Postdoc (f/m/x) Planet-forming Disks and Astrochemistry

The Space Research Institute in Graz, Austria, invites applications for a position as

Postdoc (f/m/x) 

in the research group “Planet-forming Disks and Astrochemistry” led by Priv.-Doz. Dr. Peter Woitke as part of the OeAW’s efforts to expand the theme of exoplanet research at the Space Research Institute (IWF) in Graz.

The Space Research Institute (IWF) is involved in about 20 missions led by the world’s main space agencies. The disk group focusses on connecting astrochemistry with planet formation, modelling the physico-chemical processes in disks, and to link these models to astronomical and solar system observations, and geology. Current research topics include the structure and chemical composition of the disk probed with ALMA and JWST, the impact of dust evolution, external irradiation and disk winds on element abundances, chemistry and observation, and the prediction of the material composition of rocks and ices forming in the disks.

Your Tasks

• Prepare archival and new observational data (for example ALMA or JWST) for analysis and modelling, including high-quality data reduction
• Use ProDiMo ( see https://prodimo.iwf.oeaw.ac.at) to analyse and interpret these observations
• Identify future ESA L, M, and F space missions with IWF contribution related to disks, and get involved in the international science teams preparing the science cases for them

Your Profile

• The applicant must hold a PhD in Physics, Geophysics, Astrophysics, or a related field
• Experience with astrochemistry in protoplanetary disks
• Experience with data reduction, in particular ALMA and JWST
• Excellent publication record

Our Offer

The appointment will be for 3 years initially but can be extended up to 6 years, subject to the availability of funding and performance. The appointment begins as early as November 1st, 2026, but can also be agreed to start at a later time. The minimum annual gross salary for this position is EUR € 70.167,44 (full-time based), in accordance with the collective agreement of the Austrian Academy of Sciences (ÖAW). For part-time employment, the salary will be adjusted on a pro rata basis in line with the agreed working hours.

The closing date of applications is September 15, 2026, but remains open until a suitable candidate has been found.

For inquiries, contact Dr. Peter Woitke ([email protected]). For more information about the institute and the disk group, see http://www.iwf.oeaw.ac.at.

The Austrian Academy of Sciences (OeAW) pursues a non-discriminatory employment policy and values equal opportunities, as well as diversity. Individuals from underrepresented groups are particularly encouraged to apply.