Long-Term Staff Scientist in Observational Exoplanet Science

The University Observatory Munich (German acronym: USM) of the Ludwig Maximilian University (LMU) is seeking a non-tenure track staff scientist in observational exoplanet science. We are interested in experts of both ground- and space-based observations, but are especially interested in individuals who will utilise the 2-metre telescope hosted within Wendelstein Observatory in the Bavarian alps. The successful candidate will develop an independent research program and will be able to co-supervise students and postdocs. The ideal candidate will work collaboratively within the Chair of Theoretical Astrophysics of Extrasolar Planets led by Prof. Dr. Kevin Heng; a "Chair" in the German academic system is a sub-department or intellectual ecosystem. Within this Chair are two research groups in planet formation (Profs. Drs. Barbara Ercolano and Til Birnstiel), as well as three other staff scientists in theory, climate modeling and high-performance computing, and geochemistry. The Chair operates as a confederation of experts; it also hosts independent postdoctoral fellows from the Fraunhofer Schwarzschild Fellowship Program.

Salary and benefits are paid according to the German public service pay agreement A13 (in German: "Beamter"). The advancement of women in science is an integral part of the university's policy. Therefore, women are especially encouraged to apply. Persons with disabilities will be given preference to other applicants with equal qualifications. German language skills are not required. The staff scientist position (in German: "Akademischer Rat auf Zeit") is available for a maximum period of 10 years: 3+3 years at first and an additional 4 years if the successful candidate obtains habilitation at the LMU during the first 6 years.

Applicants should submit the following components within a SINGLE PDF FILE: a CV (2 pages), publication list (no limit), statement of past, present and future research interests (4 pages). Specific ideas for using Wendelstein Observatory will be viewed favourably, especially for a regular observational program of exoplanet science. Please name the PDF file "lastname.pdf", where "lastname" is the last name of the applicant (all lower case). The deadline for submission is 31st December 2022.