Postdoctoral Fellowship Opportunity at RWTH Aachen University

RWTH Aachen University

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Description

RWTH Aachen University, located in the heart of Germany, is a world-leading research institution recognized for its excellence in science and engineering. The university is currently inviting applications for its prestigious Postdoctoral Fellowships under the “RWTH PORT to Europe” program. This fellowship is designed to support early-career researchers who are ambitious and motivated to advance their academic careers. Applicants must have completed their PhD within the last four years outside the European Union. The program offers a unique opportunity to work in a highly international and collaborative research environment. Selected candidates will gain access to state-of-the-art facilities, cutting-edge research projects, and mentorship from leading experts. This fellowship encourages innovative thinking and provides the freedom to explore interdisciplinary research opportunities. Researchers from diverse backgrounds are strongly welcomed, contributing to a vibrant and inclusive academic culture. The program not only strengthens professional skills but also fosters connections across European and global research networks. Interested candidates are encouraged to apply and take the next step in building a successful international research career in Germany. 

Responsibilities

Research Areas

Successful candidates will have the chance to contribute to innovative projects in the following areas:

• Robot-Ground Interaction (Robotics Applications): Explore how robots interact with various terrains and surfaces, including soil, sand, and uneven ground. Projects may involve designing adaptive robotic systems, developing simulation models, and testing robots in real-world environments to improve mobility, stability, and performance.
• Smart Geogrids and Innovative Geotechnical Solutions: Work on next-generation geotechnical materials like geogrids that enhance soil stability, support infrastructure, or improve environmental sustainability. Research may include sensor integration, monitoring techniques, and optimization of geotechnical designs for real-world engineering projects.
• Geothermal Energy Systems: Investigate renewable energy solutions by studying heat extraction from underground reservoirs. Research may cover thermal modeling, energy efficiency optimization, and innovative drilling or installation methods to make geothermal systems more effective and sustainable.
• Frozen Soils and Permafrost Studies: Study the behavior and properties of frozen soils and permafrost, which are critical for infrastructure development in cold regions. Projects may involve thermal modeling, field experiments, and understanding soil-structure interactions under freezing and thawing conditions.
• Computational Geomechanics and Related Modeling Approaches: Develop and use advanced numerical models and simulations to predict the mechanical behavior of soils, rocks, and structures. This can include finite element analysis, multiscale modeling, and data-driven approaches to solve complex geotechnical and engineering challenges. 

Qualification

Eligibility

1. PhD Completed Less Than 4 Years Ago Outside the EU: Applicants must have successfully defended their doctoral thesis within the last four years and obtained their PhD from an institution outside the European Union. This ensures candidates are early-career researchers ready to embark on advanced postdoctoral work in an international environment.
2. Strong Research Background in Geotechnical Engineering, Robotics, or Related Fields: Candidates should demonstrate a solid foundation in their respective disciplines, with proven research experience, publications, or projects in geotechnical engineering, robotics, computational modeling, or closely related areas. This ensures they can contribute effectively to the university’s cutting-edge research projects.

Application Deadline – 5th October 2025:
All applications must be submitted by 5th October 2025. Late submissions will not be considered, so applicants are encouraged to prepare and submit their documents well in advance to ensure full consideration.

Diversity & Inclusion

RWTH Aachen University values and celebrates diversity in all its forms. Applicants from diverse cultural, academic, and personal backgrounds are strongly encouraged to apply. The university is particularly welcoming of women researchers and individuals from underrepresented groups. Candidates whose experiences and perspectives can enrich the university’s academic culture are highly encouraged to join. RWTH Aachen is committed to creating an inclusive environment where all researchers feel supported. Collaboration and mutual respect are at the core of the university’s academic and research culture. The fellowship program aims to bring together a vibrant, interdisciplinary, and diverse community of scholars. By joining, researchers will contribute to a dynamic and equitable learning environment that fosters innovation. 

Application Process

Interested candidates must submit their applications via the RWTH Exploratory Research Space Portal. All required documents should be provided in PDF format.

Required Documents: 

• Letter of Motivation (max. 1 page): A concise statement explaining your research interests, career goals, and motivation for joining the RWTH PORT to Europe program.
• Research Proposal (max. 4 pages, excluding references): Outline your intended research, methodology, objectives, and potential impact. Emphasis should be placed on originality, feasibility, and alignment with the fellowship’s research areas.
• Curriculum Vitae and Publication List (max. 5 pages): Include up to 10 key publications. Applicants are encouraged to highlight a diverse range of academic contributions, such as teaching, mentoring, science communication, open science initiatives, competitive research funding, or societal impact.
• Researcher Identifiers: Include your ORCID ID, ResearchGate profile, or similar identifiers to allow access to your complete publication record.
• Letter of Support from RWTH Host (max. 1 page): A supporting letter from your prospective RWTH supervisor demonstrating research alignment and mentorship commitment.
• PhD Certificate or Confirmation of Completion: Include official proof of PhD completion or submission. Certified translations are required if the documents are not in English or German.
• Previous Academic Degrees: Upload all relevant degrees, including Bachelor’s and Master’s certificates.

Important Note: Applications that do not fully meet the specified requirements or are missing any required documents will not be considered. Applicants are advised to carefully review submission guidelines to ensure completeness and compliance. 

Identifying a Host at RWTH Aachen University

Before submitting your application, it is essential to secure a host at RWTH Aachen University who will support and supervise your proposed research. Candidates who have not yet identified a host are encouraged to explore RWTH’s research environment and Profile Areas to find potential supervisors whose expertise aligns with their research interests.

Applicants should reach out directly to prospective hosts to discuss research alignment and potential collaboration. Please note that host arrangements cannot be made after the application has been submitted, and applications without a confirmed RWTH host will not be considered. Early engagement with potential supervisors is therefore strongly recommended to ensure a strong, well-supported application. 

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