Postdoctoral Prize Fellowship and Postdoctoral Positions 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 plans to offer up to 7 positions for pursuing innovative theoretical or observational research within its Galaxies and Cosmology department. The department’s research covers a wide range of topics related to galaxy evolution from the Milky Way to the highest redshift quasars: stellar spectroscopy as a diagnostic for stellar physics and Galactic archeology; star formation and the interstellar medium in galaxies near and far; galactic nuclei, black holes, and AGN; the redshift evolution of the galaxy population and of the intergalactic medium, as well as studies of the most distant galaxies and quasars. Our research approaches encompass multi-wavelength observations, large surveys and large observing programs, e.g. Gaia, JWST, Euclid, SDSS-V and 4MOST. We also pursue numerical simulations, as well as advanced instrumentation development. The department hosts several independent research groups supported by the MPG, ERC and the Humboldt foundation.

We invite applications for our independent prize fellowship and for the other positions detailed here: https://www2.mpia-hd.mpg.de/~gc_jobad/gc_23-368.html. All applications for the latter positions will also be considered for the fellowship.

Our offer
MPIA researchers have privileged access to the twin 8.4m Large Binocular Telescope (LBT) in Arizona, the 2.2m MPG telescope on La Silla, and the IRAM millimeter facilities, including the NOEMA interferometer. MPIA astronomers make frequent use of all ESO facilities, including the VLT and ALMA, and all are encouraged to lead proposals as principal investigators. MPIA also offers access to a range of local computing clusters and external super-computing resources (see e.g. at the MPCDF: https://www.mpcdf.mpg.de/). The institute leads or is involved in many large science collaborations and surveys, including SDSS-V, Euclid, 4MOST, VRO/LSST, and JWST GTO and GO programs. MPIA also plays a leading role in the data analysis for Gaia and instrumentation for the ELT.
 
Applicants should have a Ph.D. in astronomy, astrophysics, or a closely related field. The starting dates are expected to be no later than autumn 2024; earlier dates may be possible for certain positions. MPIA aims to provide a stimulating and supportive work environment, and the successful candidates can draw on funds for publications, computing, travel, training, etc. Remuneration will be on the German public sector scale (expected to be TVOeD level E14), depending on qualification and experience. Extensive social benefits are granted according to the regulations for public service.

Your application

Applicants should prepare a cover letter indicating the position(s) of interest, CV, publication list, and a brief statement of research interests by November 30, 2023 (Attention to: Dr. Eduardo Bañados, chair of the search committee), 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://career.mpia.de/en/applicants/new?job=36
 
For inquiries, please contact the chair of the search committee, Dr. Eduardo Bañados ([email protected]), the department assistant Susanne Koltes-Al-Zoubi ([email protected]), or any of the staff members in the Galaxies and Cosmology department (https://www.mpia.de/en/gc/staff).

The Max Planck Society is an equal opportunity employer and has set itself the goal of employing more severely disabled persons. Applications from women, persons with disabilities, and minorities are particularly welcome. The MPIA supports its employees in the search for suitable child care. For questions concerning promoting equal opportunity for all employees and prospective employees at MPIA, please contact our equal opportunity officers ([email protected]). Regarding disability guidelines and regulations please contact Ralf Launhardt ([email protected]).