Postdoctoral Position in Euclid Science Ground Segment

Applications are invited for a new team member to take on responsibilities for the development and validation of algorithms and software for the high-accuracy calibration and cataloging of multiband optical and NIR data within the Euclid science ground segment. The central challenge is the validation and calibration of the ground based data from multiple, multi-band surveys over 15,000 deg2 in the northern and southern sky to sufficient accuracy to meet the Euclid science requirements. The science drivers of these requirements include the need (1) to estimate unbiased photo-z’s for faint galaxies to support cosmic shear and other studies and (2) to measure precise colors of stars for PSF modeling within the Euclid space based imagers to enable the extraction of unbiased shear estimates. The new team member will join a group of four scientists at LMU-Munich already addressing responsibilities within the external data (EXT) and merging or cataloging (MER) components of the mission. This Euclid development team interfaces with many other Euclid ground segment groups around the world and works within the context of the Cosmology and Structure Formation group at LMU-Munich, which is active in cosmology and structure formation studies in the mm-wave (SPT), optical (DES), radio (MeerKAT) and X-ray (eROSITA) regimes.

Candidates must have a Ph.D. in astronomy or physics and should have experience in the development of software. The efficient use of scripting and programming languages (such as Python and C++) is an asset. The appointment will begin in January 2020 or as soon thereafter as possible. This research position is open to all qualified individuals, regardless of nationality. German language skills are not required. Women and minorities are strongly encouraged to apply. The initial appointment (level E13 in German system) will be made for two years with the possibility of an additional year, pending adequate research progress. Please send a CV, a publication list, and a research statement. In addition, please arrange to have three letters of recommendation sent to Prof Mohr. Applications should be received by November 15, 2019.