Postdoc on Stellar Standard Candles

The successful applicant will work on strengthening the direct measurement of the local Hubble constant via the Local Distance Network by improving the accuracy of distance measurements using stellar standard candles. Emphasis lies on the analysis of photometric observations from state-of-the-art space- (e.g., HST, JWST, Roman) and ground-based facilities (e.g., VLT, ELT); algorithmic contributions to the Local Distance Network are also welcome.

Your profile

• Master and PhD degree in astrophysics or related discipline (completion required by starting date)
• Self-motivation and evidence of (beginning) research independence
• Strong statistical and analytical skills
• Experience in optical/infrared crowded-field photometry, preferably including time-series observations
• Experience in programming and image processing
• Experience in distance measurements based on standard candles and/or analysis of resolved stellar populations is an asset
• Open communication and collaborative spirit
• Very good command of the English language

What we offer

• A collaborative and dynamic international research group where your initiative is valued
• Personalized supervision, disciplinary training, and mentoring
• Opportunities for conducting astronomical observations
• Funding for travel and publications
• An interdisciplinary and collaborative research environment with expertise spanning from the Solar system to the Early Universe
• Access to powerful observational infrastructure, including ESO facilities, the Hobby-Eberly-Telescope, and 1m-class telescopes on both hemispheres, among others
• A strong commitment to diversity, equality, and mutual respect

The position is based in Göttingen, a charming university city at the heart of Germany. It is funded by zukunft.niedersachsen, the joint science funding program of the Lower Saxony Ministry of Science and Culture and the Volkswagen Foundation.

The University of Göttingen is an equal opportunities employer and places particular emphasis on fostering career opportunities for women. Qualified women are therefore strongly encouraged to apply in fields in which they are underrepresented. The university has committed itself to being a family-friendly institution and supports their employees in balancing work and family life. The University is particularly committed to the professional participation of severely disabled employees and therefore welcomes applications from severely disabled people. In the case of equal qualifications, applications from people with severe disabilities will be given preference. A disability or equality is to be included in the application in order to protect the interests of the applicant.