MPIA Fellowship and Postdoctoral Research Positions (Stars, Galaxies, and Cosmology) - Reference Number 17-11

The Max Planck Institute for Astronomy (MPIA) in Heidelberg is seeking up to six postdoctoral researchers to pursue innovative research projects within the scientific context of the Galaxies and Cosmology department. Active research areas in the department include: stellar atmosphere modeling, stellar populations and Galactic archaeology from spectroscopic surveys and the Gaia mission; dynamics, ISM, and star formation in nearby galaxies; galactic nuclei and AGN; galaxy evolution (observational and theoretical) and high redshift quasars. The Galaxies and Cosmology department pursues a wide range of astrophysical research projects in the above topics, encompassing large observing programs, the analysis of large surveys, instrumentation development, and theoretical modeling and simulations. It also hosts a number of MPG, Humboldt, and ERC research groups.

We are seeking to fill positions in several research groups. In addition, exceptional candidates in all areas of astrophysics broadly related to the above topics will be considered for an independent fellowship position. For details on all open positions please follow this link: http://www.mpia.de/homes/gc_jobad/gc_17-11.html

MPIA researchers have privileged access to the twin 8.4m Large Binocular Telescope (LBT) in Arizona, the 2.2m MPG telescope on La Silla, the Calar Alto 2.2m telescope and the IRAM millimeter facilities including the newly upgraded NOEMA. Postdoctoral researchers are encouraged to lead proposals as Principle Investigators. MPIA astronomers make frequent use of all ESO facilities including the VLT and ALMA, and have access to a range of local computing cluster and external super-computing resources. The institute leads or is involved in a number of large science collaborations and surveys, and it plays a leading role in the data analysis for Gaia and the preparations for Euclid.

Applicants should have a PhD in astronomy, astrophysics, or a closely related field. The appointments will be for three years. The starting dates are expected to be no later than autumn 2018; earlier dates may be possible for individual positions. The MPIA provides a stimulating work environment, and funds for publications, computing, travel, etc. Remuneration will be on the German public sector scale (TVOED level E13/E14), and depends on qualification and experience. Social benefits are granted according to the regulations for public service.

For inquiries, please contact the chair of the search committee, Dr. Eva Schinnerer ([email protected]), or any of the staff members in the Galaxies and Cosmology department (http://www.mpia.de/en/GC/people).

Candidates should send a cover letter (indicating the position(s) of interest), CV, publication list, and a brief statement of research interests by December 1st, 2017, and arrange for three letters of reference to be provided separately by the same date. All applications and reference letters must be submitted using the online application system: https://s-lotus.gwdg.de/mpg/mhas/gc_pd_17_11_in.nsf

Before submission, candidates first need to register with the online system to generate a registration code, which should then be forwarded to referees for letter submission. The cover letter, CV, publication list, and research statement must be concatenated into a single PDF file.

The Max Planck Society is an equal opportunity employer. Applications from historically underrepresented groups are particularly welcome. MPIA supports its employees in their search for suitable childcare.