Astrochemistry Postdoctoral positions (m/f/d) | Nanoparticle Experiment

1000scholars; Garching bei München; On-site; EUR 55,000 - 75,000; Full time

Job summary

Max Planck Institute for Extraterrestrial Physics (MPE) in Garching, Bavaria, invites applications for an Astrochemistry Postdoctoral position focused on Nanoparticle Mass Spectrometry (NPMS) experiments. The role centers on advancing the SRET trap setup within the CAS department for astrochemical studies.

The candidate should have a PhD in physics or chemistry, with hands-on experience in vacuum systems, lasers, data acquisition, and nanoparticle sources.

Qualifications

• PhD completed in physics, chemistry, or a related field before starting.
• Experience with ultra-high vacuum systems and workshops collaboration.
• Background in laser systems and light collection is required.
• Knowledge of data acquisition, programming (Python/C) and LabVIEW is preferred.
• Familiarity with NPMS, RF traps, or related mass spectrometry setups is desirable.

Responsibilities

• Build SRET into a viable experimental setup for astrochemical research.
• Develop hardware, user control systems, and measurement protocols.
• Work independently and collaborate with CAS and engineering teams.

Skills

Vacuum systems

Laser light systems

Data acquisition design

Nanoparticle sources

RF ion traps / NPMS traps

Education

PhD in physics or chemistry

Tools

Python

C

LabVIEW

Job description

Astrochemistry Postdoctoral positions (m/f/d) | Nanoparticle Experiment Scientist

Location: Garching

Discipline: Astronomy & Astrophysics

Job Code: 16/2026

Job Offer from: August 12, 2026

About the Institute

The Max Planck Institute for Extraterrestrial Physics (MPE) in Garching (Bavaria, Germany) is a world-leading institute in space- and ground-based experimental astrophysics, with leading roles in several large astronomical projects.

Position Overview

The Center for Astrochemical Studies (CAS) at the MPE invites applications for an Astrochemistry Postdoctoral position on Nanoparticle Experiment. The position is specifically targeted at Nano-Particle Mass Spectrometry (NPMS) and its experimental development on the SRET (Split-Ring Electrode Trap) setup at the CAS department.

Requirements & Experience

• Ultra-high vacuum systems (design, construction, day-to-day collaboration with the mechanical engineering department/ workshops);
• Light systems - lasers (visible, CW) and reflected light collection;
• Data acquisition systems: design, construction (day-to-day collaboration with the electronic engineering department/workshops), and programming (Python, C preferred; LabVIEW acceptable);
• Nanoparticle sources (at least one of: mechanical/ electro acoustic, ESI);
• Radio-frequency ion traps, charged dust traps, or NPMS traps. The SRET trap setup, in its current state, has been vacuum- and cryo-tested down to 10 K, but still needs significant work to be usable for well-defined, repeatable scientific experiments.

Main Responsibilities

The main task of the candidate will be to build SRET into a viable setup for scientific experiments of astrophysical relevance, from the hardware through the user control system up to the development of measurement protocols. Therefore, only highly motivated candidates with demonstrable experience in points 1-5 and willingness to work independently can be considered.

About CAS

CAS hosts experimentalists, observers, and theoreticians who investigate together the chemical and physical evolution of the interstellar medium and star-and-planet-forming regions, from clouds to disks, with links to exoplanets and our Solar System.

Start Date

The start date is expected to be January 1st, 2027, or later, with a 3-year guarantee, subject to extension for up to five years.

Qualification

Applicants should have a PhD in physics, chemistry, or a related field before starting.

Salary

Salaries will be paid according to pay group E14 of the German public service pay scale (TVöD Bund), with the individual salary level depending on relevant postdoctoral experience.

Application Deadline

• September 15th, 2026
• October 15th, 2026

Equal Opportunity and Diversity Statement

The Max Planck Society is committed to increasing the number of individuals with disabilities in its workforce and to encouraging applications from such qualified individuals. The Max Planck Society aims to increase the number of women in areas where they are underrepresented and encourages women to apply. The Max Planck Society seeks to increase diversity and equality of opportunity in all respects and welcomes applications regardless of nationality, ethnicity, disability, religion, gender, gender identity or expression, or sexual orientation.