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Post-doctoral research positions (m/f/d) | High-Energy Astrophysics

Stellenangebot vom 28.06.2025

Applications are invited for one research position 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.

Post-doctoral research positions (m/f/d) – High-Energy Astrophysics

Job Code: 13/2025

Successful candidates 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.

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.

The full-time postdoc position is initially two years, with the possibility of further extension up to three years. Salaries will be paid at German civil service rates (TVöD-Bund) depending on experience.

Our offer

• A versatile, challenging and autonomous job in a dynamic and culturally stimulating international research environment in the development of satellite instrumentation.
• Interdisciplinary work in a team of experienced engineers and physicists.
• Needs-oriented training opportunities.
• Fair payment according to your qualifications and professional experience in accordance with the collective agreement for the public service (TVöD).
• Company pension scheme (VBL).
• Private accident insurance financed by the employer.
• Reduced rates for certain insurance policies.
• Family service at the Garching research campus.
• Underground station U6 directly in front of the institute.
• Free parking on the institute grounds.
• Canteen in the immediate vicinity.

Your application

Applicants should submit their documents (in English, and in PDF form) via our online application portal by 31st August 2025, 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.

Further details about MPE or the High-Energy group.

MPE is committed to equal opportunities and diversity. We welcome all applications regardless of gender, nationality, ethnic or social origin, religion or belief, disability, age, sexual orientation or identity. Family-friendly working conditions are a matter for us.

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.