Research associate in Plasma Astrophysics

Physics World; Deutschland; Vor Ort; EUR 40.000 - 60.000; Vollzeit

Zusammenfassung

A leading research university in Germany seeks a postdoctoral researcher in plasma astrophysics starting June 1, 2026. The candidate will contribute to research in turbulence and magnetism in space. A PhD in Physics or Astronomy is required, with expertise in (GR)MHD and PIC simulations encouraged. Responsibilities include independent research and supporting students. Competitive salary and benefits are provided as per public service standards, with favorable working conditions and opportunities for further academic development.

Leistungen

Generous parental leave

State-subsidized childcare

Pension plan

Full medical care

Qualifikationen

• PhD in relevant field is mandatory.
• Expertise in plasma astrophysics and space physics is highly desirable.
• Social skills are expected alongside specialist skills.

Aufgaben

• Research in plasma astrophysics and independent course development.
• Support for master's and doctoral students.
• Opportunity for further academic qualification (Habilitation).

Kenntnisse

Expertise in plasma astrophysics/space physics

Experience with (GR)MHD and/or PIC simulations

Knowledge of interstellar and interplanetary turbulence

Ausbildung

PhD in Physics or Astronomy

Jobbeschreibung

The Faculty of Science, Institute for Physics & Astronomy of the University of Potsdam, invites applications for the following position, limited to three years. The position is available from June 1, 2026.

The Institute for Physics & Astronomy supports a broad range of research in observational and theoretical astrophysics. The postdoctoral researcher will contribute to an active research program in the field of plasma astrophysics, which includes topics from turbulence and magnetism in space and astrophysical environments, MHD/PIC simulations, particle transport and acceleration, and plasma instabilities.

The successful candidate will work 40 hours per week (100 %). The position is classified within remuneration group 13 of the collective wage agreement among the German states (TV-L). The fixed term of employment is in accordance with Section 2 subsection 1 of the German Act on Limited Scientific Contracts (Wissenschaftszeitvertragsgesetz or WissZeitVG). An extension is possible if personal and legal requirements are met. This position in the plasma astrophysics group is made available due to the joint position that Prof. Huirong Yan holds at the University of Potsdam and DESY. Strong ties with DESY(Deutsche Elektronen-Synchrotron) therefore are expected.

Responsibilities

Responsibly processing of research tasks and independent elaboration and performance of courses in the sector of Plasma Astrophysics are included. Attending to master's and doctoral students is self-evident. Further scientific qualification (post-doctoral thesis (Habilitation)) is possible. At least one-third of working hours is available for in-depth academic qualification.

Qualifications

PhD in Physics or Astronomy is required.

Applicants with expertise in plasma astrophysics/space physics, (GR)MHD and/or PIC simulations, interstellar and interplanetary turbulence, and cosmic ray physics are particularly encouraged to apply.

Beside the specialist skills, social skills are expected too.

What We Offer

As a university, we combine the developmental strength of a teaching and research institution with the attractive working conditions of the public sector. The University of Potsdam is a reliable employer that supports its employees with a variety of offers and benefits: You can find more information about working at the University of Potsdam at https://www.uni-potsdam.de/en/arbeiten-an-der-up/employer-up/overview.

The University of Potsdam values the diversity of its community and pursues the goals of equal opportunity regardless of gender, nationality, ethnic and social origin, religion/belief, disability, age, and sexual orientation and identity. Applications from abroad and from persons with an immigrant background are expressly encouraged. The university strives for a balanced gender ratio in all employment groups; in areas where women are underrepresented, women are given preference in case of equal suitability (Section 7 paragraph 4 of the Brandenburg Higher Education Act). People with disabilities are given preferential consideration in cases of equal qualifications. In aptitude tests and selection interviews, individual compensation measures for disadvantages are granted, taking the specific disability into consideration.

Compensation and Benefits

Salary and benefits are commensurate with those of public service organizations in Germany. Generous parental leave, state-subsidized childcare, pension, and full medical care are provided to employees at the University of Potsdam.

Application Details

Application documents should include a CV, a 3-4 page statement of current and future research interests, a list of publications, and the contact info of at least 3 references. The application should be sent to [e-mail] with the requisition number 379/2025.