Postdoctoral Fellowship Positions in Exoplanet Science in the Planet & Star Formation (PSF) department

The Max Planck Institute for Astronomy (MPIA) in Heidelberg is seeking a dedicated and highly qualified postdoctoral researcher with an observational background in exoplanet science, particularly in the areas of radial velocity, astrometry, or direct imaging. The Planet and Star Formation Department (https://www.mpia.de/en/psf) at MPIA is pursuing a wide range of astrophysical research. This includes major observational programs focused on exoplanet detection and characterization, as well as studies of planet and star formation, development of advanced instrumentation, theoretical modeling, and laboratory astrophysics.

A number of exciting research opportunities are available at MPIA. The successful candidate will have access to the WINE and NACO/RV Survey, contribute to the Second Earth Project and ongoing direct imaging projects.  In addition, MPIA astronomers have preferential access to the Very Large Telescope (VLT), the 2.2m MPG telescope on La Silla, the IRAM facilities and the APEX sub-millimeter telescope in Chile. MPIA is part of the VLT/SPHERE, VLTI/MATISSE, VLTI/GRAVITY and JWST/MIRI consortia and is strongly involved in the design and preparation for ELT instruments MICADO and METIS.

Your Tasks

Postdoctoral researchers are expected to participate in ongoing research projects and to develop independent research related to exoplanet science.

Your Profile

Applicants should have a PhD in astronomy, astrophysics, physics, chemistry or a closely related field.

Our offer

Appointments are anticipated for an initial period of three years. The remuneration is based on the German collective wage agreement for the public sector (TVöD) depending on qualification and experience in level E14. Social benefits are granted according to the regulations for public service. There is flexibility in starting dates, with preference for starting dates after mid-2026.