62565: Student in Physics, Communications, Optical or Electrical Engineering (w/m/d) - Electrical design, integration and characterization of electro-optic interface for optical communications payload

The Advanced Optical Technologies group at DLR’s Institute of Communications and Navigation develops experimental laser communication systems for optical data links between airborne carriers such as airplanes or satellites and optical ground stations as well as demonstrator platforms for testbed system verifications. The integrated circuits development covers several disciplines such as optics, physics, electronics, programming and mechanics.

The successful applicant will support our team in the evaluation, testing and integration of electronic components for satellite communications and ranging applications. To address the unique challenge of designing the next generation of optical communications systems, she/he/they will investigate electro-optical interface design required in a high-speed transmission link. The designed PCB and required components are tested using laboratory equipment to verify their functions and assure their compatibility with other parts of the system. A preliminary study of the behavior of the components under radiation exposure and thermal cycles will also be assessed. Finally, the components shall be integrated on a high-frequency PCB, providing interfacing with an FPGA and optical sub-systems.

It is an excellent opportunity to work in a cutting-edge topic, gain experience on hardware integration and electronic measurement instrumentation, and improve your engineering skills.

Main activities:

• high-speed PCB design and electrical component selection
• integration and testing of PCBs to verify the design
• assess operating environment impact on the system
• microcontroller programming (in C)