Research Positions (m/f/d) | High-Energy Astrophysics

Applications are invited for one or more research positions in the High-Energy astrophysics group of the Max-Planck-Institute for Extraterrestrial Physics (MPE) in Garching, led by Prof. K. Nandra. MPE is a world-leading institute in space- and ground-based experimental astrophysics, with leading roles in a number of large astronomical projects. The high-energy group carries out major space hardware activities in support of its astrophysics research program, including the development of X-ray detectors and X-ray optics. The group has contributed significantly to missions such as Chandra and XMM–Newton and led the development of the eROSITA X-ray telescope. eROSITA launched in 2019 aboard the SRG satellite. MPE is also a partner in Einstein Probe, a mission of the Chinese academy of Science successfully launched in early 2024 and is a leading institute in ESA’s future NewAthena X-ray observatory. The group is involved in a number of ground-based projects, including GROND, SDSS-V, VISTA/4MOST and VRO/LSST, mostly in support of our space programs.

Successful candidates (f/m/d) will be expected to undertake a program of research in one of the main areas of interest of the MPE high energy astrophysics group, which include clusters of galaxies and cosmology, supermassive black hole evolution, accreting compact objects, high energy transients and the hot phases of the interstellar, circum-galactic, and intergalactic media. Candidates whose primary interest is in clusters of galaxies may wish to consider applying to the following related opportunity at MPE.

Research programs should be mainly focused on the exploitation of the eROSITA all-sky survey and/or the Einstein Probe X-ray data, as well as their multi-wavelength follow-up.

Applicants must have Ph.D. in astronomy or astrophysics, or expect to obtain their Ph.D. in the immediate future. Experience and a track record of publications relevant to the research of the MPE High-Energy group is essential. Familiarity with X-ray data analysis and/or interpretation would be desirable.

Postdoc appointments will be for 2 years, with the possibility of extension to 3 years. Salaries will be paid at German civil service rates (TVöD-Bund) depending on postdoctoral experience.

Applicants should submit their documents (in English, and in PDF form) via our application portal online, by November 29, 2024, including a cover letter, a curriculum vitae, a list of publications, a brief (~1 page) description of research interests and the names of three referees that can provide letters of reference upon request. Informal enquiries about the position may be addressed to Dr. Andrea Merloni or Prof. Kirpal Nandra.

For further details about MPE or the High-Energy group. 

The Max Planck Society is committed to increasing the number of individuals with disabilities in its workforce and therefore encourages applications from such qualified individuals. Furthermore, the Max Planck Society seeks to increase the number of women in those areas where they are underrepresented and therefore explicitly encourages women to apply. MPE wishes to increase diversity and equality of opportunity in all respects and welcomes applications without regard to factors such as nationality, ethnicity, disability, religion, gender, gender identity or expression, or sexual orientation.