Applications are invited for a postdoctoral position in the field of high redshift spectroscopic surveys. We are searching for an astrophysicist with experience in optical spectroscopy and software development. The Hobby-Eberly Dark Energy Experiment (HETDEX) is a blind-spectroscopic survey that will map the evolution of Dark Energy using Lyman-alpha emitting galaxies in the high redshift universe (z = 1.9 - 3.5). Observations are expected to start in early 2014. The survey instrument, VIRUS, consists of 75 IFUs distributed across the 22-arcmin field of the upgraded 9.2-m HET. Each exposure gathers 33,600 spectra. The candidate should have a strong interest in cosmological or galaxy surveys and is expected to spend about equal amounts of time on the data analysis and on the science exploitation of HETDEX. Strong experience with C++ and the Python programming language is a requirement. The applicant will have access to the HET telescope through the MPE partnership, the unique data product of HETDEX itself and other facilities available to us (e.g. ESO telescopes, also via guaranteed time). Start date is September 2013 (flexible) for 2 years guaranteed with the possibility of extension up to five years. Applications should include a curriculum vitae, publication list, statement of research and software experience and interests and arrange for at least three letters of reference to be sent by Feb 28, 2013 via email to: Prof. Ralf Bender Director of MPE bender@mpe.mpg.de Later applications may also be considered if the position is not filled by March 2013. The Max-Planck Society is an equal opportunity Employer, yet specifically aims to increase the number of female employees.
