Postdoctoral positions in Observational Cosmology in the ERC Funded Project “DarkQuest”

The Max Planck Institute for Extraterrestrial Physics (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, led by Prof. K. Nandra, carries out major space hardware programs, including the development of X-ray detectors and X-ray optics, in support of its astrophysics research program.

MPE invites applications for multiple postdoctoral positions to work in the European Research Council (ERC) funded project "DarkQuest: Shedding Light on the Nature of Dark Matter and Dark Energy with Multi-Wavelength All-Sky Surveys” led by Dr. Esra Bulbul. The eROSITA X-ray telescope, developed by MPE, is currently performing the largest galaxy cluster survey to date, and will deliver a catalog of >100,000 clusters of galaxies and galaxy groups during its 4 year all-sky survey. The overarching goal of the eROSITA cluster survey and the ERC project is to constrain the cosmological parameters using observations of clusters of galaxies, together with complementary multi-wavelength data.

Successful candidates will work on characterization and identification of clusters of galaxies discovered by eROSITA through follow-up photometric and spectroscopic data sets in the optical band, and exploit the data in the areas of observational cosmology and astrophysics. Candidates with experience in the multi-band optical and IR photometry of galaxies surveys are encouraged to apply. The postdoctoral researcher will join the young and dynamic clusters and cosmology group at MPE and benefit from membership of the eROSITA, SDSS, 4MOST, and LSST collaborations.

Applicants must have a PhD or equivalent degree in physics, astronomy, or a related field by the date of the appointment. Appointments will initially be for 2 years with the possibility of further extension. Funding for travel, computing, and publication expenses will be provided. The salary and social benefits are based on the German TVöD scale for public employees, depending on experience.

Applicants should submit their documents (in English, and in PDF form) online (https://recruitingapp-5257.de.umantis.com/Vacancies/491/Application/CheckLogin/2?lang=eng), including a CV, a list of publications, and a brief (~2 page) description of research interests. Applications will be accepted until the position is filled, but review of applications will begin by June 30, 2022. The names of three referees should be provided, who can provide letters of recommendation upon request.

Prospective applicants can contact Dr. E. Bulbul for further information ([email protected]).

For details about MPE or the High-Energy-Group see http://www.mpe.mpg.de/index or http://www.mpe.mpg.de/214514/heg/ .

The Max Planck Society has set itself the goal of employing more severely disabled people. Applications from severely disabled persons are expressly encouraged.

The Max Planck Society strives for gender equity and diversity and would like to increase the number of women in areas where they are underrepresented. Women are therefore expressly encouraged to apply.