Doctoral researcher ATLAS A02 - Aerodynamic Coefficients in Rarefied Flows : From Micro to Macro Scales

The DFG-funded Collaborative Research Centre (CRC) “Advancing Technologies of Very Low-Altitude Satellites” (ATLAS) at the University of Stuttgart (Germany) addresses the fundamental scientific and engineering challenges of rendering Very Low Earth Orbit (VLEO, about km to km altitude) accessible. These orbits are particularly beneficial for satellite services that have become indispensable to our modern knowledge, information, and communication society and enable the operation of satellites without exposing them or contributing to the increasing contamination of traditional orbits with space debris. The research programme encompasses 17 distinct scientific subprojects that are organised into three project areas, focusing on exploring the Gas-Surface Interactions, Enabling Subsystems, and Mission-related Challenges that are respectively critical towards ultimately achieving sustained VLEO operations. Striving towards this common goal, the CRC ATLAS encompasses an especially broad range of research disciplines as well as experimental, numerical, and analytical methods.

The ATLAS Project A02 : Aerodynamic Coefficients in Rarefied Flows : From Micro to Macro Scales is conducted under the joint leadership of Prof. Dr.-Ing. Andrea Beck at the Institute of Aerodynamics and Gas Dynamics (IAG) and Dr.-Ing. Marcel Pfeiffer at the Institute of Space Systems (IRS), respectively located on the Vaihingen Campus of the University of Stuttgart.

A detailed gas-surface interaction model with surface chemical reactions will be developed and implemented in the gas-kinetic DSMC code PICLas, using microscopic data from a partnering project This will enable more accurate predictions of drag and lift coefficients, bridging the gap between microscopic approaches and the required macroscopic values for entire satellites. Furthermore, Uncertainty Quantification (UQ) methods are investigated and implemented to account for uncertainties from flow boundary conditions and satellite design.

Two doctoral researchers will be collaborating in this project, with a respective focus on implementing gas-surface interaction models and on developing the required Uncertainty Quantification (UQ) environment. Focusing on the latter, your tasks include :

• Developing a multi-fidelity simulation framework to analyse the effects of on-orbit and model uncertainties on atmospheric drag at a mesoscopic level.
• Quantifying the primary drivers of uncertainty and their impact on satellite design for reference geometry.
• Conducting single-criterion geometry optimization for VLEO in-orbit conditions.
• Focusing on the development of the required Uncertainty Quantification (UQ) environment utilizing various detailed flow models such as DSMC or panel methods.

Suitable candidates possess a M.Sc. in engineering, physics, mathematics or an equivalent field of science relevant to the research program of the CRC ATLAS. Previous experience in the field of experimental and / or computational (rarefied) fluid dynamics is advantageous. Additionally, candidates should have excellent writing skills. Fluency in English is required; command of German is appreciated. Active support of and participation in the CRC program is expected.

All vacancies for Ph.D. positions include a full- or part-time position for a period of 3.75 years. Remuneration is based on the TV-L statutory scale and its associated public sector benefits. The earliest possible starting date is April 1st, .

For its doctoral and postdoctoral researchers, the CRC ATLAS offers an ambitious structured interdisciplinary training programme with joint supervision by experienced researchers from different disciplines. The program includes also opportunities for research stays abroad to foster international cooperation and for participation in international conferences for the dissemination of the respective findings. Selected candidates will likely find themselves in an exceptionally good starting position for their continued future career in academia or industry.

A complete application includes a letter of application, a detailed CV, and a list of publications (if applicable). Applications are accepted until the respective position is filled; a first application deadline is set to March 17th, .

At the University of Stuttgart, we actively promote diversity among our employees. We have set ourselves the goal of recruiting more female scientists and employing more people with an international background, as well as people with disabilities. We are therefore particularly pleased to receive applications from such people. Regardless, we welcome any good application.

Women who apply will be given preferential consideration in areas in which they are underrepresented, provided they have the same aptitude, qualifications and professional performance. Severely disabled applicants with equal qualifications will be given priority.

As a certified family-friendly university, we support the compatibility of work and family, and of professional and private life in general, through various flexible modules. We have an employee health management system that has won several awards and offer our employees a wide range of continuing education programs. We are consistantly improving our accessibility. Our Welcome Center helps international scientists get started in Stuttgart. We support partners of new professors and managers with a dual-career program.

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