> Markdown version of [/jobs/ext/3909537-postdoc-radio-science-orbit-determination-researcher-developer-tudat](https://www.wearedevelopers.com/jobs/ext/3909537-postdoc-radio-science-orbit-determination-researcher-developer-tudat). Every page supports `.md` or `Accept: text/markdown`. Links point to the HTML versions so they work for humans too. Agent guide: [/agents.md](https://www.wearedevelopers.com/agents.md).

---

# Postdoc Radio Science & Orbit Determination Researcher/Developer (Tudat)

- **Company:** TU Delft
- **Location:** Delft, Netherlands
- **Contract:** Temporary contract
- **Skills:** Artificial Intelligence, Data Analysis, C++ (Programming Language), Code Review, Issue Tracking Systems, Python (Programming Language), Open Source Technology, Software Engineering, Data Ingestion, Git
- **Published:** October 26, 2026
- **Apply:** https://www.academictransfer.com/en/jobs/365026/postdoc-radio-science-orbit-determination-researcherdeveloper-tudat/apply/

## About the Role

* A Ph.D. in Aerospace Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Physics, Astronomy or similar
 * Strong software engineering skills in C++ and Python, as well as git, CI, testing, code review, etc.
 * Strong background and research experience in astrodynamics/orbit determination and numerical methods.
 * Experience in the usage and development of Tudat is a strong plus. Experience in usage and development of Tudat or a similar tool is required.
 * Experience with radio tracking data analysis or planetary mission spacecraft dynamics is a strong plus.
 * Ability to work in a multidisciplinary, open-source environment.

## Description

We are seeking a researcher/developer to combine core development of the TU Delft Astrodynamics Toolbox (Tudat) with radio-science application development for the development of an open science spaceflight dynamics infrastructure. The goal is to enable high-fidelity orbit propagation and estimation from real tracking data (Doppler, range, VLBI, etc.) for planetary missions. Additional work packages in the same project will focus on space situational awareness and solar system dynamics., * Develop and maintain Tudat's C++ core and Python interfaces, ensuring performance, robustness, and long-term maintainability.

 * Implement and validate extensions and improvements to radio-science estimation pipelines, including observation models, dynamical models, and mission-specific configuration.
 * Extend relevant background models in Tudat (gravity variations, radiation pressure, atmosphere, spacecraft dynamics) and interfaces for mission data ingestion.
 * Lead the application of the framework to selected missions and representative datasets, including defining validation cases, producing reference results, and coordinating scientific priorities with project partners.
 * Contribute to scientific publications describing the platform and demonstrating scientific results enabled by the radio-science workflows and open-source toolchain.
 * Build end-to-end workflows supporting FAIR and open science, including version-controlled analysis setups and consistent outputs.
 * Write documentation, tutorials, and developer guides; support users via issue tracking and community channels.
 * Collaborate closely with platform developers and scientists across TU Delft and partner institutes.