Postdoctoral position in planet formation and evolution theory

Applications are invited for a postdoctoral position in research related to (extrasolar) planets in Christoph Mordasini's "PlanetsInTime" research group at the University of Bern, Switzerland. We seek an excellent candidate in the areas of planet formation and evolution theory, in particular planetary thermodynamic and compositional evolution, internal structures, luminosities, atmospheric escape, planetary population synthesis, and the comparison of theory and observation. The University of Bern leads the network "PlanetS" of Swiss universities involved in planetary and exoplanetary science, hosts the Center of Space and Habitability, and is the leading house of the future ESA satellite CHEOPS, creating rich opportunities for collaborations.

Applicants must have a PhD in (astro)physics, or expect to be awarded a PhD before starting the position. The initial appointment is for two years with a possible one-year extension. Applicants should submit a cover letter, a 3 page research statement, a publication list, and a CV to Christoph Mordasini, [email protected]. Applicants should also arrange for three letters of recommendation to be directly submitted to the same email address. Full consideration will be given to applications received by 15. February 2017. The position should be filled at the earliest possible date, and could start as early as March 2017. 

The successful applicant will have access to substantial expenses for travel and computing equipment, as well as access to high-performance computing facilities. Swiss postdoc salaries are extremely competitive (between 75,000 and 95,000 CHF a year) even considering local costs of living, and are set by standard local regulations based on age and experience. The University of Bern is an equal opportunity employer, and female researchers are specially encouraged to apply.