Postdoctoral Research Positions (Reference Number 19-11) 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 seeking a number of post-doctoral researchers to pursue innovative research projects within the scientific context of the Galaxies and Cosmology department. Active research areas in the department include: stellar atmosphere modelling, stellar populations and Galactic archaeology from spectroscopic surveys and the Gaia mission; dynamics, ISM, and star formation in nearby galaxies; galactic nuclei, seed black holes and AGN; galaxy evolution (observational and theoretical) and high red-shift quasars. The Galaxies and Cosmology department pursues a wide range of astrophysical research projects in the above topics, encompassing large observing programmes, the analysis of large surveys, instrumentation development, and theoretical modelling and simulations. It also hosts a number of MPG and ERC research groups.

Exceptional candidates in all areas of astrophysics related to the above topics will be considered for an independent fellowship position. In addition we are seeking to fill a number of positions in several research groups; for details on all open positions please follow this link:
http://www.mpia.de/homes/gc_jobad/gc_19-11.html

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. MPIA astronomers make frequent use of all ESO facilities including the VLT and ALMA, and all are encouraged to lead proposals on all these facilities as Principal Investigators. MPIA also offers access to a range of local computing cluster and external super-computing resources. The institute leads or is involved in a number of large science collaborations and surveys, including JWST GTO programs on distant galaxies and quasars, and it plays a leading role in the data analysis for Gaia and the preparations for Euclid.

Applicants should have a PhD in astronomy, astrophysics, or a closely related field. The appointments will be for three or four years, depending on research group. The starting dates are expected to be no later than autumn 2020; earlier dates may be possible for individual positions. The MPIA provides a stimulating work environment plus funds for publications, computing, travel, etc.. Remuneration will be on the German public sector scale (expected to be TVOED level E14), and depends on qualification and experience. Social benefits are granted according to the regulations for public service.

For inquiries, please contact the chair of the search committee, Dr. Nadine Neumayer ([email protected]), or any of the staff members in the Galaxies and Cosmology department (http://www.mpia.de/en/GC/people).

Candidates should send a cover letter (indicating the position(s) of interest), CV, publication list, and a brief statement of research interests by November 30, 2019, 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://lotus2.gwdg.de/mpg/mhas/gc_pd_19_11.nsf/portal

Before submission, candidates first need to register with the online system to generate a registration code, which should then be forwarded to referees for letter submission. The cover letter, CV, publication list, and research statement must be concatenated into a single PDF file.

The Max Planck Society is an equal opportunity employer. Applications from women, disabled people, and minority groups are particularly welcome. MPIA supports its employees in their search for suitable child care.