Head of Section 1.1 "Space Geodetic Techniques" - Job Opportunity at GFZ Helmholtz-Zentrum für Geoforschung

Potsdam, Germany
Full-time
Executive
Posted: April 18, 2025
On-site
EUR 85,000 - 120,000 per year based on German public service scales (W2/W3 professor level)

Benefits

Comprehensive research infrastructure and state-of-the-art equipment
Professional development through extensive training programs
On-site daycare facility supporting work-life balance
Flexible working arrangements with option for part-time
Career advancement support through dedicated Career-Centre
Public service benefits package
Prime location in Albert Einstein science park

Key Responsibilities

Strategic leadership of satellite geodesy research division with focus on GNSS technology
Management of observational facilities including ground stations and satellite receivers
Development and oversight of real-time GNSS applications and radio occultation systems
Direction of research initiatives in geodetic reference frames and Earth system observation
Coordination of international scientific collaborations and service provisions
Strategic planning and execution of third-party funded research projects

Requirements

Education

PhD in Satellite Geodesy or related field

Experience

Senior level research experience in satellite geodesy

Required Skills

GNSS technology expertise Research leadership capabilities Project management experience International collaboration experience Infrastructure management skills Interdisciplinary research coordination
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Industry Trends

Growing importance of space-based Earth observation systems for climate change monitoring Increasing integration of GNSS technology in environmental and atmospheric research Rising demand for real-time geodetic data in natural hazard monitoring Expansion of international collaboration networks in Earth science research

Role Significance

Leading a research section of approximately 15-25 scientists and technical staff based on typical research section structures
Executive level position with significant influence on European space geodesy research direction

Key Projects

Development of next-generation GNSS monitoring systems International geodetic reference frame maintenance Climate change impact assessment through space geodesy Natural hazard early warning system development

Success Factors

Strong international research network and collaboration skills Ability to secure and manage significant research funding Vision for advancing space geodetic techniques in Earth system science Experience in managing complex technical infrastructure Track record of interdisciplinary research leadership

Market Demand

High demand for leadership roles in space geodesy due to expanding Earth observation programs and increasing focus on climate change monitoring

Important Skills

Critical Skills

Advanced expertise in GNSS technology and applications Strategic research leadership experience International project management capability Infrastructure operation knowledge

Beneficial Skills

Experience with space mission planning Data science and AI applications in geodesy Public communication skills Policy and stakeholder management

Unique Aspects

Combination of research leadership with infrastructure management
Direct involvement in international Earth observation services
Opportunity for joint university professorship
Integration of research with climate change and natural hazard applications

Career Growth

5-7 years in current role before progression to higher leadership positions

Potential Next Roles

Department Director Research Institute Director Scientific Board Member of International Organizations University Professor with Institute Leadership

Company Overview

GFZ Helmholtz-Zentrum für Geoforschung

Leading national research center for Earth sciences with strong international reputation

Premier institution within Helmholtz Association, Germany's largest scientific organization
Central European hub for geoscience research with global collaboration network
Research-focused environment with emphasis on scientific excellence and societal impact
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