Postdoctoral Positions in the Planet and Star Formation Department at the Max Planck Institute for Astronomy (MPIA), Heidelberg (Ref 389)

The UFOS group at the Max Planck Institute for Astronomy (MPIA) in Heidelberg is seeking dedicated and highly qualified postdoctoral researchers with a theoretical background to work in the following areas: code development and numerical fluid dynamics in protoplanetary disks.

The candidate is expected to actively develop and contribute to the GPU code gPLUTO. Candidates with experience in GPU programming and parallel computing are encouraged to apply.

The UFOS group (https://www.ufos-project.eu/) at MPIA is pursuing a wide range of astrophysical research, encompassing various theoretical models and observations of protoplanetary disks.  Several exciting research opportunities are available at MPIA. The successful candidates will have access to the computational facilities of the MPG including high-performance CPU and GPU clusters (MPCDF).

There is flexibility in starting dates, with a preference between 1. June 2025 and 1. October 2025.  Appointments are anticipated for a period of five years (3+2). MPIA provides funds for publications, travel, and computer equipment. The remuneration is based on the German collective wage agreement for the public sector (TVöD) depending on qualification and experience in level E14. Social benefits are granted according to the regulations for public service.

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

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 list the names of two referees who could submit references upon request.

All application materials are due by Feb 15, 2025 and must be submitted via email to [email protected]

For inquiries, please contact Mario Flock ([email protected]).

The Max Planck Society strives for gender equity and diversity. We welcome applications from all backgrounds. Furthermore, the Max Planck Society aims to increase the proportion of women in areas where they are underrepresented. Women are therefore explicitly encouraged to apply.  A good work-life balance is an important concern for us at the Institute. We offer our employees flexible working hours and provide support in finding suitable childcare facilities. The Max Planck Society has set itself the goal of employing more severely disabled people. Applications from severely disabled persons are expressly encouraged.
The MPIA supports its employees in the search for suitable child care. For questions concerning promoting equal opportunity for all employees and prospective employees at MPIA, please contact Heidi Korhonen ([email protected] and regarding disabilities guidelines and regulations please contact Ralf Launhardt ([email protected]).