Postdoctoral Researcher in ISM Physics and Chemical Abundances

We are seeking an ambitious, highly-qualified postdoctoral researcher to work on the ERC funded "ISM-METALS" project within the research group led by Dr. Kathryn Kreckel at the Astronomisches Rechen-Institut of the Zentrum für Astronomie at Heidelberg University (ARI/ZAH).  The offered position is funded by an ERC grant, and the group focuses on topics relating to ISM physics, star formation and stellar feedback on small (~10pc) spatial scales. 

Successful candidates will carry out research within the SDSS-V/LVM collaboration, and will exploit new optical IFU data from the planned Milky Way and LMC/SMC galaxy surveys (https://www.sdss5.org/mappers/local-volume-mapper/).  The project aims to answer key open questions relating to characterizing the chemical composition, physical conditions and internal structure of ionized HII regions, also in relation to the stellar ionizing sources.  We seek candidates with a Ph.D. degree in astronomy or a related field in combination with experience in studies of optical emission line diagnostics and gas-phase abundances, with an emphasis on topics including: optical integral field spectroscopy, statistical/data driven approaches, HII regions.  

ARI researchers have access to all ESO facilities, including the VLT, and to the Large Binocular Telescope (LBT).  Funds will be provided for travel, guests, computing, and publications. The group has strong collaborative ties with the other astrophysics groups in Heidelberg, as well as at the Max Planck Institute for Astronomy (MPIA).

The starting date is expected to be October 2023. The appointment will be for a period of 2+1 years. The salary will be according to the German public service scale TVOeD E13. Interested candidates should send a cover letter, brief statement of research interests and achievements (max. 3 pages), curriculum vitae, and publication list in a single pdf file to [email protected].  Applicants should also arrange to have three letters of reference separately sent to the above email address.  Applications submitted before January 6, 2023 will receive full consideration.  The position will remain open until filled. For further information please contact Dr. Kathryn Kreckel, [email protected] 

Heidelberg University is an equal opportunity employer. Women and members of under-represented groups are particularly encouraged to apply.