TROPOMI is a satellite instrument on board of the European Sentinel 5 Precursor satellite, measuring several trace gases and aerosol parameters for air quality, climate and ozone monitoring applications. KNMI is the principal investigator institute for TROPOMI and responsible for data quality of the TROPOMI measurements.

For the TROPOMI team we are looking for an enthusiastic instrument scientist, who will work on a broad range of topics, including instrument monitoring, calibration, data analysis and algorithm development. The scientist will work in a team of about 10 experienced scientists and software engineers. The aim of the team is to understand the instrument in-orbit performance and to improve the quality of the TROPOMI data. The work will be done in international cooperation, with NSO and ESA as funding agencies, and in collaboration with partner institutes.

The successful applicant is expected to:

• have a Master degree in physics or a related field
• be fluent in English
• have experience in experimenting with optics or electronics
• have good analytic and mathematical skills
• have good communication skills
• work harmoniously in a research team
• have good knowledge of Python.
• be eager to learn the various aspects of satellite missions
• contribute to world-class level satellite missions

Knowledge of Dutch and a PhD in physics or a related field is an asset.

• Salaris­niveau: schaal 10, schaal 11
• Maand­salaris: min €2.811 – max. €5.139 (bruto)
• Dienst­verband: arbeidsovereenkomst voor bepaalde tijd
• Contract­duur: 2 years
• Maximaal aantal uren per week: 36

Other conditions of employement

In addition to your salary, you will receive an Individual Budget (IKB). The IKB consists of funds (16.37% of your gross annual salary) and time. With the IKB, you make choices that are right for you, and you can decide on some of your employment conditions yourself. For example, you could opt to receive part of your monthly salary at a date of your choosing. You could also use the budget to purchase additional leave, or vice versa, or spend it on tax-efficient purchases. The Government of the Netherlands strongly values personal growth and career development and offers a wide range of options to achieve that. The fringe benefits include various study facilities, company fitness, a full compensation of your public transport expenses for your commute and partially paid parental leave.

KNMI

The Royal Netherlands Meteorological Institute (KNMI) is the national institute for weather, climate research and seismology. It disseminates weather information to the public at large, the government, aviation, and the shipping industry in the interest of safety, the economy and a sustainable environment.

The KNMI is administratively part of the Ministry of Infrastructure and Water Management.

The Ministry of Infrastructure and Watermanagement is committed to improving quality of life, access and mobility in a clean, safe and sustainable environment. The Ministry strives to create an efficient network of roads, railways, waterways and airways, effective water management to protect against flooding, and improved air and water quality.

The department of R&D Satellite Observations contributes to research and monitoring of the Earth system by utilizing satellites. Its research activities focus on the quality and availability of satellite observations of essential atmospheric quantities, for climate research, air quality and ozone monitoring. The satellite activities of the department encompass the entire chain from collecting user requirements, developing and generating the required satellite products, to delivering products to users.