Applications are invited for up to three postdoctoral research positions (Reference Number 328) in the Atmospheric Physics of Exoplanets (APEx) Department of the Max Planck Institute for Astronomy (MPIA), Heidelberg, Germany. APEx is a new department, founded in 2020 to characterize the atmospheric physics and chemistry of extrasolar planets.
The successful applicant/s will join the research groups of either Thomas Mikal-Evans or Laura Kreidberg to develop new tools for analyzing and/or interpreting transiting exoplanet data, including planned observations to be made with the James Webb Space Telescope. Applicants with backgrounds in all areas of astronomy, astrophysics, planetary science, and/or machine learning research are welcome to apply. We particularly encourage applications from:
- theorists with experience performing 3D general circulation model (GCM) simulations or retrieval analyses, or an interest in applying machine learning techniques with such tools to exoplanet data
- observers with experience in data analysis for transiting exoplanets (at high or low spectral resolution).
Our offer
The successful applicant/s will have access to state-of-the-art observing and computation facilities, including the LBT and ESO telescopes, local computing clusters at MPIA, as well as the high-performance computing clusters of the Max Planck Society. Generous allowances will be provided for personal computing equipment, relocation expenses, publication charges, and travel. The successful applicant/s will be free to devote up to 50% of their time to pursuing independent research projects.
The start date is anticipated to be during the northern hemisphere summer 2022, although a later start date (from October 1st 2022) is also possible. Appointments will be for a 3 + 1 year term with the final year awarded on successful performance. Remuneration will be on the German public sector scale (expected to be TVÖD, level E14) and depends on qualification and experience. Extensive social benefits are granted according to the regulations for public service.
Your profile
Prior experience in the field of exoplanets is not required, but candidates must have a PhD in astronomy, astrophysics, planetary science, machine learning, or related field by the position start date.
Your application
Candidates should provide the following in their application:
- cover letter (1-2 page)
- brief CV (max. 3 pages)
- publication list
- research statement (including past, current, and future research – max. 3 pages not inc. references)
Please concatenate all documents in the order listed above in a single pdf file. Please also arrange for 3 letters of reference to be provided separately (see below). All application materials are due by December 1st, 2021 and must be submitted using the online application system.
Any time before submission, candidates first need to register with the online system to generate a registration code, which should then be forwarded to referees for letter submission. For inquiries, please contact the chair of the search committee, Thomas Mikal-Evans (tmevans@mpia.de). For assistance in submitting the application, contact Carola Jordan (jordan@mpia.de).
The Max Planck Society is an equal opportunity employer and strives for a diverse community of employees. Applications from historically underrepresented or disadvantaged groups are particularly encouraged. The MPIA supports its employees in their search for suitable childcare. For questions concerning promoting equal opportunity for all employees and prospective employees at MPIA, please contact Thavisha Dharmawardena (dharmawardena@mpia.de). Regarding disabilities guidelines and regulations, please contact Ralf Launhardt (rl@mpia.de).