Scientist (m, f, div, n.a.) for the operation of an ACTRIS cloud observatory

Leipzig,

The Leibniz Institute for Tropospheric Research is a research institute of the Leibniz Association and an internationally renowned institute in the field of aerosol and cloud research. The Atmospheric Chemistry Department (ACD) is looking for an experienced and motivated scientist to set up and operate a range of chemical aerosol instrumentation at its Schmücke Cloud observatory (SCO) as part of the European research infrastructure ACTRIS.

Main Tasks:

• Operation of a suite of on-line mass spectrometers (ToF-ACSM-X, VOCUS-PTR-MS) and further instrumentation to measure atmospheric composition in the gas and particle phases.
• Operation of offline instrumentation such as filter samplers and cloud water collectors during dedicated campaigns.
• Implementation of ACTRIS quality assurance (QA/QC) measures and standard operating procedures (SOP) for the metrics of the respective devices, where not already in place
• Implementation of workflows for data processing, data control and data transfer in accordance with the ACTRIS data center guidelines
• Regular maintenance, quality control and calibration of the equipment both on-site and in the TROPOS ACD laboratories
• Regular validation and submission of the acquired data to the ACTRIS database
• Participation in ACTRIS intercomparison workshops at European topic centers providing support for the respective device
• Participation in ACTRIS-related and other events, including conferences, technical tutorials, workshops, etc.
• Analysis and interpretation of measurement data and preparation of scientific publications

Requirements:

• PhD degree in discipline of the natural sciences, preferably chemistry
• Knowledge and experience in online mass spectrometry (AMS, ACSM, PTR-MS) and field campaigns
• Knowledge and experience in offline analytical instrumentation (IC, LC-MS) would be beneficial
• High intrinsic motivation, ability to work both independently as well as a part of a team, competent cooperation with international teams
• Strong organizational skills
• Very good knowledge of the English language, at least some basic German would be beneficial
• Valid EU driver's license and willingness to travel frequently to the observatory site, including overnight stays
• Experience with data processing software such as IGOR, R, MATLAB, etc. including programming skills would be beneficial
• Background knowledge in atmospheric chemistry and physics would be beneficial
• For any questions, feel free contact Prof. Dr. Hartmut Herrmann (herrmann[at]) or Dr. Dominik van Pinxteren (dominik[at])

We offer:

• The opportunity to work in the Atmospheric Chemistry Department (ACD) of TROPOS, a vibrant international group of colleagues who will support you in further developing your career
• Fixed-term contract of about 3 years. Depending on available funding, an extension could possibly be offered in the future.
• An exciting workplace in the lively city of Leipzig with a multifaceted job in an interdisciplinary work environment and a variety of work-life balance offers as well as flexible working hours and daycare facilities

We offer you an exciting position with varied tasks in an interdisciplinary working environment and a wide range of measures to help you balance work and family life, as well as flexible working hours and childcare places. The position is limited to 36 months (TV-L 13/14) and includes the attractive social benefits of public service employment. TROPOS and TROPOS ACD value the diversity of its employees and pursue the goals of equal opportunity. The institute aims to increase the proportion of women in research and therefore encourages qualified women to apply. People with severe disabilities have priority in hiring if they have the same aptitude, ability, and professional qualifications.

Please send your complete, informative documents in written or electronic form with the keyword: ACDSCO by November 28th 2025, exclusively electronically to only bewerbung[at] By submitting the application documents by e-mail, the applicant agrees to the storage/processing of personal data in accordance with Art. 13 DSGVO for the purpose of selection for this job advertisement. The risks of sending documents electronically are hereby pointed out.