY towards applications in geophysics and geodesy.

The Department of Earth and Environmental Sciences and the Geophysical Observatory of the Ludwig-Maximilians-Universität München are leading geophysical research institutions in Europe as well as worldwide. We are seeking a

Postdoctoral Researcher (m/w/d)

At Munich and the  Geophysical Observatory Fürstenfeldbruck

for

Optimizing the 4-component ring laser array ROMY for geodesy and geophysics

The position is part of the German RING research group that aims at pushing the limits of ring laser instruments for applications in Earth System science with applications in geodesy and geophysics. The postdoc position will be central to the project with additional 14 PhD positions in physics, geodesy and geophysics. On the technical side the position will oversee the technical upgrade of the worldwide unique four-component ring laser array ROMY at the Geophysical Observatory Fürstenfeldbruck, the development and extension of the entire data processing chain, stabilization of the observations, quality control, and provision of high-quality rotational motion data to the scientific community. The work will be done in close collaboration with the ring laser laboratory at the University Bonn, the Fundamentalstation Wettzell and all RING partner institutions. The successful candidate will also be involved in the organization of (training) workshops for the RING network as well as outreach activities. Experience with (laser-) optical methods and electronics is welcome.

Tasks:

  • Stabilization of the ring laser perimeter
  • Stabilization of beam pointing
  • Assessment of internal deformation.
  • Understanding the limits of heterolithic ringlasers for Earth System Science
  • Automated Quality control of ring laser data
  • Optimization of data provision to community
  • Scientific analysis of data for geodesy and geophysics
  • Development of strategies for ultra-precise ground motion monitoring (with view to gravitational wave detection facilities)

 

You:

  • PhD in Physics/Optics or an Earth science related topic.
  • Ability to work independently, self motivated within an interdisciplinary team.
  • Attention to detail and high level of critical thinking.
  • Strong interest in experimental physics/optics/laser optics
  • Experience in Python programming is an advantage.
  • Proficiency in English language is essential.

We offer:

LMU offers an interdisciplinary environment with excellent opportunities for further training and development.

  • Fixed term contract for 4 years, salary according to DFG regulations (100% German TVL-E 13, Entgelttabelle des Tarifvertrags der Länder). In principle the project can be prolonged for another four years after review.
  • LMU Munich is interested in increasing the number of female employees and encourages women to apply. Persons with disabilities are given preference if they are otherwise essentially equally suitable.
  • Flexible, family friendly working time models (e. g. remote work is possible) in the center of the attractive and vibrant city of Munich close to the Alps.
  • More information can be found on the LMU web pages.

Contact and application:

Complete applications must include a motivation letter (max 1 page), CV, and names of at least two referees. Deadline for applications is 15.06.2026. Later applications may be considered until the position is filled. Please send your application to: Prof. Dr. Heiner Igel, Department of Earth and Environmental Sciences, LMU Munich, Theresienstrasse 41, 80333 Munich, Germany, e-mail: heiner.igel@lmu.de