The Max Planck Institute for Astronomy (MPIA) in Heidelberg is seeking a number of post-doctoral researchers to pursue innovative research projects within the scientific context of the Galaxies and Cosmology department. Active research areas in the department include stellar populations and Galactic archaeology from spectroscopic surveys and the Gaia mission; dynamics, ISM, and star formation in nearby galaxies; galactic nuclei and AGN; the evolution of stars and gas in galaxies throughout cosmic history; theoretical aspects of galaxy formation and cosmology; the intergalactic medium and re-ionization history of the universe.
Field of work
The Galaxies and Cosmology department pursues a wide range of astrophysical research projects in the above topics, encompassing large observing programs, the analysis of large surveys, instrumentation development, and theoretical modeling and simulations. It also hosts a number of MPG, Humboldt, and ERC research groups. Candidates interested in all areas of astrophysics related to the above topics will be given full consideration.
MPIA researchers have privileged access to the twin 8.4m Large Binocular Telescope (LBT) in Arizona, the 2.2m MPG telescope on La Silla, the Calar Alto Observatory, and the IRAM millimeter facilities. MPIA astronomers make frequent use of all ESO facilities including the VLT and ALMA and have access to a range of computing resources. The Institute leads or is involved in a number of large science collaborations and surveys, and it plays a leading role in the data processing for Gaia and the preparations for Euclid
Your profile
Applicants should have a Ph.D. in astronomy, astrophysics, or a closely related field. Each appointment will be for an initial period of two years, with an expected extension for a third year.
Our offer
The starting dates are expected to be no later than autumn 2016, but earlier dates are possible. The MPIA provides a stimulating work environment plus funds for publications, computing, travel, etc. Remuneration will be on the German public sector scale (TVöD level E13/E14), and depends on qualification and experience. Social benefits are granted according to the regulations for public service. The institute supports its employees in their search for suitable child care.
Your application
The Max Planck Society is an equal opportunity employer. Applications from women, disabled people, and minority groups are particularly welcome.
Candidates should send a CV, publication list, and a brief statement of research interests by 1st December 2015, and arrange for three letters of reference to be provided separately by the same date. All applications and reference letters must be submitted using the online application system https://s-lotus.gwdg.de/mpg/mhas/gc_pd_15_12_in.nsf/portal.
Candidates should first register with the online system to generate a registration code, which should then be forwarded to referees for letter submission. The CV, publication list, and research statement must be concatenated into a single PDF file.
For inquiries, please contact the chair of the search committee, Dr. Coryn Bailer-Jones (calj@mpia.de), or any of the staff members in the Galaxies and Cosmology department.
Max Planck Institute for Astronomy
Königstuhl 17
69117 Heidelberg
This opportunity has expired. It was originally published here:
http://www.mpg.de/9399474/postdocs-astronomy