PhD Position Opening at the EP2 Lab – Miniaturized Hall Thruster Development

The Plasma and Space Propulsion Team (EP2 Lab) at the Department of Aerospace Engineering, Universidad Carlos III de Madrid (UC3M) is offering 1 fully funded PhD position within the framework of the MLPLUS-CM research project.

Research Project: MLPLUS-HT

The position focuses on the development of a miniaturized low-power Hall Thruster and its neutralizer, followed by experimental validation and physical analysis using advanced plasma diagnostics. The selected candidate will work under the supervision of Prof. J. Navarro Cavallé, with the support of a multidisciplinary team of researchers.

Candidate Profile

We are looking for a highly motivated MSc graduate with:

• • A total of 300 ECTS completed (BSc + MSc)
  • Strong background in Aerospace Engineering, Plasma Physics, Applied Mathematics, Scientific Computing, Electromagnetism, or Fluid Dynamics.
  • Hands-on experience in laboratory environments and design projects (preferred)
  • Excellent academic record and ability to think critically and creatively
  • Strong communication and teamwork skills
  • International experience is a plus
  • High level of English proficiency (spoken and written)

What We Offer

• • Up to 4-year contract, with a starting annual gross salary of €25,000, plus performance-based bonuses

  • Inclusion in a young, international, dynamic research team

  • Opportunities to attend international conferences and publish research

  • Research internships abroad

  • Flexible working hours and environment

How to Apply

Please send your application to odriva@pa.uc3m.es with the subject “MLPLUS-HT”, including the following PDF documents:

• • 1-page motivation letter

  • CV, including education and work experience. Grade transcripts and class rankings are welcome

  • Contact details of up to two references (they will be contacted during the evaluation)

  • A sample of your best work (e.g., MSc thesis)

Deadline: June 15, 2025 — Early applications are encouraged. The position will be filled as soon as a suitable candidate is found.
Start date: September 2025 (negotiable).
We particularly encourage applications from women and underrepresented minorities.

This contract is financed with funds from the Community of Madrid through the project “Integración de Consolidación de una Plataforma de MicroSatélite y Tecnologías para Investigación Cientítica Espacial Avanzada” with reference number TEC-2024/ TEC-263, and acronym MLPLUS-CM, within the modality of programmes of R&D activities in Technologies (2024), for the encouragement and promotion of research and technology transfer at the Universidad Carlos III de Madrid.