Science Coordinator (50%) for the Cluster of Excellence “Our Dynamic Universe”

The Universities of Bonn and Cologne, the Max Planck Institute for Radio Astronomy, the Heidelberg Institute for Theoretical Studies, Forschungszentrum Jülich, and the German Aerospace Center (DLR) are jointly establishing the new Cluster of Excellence “Our Dynamic Universe”.

The Argelander Institute for Astronomy at the University of Bonn invites applications for a Science Coordinator (50%)  position, with a primary focus on scientific coordination and community support, and with supporting contributions to science communication activities within the Cluster. The position will be based at the University of Bonn.

YOUR TASKS

Scientific coordination and community support (primary responsibility)

• Organization of conferences, collaboration meetings, workshops, and colloquia 
• Assist in the preparation of scientific funding proposals
• Preparation and coordination of annual scientific reports and related documentation for the Cluster 
• Independent coordination of cluster activities in close collaboration with the scientific and administrative teams
• Development and implementation of new formats to foster scientific exchange and collaboration within the Cluster

Science communication (supporting role)

Science communication activities will be carried out in support of a dedicated science communication position within the Cluster.

• Contribution to the development and maintenance of the Cluster’s web presence
• Support in the development and implementation of innovative science communication formats

YOUR PROFILE

• A PhD in physics, astronomy, or a closely related field 
• Broad interest in astrophysics and data-driven research
• Strong communication skills and the ability to convey scientific topics to diverse audiences
• Experience in working independently as well as collaboratively in an interdisciplinary environment
• Experience in creating and maintaining websites
• High proficiency in written and spoken English
• Knowledge of German at least at CEFR level B2 is required, or the willingness to acquire this level within a reasonable time frame after appointment
• Working knowledge of LaTeX

Ideally, you also bring:

• Experience in coordinating scientific projects or large collaborations
• Experience in organizing conferences, workshops, or scientific events
• Experience in preparing or supporting research funding applications
• Prior involvement in science communication or outreach activities (as a secondary qualification)

WE OFFER

• A coordination-focused scientific position with broad exposure to the activities of a large, interdisciplinary research consortium
• A versatile and responsible position within a newly established Cluster of Excellence
• A diverse, international, and collaborative working environment
• Flexible working time models
• Access to extensive professional development and training opportunities

The position is available on a 50% basis and will be filled for a fixed term until 31 December 2032. Remuneration is according to TV-L E13, including all benefits of the German public sector.

The University of Bonn is committed to diversity and equal opportunity. It is certified as a family-friendly university and actively promotes gender equality. Applications will be handled in accordance with the Landesgleichstellungsgesetz (State Equality Act). Applications from women, as well as from individuals with severe disabilities or equivalent status, are particularly welcome. The University of Bonn values diversity in all its dimensions and welcomes applications from candidates with diverse backgrounds.

APPLICATION

Please submit the following documents as a single PDF file by email to [email protected]:

• cover letter,
• curriculum vitae,
• short description of relevant experience (max. 1 page), and
• where available, examples of previous science coordination, communication, or web-related work

Applications received by February 10 will receive full consideration.

For further information, please contact Prof. Cristiano Porciani ([email protected])