Postdoctoral positions 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.

The MPE invites applications for up to three postdoctoral positions to work in the European Research Council 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 overarching goal of the project is to constrain dark matter models and the cosmological parameters using eROSITA observations of clusters of galaxies, together with complementary multi-wavelength data.

Applicants must have a PhD or equivalent degree in physics, astronomy, or a related field by the date of the appointment. The successful candidate should have experience in on or more of the following areas:

1. Clusters of galaxies

2. X-ray data analysis and interpretation

3. Gravitational lensing in the context of clusters or large-scale structure

The appointment will 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/432/Application/CheckLogin/2?lang=eng ), including a CV, a list of publications, and a brief (~2 page) description of research interests, by March, 1 2021. Review will begin soon after that date, but later applications may be considered if received before the selection process is completed. 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: [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 is committed to increasing the number of individuals with disabilities in its workforce and therefore encourages applications from such qualified individuals.

Furthermore, the Max Planck Society seeks to increase the number of women and minorities in those areas where they are underrepresented and therefore explicitly encourages women and minorities to apply.