Postdoc Optical Alignment Systems for Optical Ground Stations for Laser Satellite Communications

Laser satellite communication is an emerging technology with strong potential for future high-capacity data transmission, particularly for intersatellite links. In this postdoctoral position, you will develop and demonstrate innovative alignment methods for optical ground stations. Your work will contribute to improving the stability and reliability of free-space optical communication links.

Job Description

Laser satellite communication is an emerging technology with strong potential for future high-capacity data transmission, particularly for intersatellite links. However, reliable optical communication between ground stations and satellites remains challenging due to the extremely narrow beam divergence of laser beams. This results in stringent requirements for alignment accuracy and for managing residual vibrations in optical communication terminals.

In this postdoctoral project, you will investigate alignment systems for optical ground stations used in laser satellite communications. The main objective is to develop an alignment method between the receiving and transmitting channels that can mitigate the effects of vibrations, thermal fluctuations, and finite mechanical tolerances. Ultimately, you will contribute to the realization of a laboratory setup to demonstrate and validate the proposed method.

You will work within the Free Space Optical Communications group, part of the Space Instrumentation section in the Space Engineering Department of the Faculty of Aerospace Engineering at TU Delft. In this environment, you will collaborate with researchers working on optical communication technologies and space instrumentation, contributing to ongoing research in this rapidly evolving field.

Job Requirements

• You hold a PhD degree, or have a scheduled doctoral defence, in Physics, Electrical Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Optical Engineering, or a related field.
• You have demonstrated experience in experimental research.
• You have proven experience with the alignment of optical systems in a laboratory or research setting.
• You have experience in the field of optical communications.
• You have strong analytical and problem-solving skills.
• You have excellent written and verbal communication skills in English (minimum B2 level, preferably C1/C2).
• You are able to work effectively in a multidisciplinary research environment.
• A security screening may be part of the selection procedure due to knowledge protection regulations.

TU Delft

Faculty of Aerospace Engineering

The Faculty of Aerospace Engineering at Delft University of Technology is a leading international community where innovation in aerospace meets global challenges. Our support and scientific staff, including PhD candidates, postdocs, and students, largely work together on three main themes: the energy transition, sustainable aerospace, and safety and security, with the aim of tackling climate change and contributing to the independence and security of Europe.

When you join us, you become part of a diverse, collaborative, and forward-thinking environment where your ideas and perspectives are valued. Our work extends beyond the lab into field labs, innovation hubs, and partnerships with other faculties, research institutes, governments, and industry, both locally and globally.

You don’t just join our faculty — you join a community where you can thrive, grow, and help shape the future of aerospace.