Post-doctoral position in stellar/Galactic astrophysic at the Dr. Remeis-Sternwarte Bamberg, University of Erlangen-Nuremberg (Germany)

Post-doctoral position in stellar/Galactic astrophysic at the Dr. Remeis-Sternwarte Bamberg, University of Erlangen-Nuremberg (Germany)

Applications are invited for a research position at the astronomical institute of the University of Erlangen-Nuremberg (http://www.sternwarte.uni-erlangen.de)
to work on the research project ``Origin of massive high-velocity stars in the halo'',
which includes the enigmatic hyper-velocity stars (HVS). The goal is to understand the origin and nature of massive runaway and HVSs. Gaia astrometry will be the project's backbone and shall be utilized, e.g., to identify the origin of the stars, clarify their ejection mechanisms, and to constrain Galactic mass models. A complete sample of high-velocity stars shall be established to test population synthesis models.

Applicants should have a sound knowledge of stellar and Galactic astrophysics. Expertise in Gaia data handling and/or modeling of the Galactic structure would be highly beneficial. Familiarity with population synthesis modeling would be an asset.

The position is funded for three years and the appointment shall start on October 1st, 2017 or later.
Applicants should hold a PhD in astrophysics or should be close to finishing their thesis. To apply, please prepare a cover letter as well as a curriculum vitae, which includes statements on education and research experience, and provide the names of three contact persons who might be asked for letters of reference.

Please send your application by July 31st, 2017 (late applications will be considered until the position is filled) as a single PDF file to

Prof.~Dr.~Ulrich Heber ([email protected])
Dr.~Andreas Irrgang ([email protected])