Postdoc Position in High-Energy Astrophysics

Postdoc Position in High-Energy Astrophysics

Job code 21/2022

Applications are invited for one postdoctoral position in the High-Energy astrophysics group of the Max-Planck-Institute for Extraterrestrial Physics (MPE) in Garching, led by Prof. K. Nandra. The appointment will be for 2 years, with the possibility of extension to 3 years. Applicants must have Ph.D. in astronomy or astrophysics, or expect to obtain their Ph.D. in the near future.

MPE is a world-leading institute in space- and ground-based experimental astrophysics, with leading roles in a number of large astronomical projects. The high-energy group carries out major space hardware programs, including the development of X-ray detectors and X-ray optics. The group has contributed significantly to Chandra and XMM–Newton and has led the development of the eROSITA X-ray telescope, launched in 2019 aboard the SRG mission, and currently in its science exploitation phase. MPE is also a leading institute in ESA Athena X-ray observatory. We are also involved in a number of ground-based projects, such as GROND, SDSS-IV and -V, VISTA/4MOST, VRO/LSST, mostly in support of our space programs. For further details about MPE or the High-Energy group see http://www.mpe.mpg.de/214514/heg.

The successful candidate will be expected to undertake a program of research in one of the following areas of research of the high-energy group: (i) the hot phases of the interstellar and circum-galactic medium; (ii) accreting compact objects (black hole and neutron star binaries, accretion processes around supermassive black holes); (iii) high-energy transients and (iv) supermassive black hole evolution via X-ray and optical spectroscopic AGN surveys. The research program should be mainly focused on the exploitation of the eROSITA all-sky survey data and their multi-wavelength follow-up. Experience relevant to the research of the MPE High-Energy group is essential. Familiarity with X-ray data analysis and/or interpretation would be desirable.

Salaries will be paid at German civil service rates (TVöD-Bund) depending on postdoctoral experience.

Applicants should submit their documents (in English, and in PDF form) via our application portal online (https://recruitingapp-5257.de.umantis.com/Vacancies/505/Application/CheckLogin/2?lang=eng ), by 30.11.2022, including a cover letter, a curriculum vitae, a list of publications, a brief (~1 page) description of research interests and the names of three referees that can provide letters of reference upon request. Informal enquiries about the position may be addressed to Dr. Andrea Merloni ([email protected]).

The Max Planck Society and the MPE strive for gender and diversity equality. We welcome applications from all backgrounds. The Max Planck Society is committed to increasing the number of individuals with disabilities in its workforce and therefore encourages applications from such qualified individuals.