PhD Position in Large-Scale Galaxy Clustering and Higher-Order Statistics at Ludwig-Maximilians-Universität München

PhD Position in Large-Scale Galaxy Clustering and Higher-Order Statistics at Ludwig-Maximilians-Universität München

We invite applications for a PhD position in observational and theoretical cosmology at the newly established Emmy Noether Research Group of Jiamin Hou at Ludwig-Maximilians-Universität München (LMU). The position is expected to start in April 2026, with flexibility.

Context:

The Emmy Noether group at LMU will focus on exploiting the next generation of galaxy surveys to study the large-scale structure of the Universe with unprecedented precision. We are particularly interested in developing and applying higher-order clustering statistics to extract cosmological information from ongoing and upcoming galaxy surveys. These methods will provide complementary constraints on cosmological parameters, tests of fundamental physics, and of signatures of early-Universe physics.

The successful candidate will contribute to the development and application of statistical tools to analyze galaxy clustering data from surveys such as DESI, Euclid, and Roman. Depending on interest and background, the work may include data analysis, modeling of cosmological signals, machine learning, and/or interpretation of results in the context of theoretical models.

Your Qualifications:

• You have completed, or are close to completing, an M.Sc. degree in physics, astronomy, cosmology, or a closely related field.
• You have prior research experience in at least one of the following areas: large-scale structure, cosmological data analysis, statistical methods in astrophysics, galaxy surveys, or related theoretical and computational fields.
• Experience with scientific programming (e.g. Python, C/C++, Julia, or similar) is an advantage.
• You are a team player, motivated to contribute within an international and collaborative research environment, and enthusiastic about learning new methods and developing independent research expertise.

What We Offer:

• A fully funded PhD position at LMU Munich within the Emmy Noether group of Jiamin Hou.
• Employment according to the German public service pay agreement, including health insurance, pension contributions, and other social security benefits.
• The opportunity to work at the forefront of cosmological research, with access to current and upcoming survey data (e.g., DESI, Euclid, Roman), and to collaborate with international survey teams.
• Optional participation in the structured graduate school program of the International Max Planck Research School (IMPRS), run jointly by LMU, the Max Planck Institutes for Astrophysics and Extraterrestrial Physics, and the European Southern Observatory.
• A supportive mentorship environment with opportunities for research visits, conference travel, and networking within the international cosmology community.