PhD position on stellar standard candles and/or variable star populations

The successful applicant will use state-of-the-art data from large astronomical surveys and targeted observations to improve the accuracy of distance measurements based on stellar standard candles, notably with the goal of improving the measurement of the local expansion rate of the Universe (the Hubble constant) and the astrophysical understanding of variable star populations. The project foresees contributions to the data processing and analysis of data from the ESA Gaia mission and/or the 4-metre Multi-Object Spectroscopic Telescope (4MOST), among other data sets. Contributions to the VELOcities of CEpheids (VELOCE) program and the Wide-field Spectroscopic Telescope (WST) may also be possible.

Your profile

• Master’s or equivalent degree in physics or astronomy for admission to the doctoral program (completion required by starting date)
• Strong mathematical/statistical and analytical skills
• Experience with coding and data analysis, preferably including time-series and/or large data sets
• Prior experience in astronomical research is desirable
• Willingness to partake in the collection of astronomical observations
• Willingness to travel (inter-)nationally
• Collaborative attitude, communicative, and problem-solver mindset
• Very good command of the English language

What we offer

• Personalized supervision and disciplinary training
• Opportunities for conducting astronomical observations
• Funding for travel (conferences, observations) 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, 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.