Postdoctoral Researcher in Scientific Detectors (NIR and VIS)

The Leibniz Institute for Astrophysics Potsdam (AIP) is dedicated to astrophysical questions ranging from the study of our Sun to the evolution of the cosmos. Research focuses on cosmic magnetic fields and extragalactic astrophysics as well as the development of research technologies in the fields of spectroscopy, robotic telescopes and e-science. The AIP carries out its research mandate within the framework of numerous national, European and international cooperations. The institute is the successor to the Berlin Observatory, founded in 1700, and the Astrophysical Observatory Potsdam, founded in 1874, which was the first institute in the world to be explicitly dedicated to astrophysics. The AIP has been a member of the Leibniz Association since 1992. AIP is located in the middle of a beautiful park landscape in Potsdam, not far from Berlin, and has about 200 employees.

To strengthen Astrophotonics (innoFSPEC), we are looking for :

Postdoctoral Researcher in Scientific Detectors (NIR and VIS).

The researcher will undertake the development of scientific detectors for astronomical spectrographs, in particular, assemble detector ROICs (e.g for Large Saphira and H2RG), and in collaboration with Leibniz Institute for Innovative Microelectronics (IHP) develop photonic-chip to detector optics for operation in a cryogenic environment. The position offers the unique opportunity to assemble, integrate and test the astrophotonic instruments as per ESO standards, leading to first-light on-sky demonstrations and adjacent applications.

Your tasks:

1. Integration, assemble, and characterization of scientific detectors in astronomical instruments

2. Characterization of H2RG, Large Saphira, or similar detectors using ESO NGCII or Rosella ROIC

3. Explore adjacent applications through technology transfer

4. Support the research activities of PhD students and contribute to peer-reviewed publications, patents, and conference papers.

What you bring to the table:

Essential:

• PhD in astronomy, astrophysics, instrumentation, electronics or in related fields.

• Hands-on experience with scientific detectors and ROICs for astronomy (HgCdTe, eAPDs, etc.)

• Experience working in a clean room and handling sensitive electronics etc.

• A track record of scientific publications in peer-reviewed journals

• Excellent interpersonal and communication skill and ability to work as a member of a team.

• Demonstrated proficiency in communicating technical information, including written reports and oral presentations.

• Excellent proficiency in the English language. Basic German skills will be an advantage.

Desirable:

• Competent to submit proposals to funding agencies e.g., DFG, BMBF, H2020. ERC.

• Skills in Python, KLayout, LabView, MALTAB, Zemax, Quodoa or RSoft, will be an added advantage.

• Experience in building astronomical instruments

• Knowledge and experience building instruments as per ESO standards