Postdoctoral Prize Fellowship and Positions (Reference Number 349) in the Galaxies and Cosmology Department at the Max Planck Institute for Astronomy (MPIA) in Heidelberg

The Max Planck Institute for Astronomy (MPIA) in Heidelberg is offering 10 positions to pursue innovative research within the Galaxies and Cosmology department. The department’s research covers a wide range of topics in galaxy evolution from the highest redshift quasars to the Milky Way: stellar spectroscopy as a diagnostic for stellar physics and Galactic archaeology; star-formation and the interstellar medium in galaxies near and far; galactic nuclei, black holes, and AGN; the redshift evolution of the galaxy population and of the intergalactic medium, as well as studies of the most distant quasars. Our research approaches encompass multi-wavelength observations (radio to X-rays), large observing programs, and large surveys such as Gaia, SDSS-V and 4MOST, advanced instrumentation development, as well as theoretical modelling and numerical simulations. The department also hosts a number of independent research groups supported by the MPG, ERC and the Humboldt foundation.

Research areas and specifics of the postdoctoral positions are laid out here: https://www2.mpia-hd.mpg.de/~gc_jobad/gc_22-349.html. Exceptional candidates in all areas of astrophysics related to the above topics will also be considered for an independent prize fellowship.  

Our offer

MPIA researchers have privileged access to the twin 8.4m Large Binocular Telescope (LBT) in Arizona, the 2.2m MPG telescope on La Silla, the Calar Alto 2.2m telescope, and the IRAM millimeter facilities, including the newly upgraded NOEMA interferometer. MPIA astronomers make frequent use of all ESO facilities, including the VLT and ALMA, and all are encouraged to lead proposals as Principal Investigators. MPIA also offers access to a range of local computing clusters and external super-computing resources (see e.g. at the MPCDF: https://www.mpcdf.mpg.de/). The institute leads or is involved in many large science collaborations and surveys, including SDSS-V, 4MOST, VRO/LSST, and JWST GTO and GO programs. MPIA also plays a leading role in the data analysis for Gaia, the preparations for Euclid, and instrumentation for the ELT.

Applicants should have a Ph.D. in astronomy, astrophysics, or a closely related field. The appointments will be for three or four years, depending on the available resources of the respective research group. The starting dates are expected to be no later than autumn 2023; earlier dates may be possible for certain positions. MPIA aims to provide a stimulating and supportive work environment, and the successful candidates can draw on funds for publications, computing, travel, training, etc. Remuneration will be on the German public sector scale (expected to be TVOeD level E14), depending on qualification and experience. Extensive social benefits are granted according to the regulations for public service.

Your application

Applicants should prepare a cover letter indicating the position(s) of interest, CV, publication list, and a brief statement of research interests by November 23, 2022 (Attention to: Dr. Annalisa Pillepich, chair of the search committee), and arrange for three letters of reference to be provided separately by the same date. All applications and reference letters must be submitted using the online application system: https://career.mpia.de/en/applicants/new?job=12

For inquiries, please contact the chair of the search committee, Dr. Annalisa Pillepich ([email protected]), the department assistant Susanne Koltes-Al-Zoubi ([email protected]), or any of the staff members in the Galaxies and Cosmology department (http://www.mpia.de/en/GC/people).

The Max Planck Society is an equal opportunity employer and strives for a diverse community of employees. Applications from historically underrepresented or disadvantaged groups are particularly encouraged. MPIA supports its employees in their search for suitable child care. For questions concerning promoting equal opportunity for all employees and prospective employees at MPIA, please contact our equal opportunity officers ([email protected]). Regarding disability guidelines and regulations, please contact Ralf Launhardt ([email protected]).