Postdoc Position in Large Area Optical Surveys

Applications are invited for a postdoctoral position in the High-Energy astrophysics group of the Max-Planck-Institute for Extraterrestrial Physics (MPE) in Garching, led by Prof. K. Nandra. The position will focus on analysis and interpretation of data from large area optical surveys in support of the eROSITA all-sky X-ray survey, and associated software development.

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 carries out major space hardware programs, including the development of X-ray detectors and X-ray optics. The group has contributed significantly to Chandra and XMM–Newton and has led the development of the eROSITA X-ray telescope, launched in 2019 aboard the SRG mission, and currently in its science operations phase. MPE is a leading institute in ESA’s Athena X-ray observatory, due for launch around 2032, and the group is also involved in a number of ground-based projects, such as LSST, GROND, SDSS-V, VISTA/4MOST, mostly in support of our space programs. For further details about MPE or the High-Energy group see http://www.mpe.mpg.de/214514/heg.

The successful candidate will join the team responsible for reduction and analysis of ground-based data (from e.g. DECam, LSST) in support of the eROSITA project, and is expected to develop associated software tools e.g. for the calculation of photometric redshifts for galaxies and AGN. They will also undertake related eROSITA science investigations in one of the main areas of research of the high-energy group: clusters of galaxies and cosmology; supermassive black hole evolution; accreting compact objects (black hole and neutron star binaries, accretion processes around supermassive black holes).

Applicants must have a Ph.D. in astronomy or astrophysics, or expect to obtain their Ph.D. in the near future. Experience in large-scale ground-based optical/NIR imaging data reduction is essential, and expertise in astronomical software development and documentation would be highly desirable. Expertise in photometric redshift determination would be a further asset. The successful candidate will be expected to perform original research in one of the scientific areas listed above, and should have a research and publication record commensurate with this expectation.

Salaries will be paid at German civil service rates (TVöD-Bund) depending on postdoctoral experience. The appointment will be initially for 2 years, with the possibility of extension to 4-5 years depending on project requirements and funding. The position is available immediately.

Applicants should submit their documents (in PDF format) online (https://recruitingapp-5257.de.umantis.com/Vacancies/437/Application/CheckLogin/2?lang=eng ) including a cover letter, a curriculum vitae, a list of publications, a brief (~1 page) description of research interests and the names of three referees that can provide letters of reference upon request.

Informal enquiries may be addressed to Dr. Mara Salvato ([email protected] ). Applications received by 31 March 2021 will receive full consideration, but late applications will be considered until the position is filled. 

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 in those areas where they are underrepresented and therefore explicitly encourages women to apply.