Postdoctoral positions in High-Energy Astrophysics

Applications are invited for two postdoctoral positions in the High-Energy astrophysics group of the Max-Planck-Institute for Extraterrestrial Physics (MPE) in Garching, led by Prof. K. Nandra. Appointments will be initially for 2 years, with the possibility of extension to 3 years. Applicants must have Ph.D. in astronomy or astrophysics, or expect to obtain their Ph.D. in the near future.

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 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 be expected to undertake a program of research in one of the main areas of research of the high-energy group: clusters of galaxies and cosmology; accreting compact objects (black hole and neutron star binaries, accretion processes around supermassive black holes); supermassive black hole evolution; high-energy transients. The research program should be mainly focused on the exploitation of eROSITA survey data and their multi-wavelength follow-up. Experience relevant to the research of the MPE High-Energy group is essential. Familiarity with X-ray data analysis and/or interpretation would be highly desirable.

Salaries and social benefits will be paid at German civil service rates (TVöD-Bund) depending on postdoctoral experience.

Applicants should submit their documents (in PDF format) online (https://recruitingapp-5257.de.umantis.com/Vacancies/430/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. Andrea Merloni ([email protected]).

Applications received by 31 Jan 2021 will receive full consideration, but late applications will be considered.

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.