Research associate in Plasma Astrophysics

For our location in Zeuthen we are seeking:

Research associate in Plasma Astrophysics

Limited: 3 years | Starting date: 01.10.2025 | ID: APPO015/2024 | Deadline: 27.11.2024 | Full-time/Part-time

DESY, with more than 2900 employees at its two locations in Hamburg and Zeuthen, is one of the world's leading research centres. Its research focuses on decoding the structure and function of matter, from the smallest particles of the universe to the building blocks of life. In this way, DESY contributes to solving the major questions and urgent challenges facing science, society and industry. With its ultramodern research infrastructure, its interdisciplinary research platforms and its international networks, DESY offers a highly attractive working environment in the fields of science, technology and administration as well as for the education of highly qualified young scientists.

Applications are invited for a research associate to work in the plasma astrophysics group. The position is available from Oct 1st, 2025. The initial appointment will be for three years. The postdoctoral researcher will contribute to an active research program in the field of plasma astrophysics, which include topics from turbulence in space and astrophysical environment, MHD/PIC simulations, particle transport and acceleration, plasma instabilities.

About your role:

We are particularly interested in scientists working in any of the following areas:

• MHD simulations
• Turbulence
• PIC simulations
• Particle transport and/or acceleration processes

About you:

• Ph.D. in physics or astronomy
• Experience with numerical studies (MHD/PIC) of plasma processes or modeling/​analysis of particle transport process in space/​astro plasma
• Good teamwork spirit
• Applications should include a CV, a statement of research, a list of publications, and the names and contact info of at least 3 references

Good reasons to join:

Look forward to a unique working environment on our international research campus. Respectful cooperation and the well-being of our DESY employees are particularly important to us. Gender equality is an important aspect for us. To support work‑life balance we offer flexible working hours, variable part-time, job-sharing models and participation in mobile work (up to 50 %). You will benefit from our family-friendly and collegial atmosphere, our established health management and occupational pension provision. As a public funded employer, we offer you a secure workplace and facilitate your individual career with our comprehensive training and development opportunities. Remuneration is according to the regulations of the TV‑AVH. DESY offers its employees a financial supplement for a German job ticket (Deutschland-Ticket) at both locations.

For further information please contact Prof. Huirong Yan at +49 331 977-2178 ([email protected]).

Please submit your complete application documents (letter of motivation and research interests, CV, list of publications, relevant certificates and three letters of references). Please use our online tool for the submission of the letters of reference: Additional application documents

We look forward to receiving your application via our application portal:

DESY promotes equal opportunities and diversity. The professional development of women is very important to us and therefore we strongly encourage women to apply for the vacant position.
Applications from severely disabled persons will be given preference if they are equally qualified (sbv.desy.de).

You can find further information here:
https://www.desy.de/career

Deutsches Elektronen-Synchrotron DESY
Human Resources Department | Notkestraße 85 | 22607 Hamburg
Phone: +49 40 8998-3392