You will be part of the Chair of Space Geodesy, a newly established research group around Prof. Benedikt Soja. The applicant will be supervised and supported by Dr. Matthias Schartner as part of an open research data project.

The tremendous growth of satellite mega-constellations such as Starlink and OneWeb, emitting signals at radio frequencies, threatens radio astronomy. The emitted satellite signal can cause radio frequency interference (RFI) or saturate the wideband receivers of the highly sensitive radio telescopes leading to an information loss or even failed observations. As a countermeasure, the International Very Long Baseline Interferometry Service for Geodesy and Astronomy (IVS) community, and the International Astronomical Union (IAU) have launched working groups on the measurement and mitigation of satellite RFI. One promising approach is to avoid observations close to potentially harmful satellites. Within this work, we plan to support this attempt by establishing an open database of satellite orbits and emitted satellite frequency spectra. We will curate existing orbit information and connect them with existing frequency information and measurements taken at the observatories.

We are seeking a highly motivated student or junior software developer to work on an open research data project in the field of space geodesy. The selected candidate will help develop a database of satellite mega-constellations such as Starlink and OneWeb. The database will list each satellite and will include its orbital information and the emitted frequency spectra. The satellite list as well as the orbit information will be provided but has to be updated regularly. Additionally, an API and a web interface should be established. Based on this database, radio telescopes will be able to avoid observing close to potentially harmful satellites. The project starts in February 2023 and will last 6 months.

• The applicant should be able to work independently based on guidance provided by the project lead Matthias Schartner.
• Swiss citizenship or a work permit is mandatory.
• Good interpersonal skills and the willingness to work in an international team of researchers and students are expected.
• Coding skills in Python etc.
• Experience in Django or Flask, as well as database handling and developing web interfaces is a plus.
• Experience with Continuous Integration is a plus.
• Eagerness to learn new skills is highly appreciated.
• A very good command of the English or German language is mandatory.
• We also encourage students to apply for the position.

ETH Zurich is a family-friendly employer with excellent working conditions. You can look forward to an exciting working environment, cultural diversity and attractive offers and benefits.

We look forward to receiving your online application with the following documents:

• short motivation letter including experience and professional background

Please note that we exclusively accept applications submitted through our online application portal. Applications via email or postal services will not be considered.

Further information about our research group can be found on our website https://space.igp.ethz.ch. Questions regarding the position should be directed to Matthias Schartner, email [email protected] (no applications).

For recruitment services the GTC of ETH Zurich apply.