PhD Position Application of Planetary Radio Interferometry and Doppler Experiment

Overview

Advance planetary mission radio science with PRIDE Doppler/VLBI data and open-source analyses in orbit estimation and ephemeris improvement. The position is a PhD candidate role within the PRIDE collaboration, contributing to open, reproducible analysis pipelines for deep-space mission tracking and enhancing the scientific return of past, current, and upcoming planetary missions, including JUICE. A core element of the position is the use and extension of the Tudat open-source astrodynamics toolbox for state estimation and orbit/parameter determination, enabling rigorous fusion of PRIDE observables with conventional radiometric tracking data. The work will bridge radio data analysis, planetary science, and software development to improve the accuracy, traceability, and accessibility of advanced orbit determination methods for the broader community. Key responsibilities

Process, calibrate, and characterize PRIDE open-loop Doppler and phase-referenced VLBI observables. Implement, validate, and document workflows to integrate PRIDE data into least-squares orbit determination and parameter estimation using Tudat, with an emphasis on transparency and reproducibility. Analyze combinations of PRIDE and classical radio science data for missions such as Mars Express, Venus Express, Juno, and JUICE, aiming to improve reconstructed spacecraft trajectories and enable higher-quality science products. Contribute to extending Tudat’s capabilities for PRIDE-relevant use cases (e.g., tracking observable handling, interfaces, estimation settings, and automated validation). Deliver high-quality, FAIR research outputs: curated datasets, clear documentation, peer-reviewed publications, and open-source software that can be reused by both the PRIDE collaboration and the wider astrodynamics and radio-science communities. Job requirements

A Master’s degree (or equivalent) in Aerospace Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Physics, Astronomy or similar. Strong software engineering skills in Python. Strong background and research experience in astrodynamics/orbit determination and numerical methods. Experience in usage of PRIDE data is a strong plus. Experience in usage of radio science data is a plus. Experience in the usage and development of Tudat is a strong plus. Experience in usage and development of Tudat or a similar tool is required. Ability to work in a multidisciplinary, open-source environment. TU Delft

Delft University of Technology is built on strong foundations. TU Delft is a top international university combining science, engineering and design, delivering world-class results in education, research and innovation to address challenges in energy, climate, mobility, health and digital society. Our engineers are entrepreneurial problem-solvers in business and in a social context. At TU Delft we embrace diversity as a core value and actively engage to be a university where you feel at home and can flourish. We value different perspectives and qualities, which contribute to innovation and a vibrant community. We invite you to apply and ensure fair consideration of your application. Challenge. Change. Impact! Faculty Aerospace Engineering

The Faculty of Aerospace Engineering at Delft University of Technology is an international community focusing on innovation in aerospace to meet global challenges. Our work spans field labs, innovation hubs, and partnerships with other faculties, research institutes, governments, and industry, locally and globally. We are committed to fostering an inclusive and welcoming workplace, supported by an active Diversity & Inclusion team and initiatives that promote cultural exchange and integration. You don’t just join our faculty — you join a community where you can thrive and help shape the future of aerospace. Click to visit the website of the Faculty of Aerospace Engineering. Conditions of employment

Doctoral candidates will be offered a four-year employment period, in principle, formatted as two contracts. An initial 1.5-year contract with an official go/no-go progress assessment within 15 months, followed by an additional contract for the remaining 2.5 years if performance requirements are met. Salary and benefits follow the Collective Labour Agreement for Dutch Universities, ranging from €3,059 to €3,881 gross per month (full-time, 38 hours), plus 8% holiday allowance and an 8.3% end-of-year bonus. You will be enrolled in the TU Delft Graduate School, which provides an inspiring research environment, supervision, and a Doctoral Education Programme to develop transferable, discipline-related, and research skills. The university offers a customizable compensation package, health-insurance discounts, and a monthly work costs contribution. Flexible work schedules can be arranged. Relocation assistance is available through the Coming to Delft Service, and a Dual Career Programme supports accompanying partners.

Additional information

For more information about this vacancy or the selection procedure, please contact Dominic Dirkx at the provided contact point. Application procedure

Interested candidates should apply no later than 6 February 2026 by clicking the application button and uploading the following documents: CV Motivational letter You can address your application to Dominic Dirkx. Proficiency in English is required for Doctoral Education courses, writing, and communication. Details on the Graduate Schools Admission Requirements are available from the university. Notes

Please note: Online applications only. We will not process applications sent by email or post. A knowledge-security risk assessment is conducted during recruitment as part of protecting sensitive knowledge and technology. This assessment is based on information provided by candidates and may be performed at later stages of selection; negative outcomes will be communicated. This process is aligned with GDPR legal bases. Additional information on knowledge security is available in the university materials. An exemption from the Ministry of Education, Culture and Science may be required for certain research areas; information is available via the university website. Do not contact us for unsolicited services.

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