Research Associate (m/f/d) - Nacelle Lidar Measurements in Complex Terrain

The Fraunhofer-Gesellschaft (www.fraunhofer.de) is one of the world's leading organizations for applied research. 74 institutes develop pioneering technologies for our economy and society - more precisely: 30,000 people from technology, science, administration, and IT. You know: Anyone who comes to Fraunhofer wants and can make a change. For themselves, for us, and for the markets of today and tomorrow. Fraunhofer IEE in Kassel conducts research in the fields of energy economics and energy systems technology with a focus on: energy informatics, energy meteorology and geoinformation systems, energy economics and system design, energy process technology and storage, grid planning and grid operation, grid stability and converter technology, as well as thermal energy technology. Around 450 scientists, employees, and students develop solutions for the energy transition and generate approximately 38 million euros in revenue per year.

Do you want to help shape the implementation of the energy transition and work at the interface of science and industry?

Then become part of the Site Assessment Wind group and support us in the project "Development of nacelle lidar-based methods for performance verification and yield increase of wind farms in complex terrain (ELISE)", funded by the BMWE.

Here, you will ensure change

• Scientific collaboration in the mentioned research project and implementation of your own ideas within the scope of the topic
• Development of models to improve and correct turbulence measurements with nacelle lidar
• Analysis and processing of wind measurement data from various instruments
• Development of AI-based and data-driven models for the correction of turbulence measurements with nacelle lidar
• Wind field simulation of atmospheric turbulence with various modeling approaches, especially Large Eddy Simulations
• Uncertainty determination of wind speed and turbulence measurements with nacelle lidar
• Transfer of results into wind energy applications within the framework of IEC standards and relevant guidelines
• Publication of research results
• The activity is designed for scientific further development and will be supported accordingly. This is associated with very good opportunities for a doctorate or scientific advancement after the doctorate
• Close cooperation with the Wind Energy Technology Institute (WETI) of the Hochschule Flensburg
• Close cooperation with wind energy turbine manufacturers, operators, and certifiers

This is what you bring to the table

• A university degree in an engineering, computer science, business, mathematical, or natural science course of study, or a comparable field, completed with at least good success. The required degree must be available no later than the starting date
• Interest in scientific work in the field of energy meteorology and wind energy, particularly the topic of turbulence and lidar
• Sound knowledge in one or ideally several of the following fields: meteorology, wind energy, flow simulations, turbulence research, Signal Processing, lidar, AI applications, mathematics, physics
• Significant prior experience in using a scripting or programming language - ideally Python
• Goal-oriented thinking, strong analytical skills, team spirit
• Independence, initiative, and enjoyment of interdisciplinary collaboration
• Writing a cover letter that demonstrates your suitability based on the requirements in this advertisement
• Good English skills

The following are an advantage:

• Experience in data analysis and modeling, ideally with Python
• Experience in the field of energy meteorology
• Experience with atmospheric measurement technology - ideally in the context of wind energy
• Experience in the field of turbulence measurement or modeling
• Experience in the field of Large Eddy Simulation
• Scientific publications - ideally in a field relevant to the activity
• Knowledge of wind conditions and turbulence
• Knowledge in the field of boundary layer meteorology
• Knowledge in the field of planning, design, or operation of wind farms
• Good German skills

What we have in store for you

• A varied task in a nationally and internationally renowned organization for applied research

• Opportunities for reconciling family and career, awarded with the Fraunhofer quality seal "FamilienLogo", including the use of a co-child office
• Commitment to the Diversity Charter - We actively promote diversity and inclusion in all areas
• Opportunity for a doctorate
• Flexible working hours and the possibility to work from home or in the modern institute building with a New Work concept in a central location
• A fair remuneration system with individual performance-related components and profit sharing
• Company pension scheme (VBL), 30 days of vacation, job ticket, good public transport connections, free parking including high-performance charging infrastructure for electric vehicles with preferential conditions for employees, as well as Corporate Benefits

We value and promote the diversity of our employees' competencies and therefore welcome all applications - regardless of age, gender, nationality, ethnic and social origin, religion, worldview, disability, as well as sexual orientation and identity. People with severe disabilities will be given preference if they are equally qualified. Our tasks are diverse and adaptable - together we will find solutions for applicants with disabilities that optimally promote their abilities. The weekly working time is 19.50 hours. The position can also be filled part-time, is initially limited to 2 years, and is to be filled at the earliest possible date. We aim for long-term cooperation. Employment, remuneration, and social benefits are based on the collective agreement for the public service (TVöD). Additionally, Fraunhofer may grant performance- and success-related variable remuneration components. With its focus on future-relevant key technologies as well as on the exploitation of results in business and industry, the Fraunhofer-Gesellschaft plays a central role in the innovation process. As a guide and impulse generator for innovative developments and scientific excellence, it helps to shape our society and our future. Ready for change? Then apply now and make a difference! After receiving your online application, you will receive an automatic confirmation of receipt. Then we will get back to you as soon as possible and tell you how it proceeds.

Luzie Barten (Recruiting) will be happy to answer questions about this position: E-Mail: luzie.barten@iee.fraunhofer.de Tel.: +49 (0) 561 / 7294 - 1672 Fraunhofer-Institut für Energiewirtschaft und Energiesystemtechnik IEE www.iee.fraunhofer.de

Reference number: 85464 Application deadline: 11.09.2026

Luzie Barten (Recruiting) will be happy to answer questions about this position: E-Mail: luzie.barten@iee.fraunhofer.de Tel.: +49 (0) 561 / 7294 - 1672