Postdoctoral Position in the Planet and Star Formation Department at the Max Planck Institute for Astronomy (MPIA), Heidelberg

The Max Planck Institute for Astronomy (MPIA) in Heidelberg is seeking dedicated and highly qualified postdoctoral researchers to work in any of the following areas: formation of planetary systems, search for and characterization of extrasolar planets, observational and theoretical studies of star formation, astrochemistry, laboratory astrophysics and origins of life studies, adaptive optics and IR instrumentation

The Planet and Star Formation Department (https://www.mpia.de/en/psf) at MPIA is pursuing a wide range of astrophysical research, encompassing large observing programs, instrumentation development, theoretical modelling, and laboratory astrophysics of prebiotic molecules (see http://www.mpia.de for details).

Our offer

A number of exciting research opportunities is available to MPIA, including imaging and spectroscopy at the Large Binocular Telescope (LBT). In addition, the successful candidates will have access to the Very Large Telescope, the Very Large Telescope Interferometer facility, and the APEX sub-millimeter telescope in Chile. MPIA astronomers also extensively use the 2.2m MPG telescope on La Silla and the IRAM and ALMA facilities. MPIA is part of the MATISSE and GRAVITY instruments for the VLTI and a partner in the Hat-South transit network. The Department is a leading member of the Heidelberg Origins of Life Initiative and investigates the formation of complex prebiotic molecules. In addition, MPIA is a core member of the radial velocity instrument CARMENES and is part of the SPHERE and JWST/MIRI consortia.

The available position ranges from independent work within the broad research directions of the Planet and Star Formation Department to more project-oriented positions. MPIA provides funds for publications, travel and computer equipment.

The position has a flexible starting date, with a preferred starting date after summer 2022. The appointment will be for an initial period of three years with a likely extension to four years.

The remuneration is based on the German collective wage agreement for the public sector (TVöD) depending on qualification and experience in level E13/E14.

Your profile

Applicants should have a PhD in astronomy, astrophysics, physics, chemistry or a closely related field.

Your application

Interested candidates should provide the following in their application:

• cover letter (1-2 page)
• brief CV (max. 3 pages)
• publication list
• brief research statement (including past, current, and future research – max. 3 pages not inc. references)

Please concatenate all documents in the order listed above in a single pdf file. Please also arrange for 3 letters of reference to be provided separately (see below). All application materials are due by December 15th, 2021 and must be submitted using the online application system: https://s-lotus.gwdg.de/mpg/mhas/psf_postdoc_334.nsf/portal

Any time before submission, candidates first need to register with the online system to generate a registration code, which should then be forwarded to referees for letter submission. For inquiries, please contact Thomas Henning ([email protected]) or Henrik Beuther ([email protected]). For assistance in submitting the application, contact Catharina Fairchild ([email protected]).

The Max Planck Society is an equal opportunity employer and strives for a diverse community of employees. Applications from historically underrepresented or disadvantaged groups are particularly encouraged. The MPIA supports its employees in their search for suitable childcare. For questions concerning promoting equal opportunity for all employees and prospective employees at MPIA, please contact Thavisha Dharmawardena ([email protected]). Regarding disabilities guidelines and regulations, please contact Ralf Launhardt ([email protected]).