Postdoctoral Researcher – Spaceborne Radar Systems (2-year)

About the role

We are seeking a motivated postdoctoral researcher for a two‑year fixed‑term position at TU Delft. The role is part of NL‑RIA 2.0, a Dutch network on small spaceborne radar instruments funded by the Netherlands Space Agency. You will contribute to the development of next‑generation spaceborne radar systems for distributed synthetic‑aperture radar (SAR) and near‑nadir interferometric imaging.

Key responsibilities

• Derive high‑level user requirements for distributed SAR and interferometric imager concepts.
• Evaluate fractionated space system architectures for suitability as radar platforms.
• Develop system requirements and conceptual designs for miniaturised radar missions.
• Support NL‑RIA 2.0 network activities, including market surveys, technology inventories, proposal preparation, and coordination of meetings and workshops.
• Collaborate closely with NL‑RIA partners and international stakeholders.

Required profile

• PhD in aerospace engineering, electronics, or a closely related field.
• Proven experience in space mission design and space systems engineering, preferably with distributed or formation‑flying systems.
• Basic knowledge of Earth observation or radar technologies.
• Experience in project management involving multiple entities is advantageous.
• Strong motivation to work on real‑world space missions and contribute to societal impact.

Required skills

• Space mission design
• Space systems engineering
• Distributed space systems
• Formation flying
• In‑orbit assembly
• Radar‑based Earth observation
• Project coordination

What we offer

• Two‑year fixed‑term contract at a leading European space research institute.
• Access to the NL‑RIA network and collaboration with international partners.
• Opportunity to shape breakthrough radar technologies for low‑cost distributed space missions.
• Supportive research environment within the Section of Space Systems Engineering.