Research associate (m/f/x) for the studies of groups and clusters of galaxies - PhD Position

Ruhr-Universität Bochum; Bochum; Vor Ort; EUR 50.000 - 60.000; Teilzeit

Zusammenfassung

A prestigious university in Germany is seeking a Research Associate (m/f/x) for a PhD position focused on the study of galaxy groups and clusters. The role involves analyzing radio astronomy data, engaging in outreach, and publishing scientific results. Applicants should hold a Bachelor's degree in physics, astronomy, or astrophysics, with desirable experience in radio astronomy and coding skills in Python. Flexible working options are available, and the position offers a stimulating international research environment.

Leistungen

Flexible working options

International work environment

Cultural offerings in the Ruhr area

Qualifikationen

• Bachelor’s degree in physics, astronomy or astrophysics required.
• Master’s degree in physics, astronomy or astrophysics preferred.
• Demonstrated experience in radio astronomy is desirable.

Aufgaben

• Study magnetic fields, cosmic rays and particle acceleration in galaxy groups.
• Analyze radio continuum and polarisation data of groups and clusters.
• Develop new proposals for scientific resources.

Kenntnisse

Understanding of the physics of galaxy clusters

Experience in radio astronomy

Proficient knowledge of English

Effective communication and presentation skills

Experience in multi-wavelength analysis of galaxy clusters

Ausbildung

Bachelor's degree in physics, astronomy or astrophysics

Master's degree in physics, astronomy or astrophysics

Tools

Python

Jobbeschreibung

Research associate (m/f/x) for the studies of groups and clusters of galaxies - PhD Position

The radio astronomy group at the Ruhr-Universität Bochum (RUB), led by Jun.-Prof. Christopher J. Riseley, is looking for a PhD student with a starting date of 1st September 2025. The position is open to candidates from any country. The group is involved in analysis of radio astronomy data from the Pathfinder and Precursor instruments for the Square Kilometre Array (SKA), in particular from large-area radio-wavelength imaging surveys such as the Evolutionary Map of the Universe (EMU) survey with the Australian SKA Pathfinder (ASKAP) and the LOFAR Two-metre Sky Survey (LoTSS). Scientifically, the group is engaged in research on a variety of astrophysical topics including galaxy evolution, groups and clusters of galaxies, star formation, cosmic rays, and magnetic fields in the Universe.

The successful candidate (m/f/x) will work on radio continuum and polarisation analysis of groups and/or clusters of galaxies selected from such large-area radio surveys, and uniting these radio observations with complementary multi-wavelength data in order to understand key physical processes at work in these environments. The successful candidate (m/f/x) will also have the opportunity to engage in science outreach if desired. The broader group at RUB provides a stimulating and international environment, with members from many different countries working in different fields.

• Scope: part-time (29.8725 hours/week = 75%)
• Duration: fixed-term, 3 years
• Start: 01.03.2026
• Apply by: 2026-01-05

Your tasks:

• Studies of magnetic fields, cosmic rays and particle acceleration in galaxy groups and/or clusters
• Analysis of radio continuum, polarisation, and complementary multi-wavelength observations of galaxy groups and clusters
• Developing new proposals for competitively-allocated scientific and/or technical resources
• Publication of scientific results in appropriate journals
• Presentation of results at the group and collaboration level, as well as national/international conferences
• Teaching

Your profile:

• Bachelor’s degree in physics, astronomy or astrophysics
• Master’s degree in physics, astronomy or astrophysics (desirable)
• Demonstrated understanding of the physics of galaxy clusters
• Demonstrated experience in radio astronomy (desirable)
• Experience in coding, preferentially in python (desirable)
• Proficient knowledge of English
• Effective communication and presentation skills
• Experience in multi-wavelength analysis of galaxy clusters and groups (desirable)
• Experience with scientific writing and publication of results
• Experience communicating scientific results to the public (desirable)
• Willingness to travel

We offer:

Challenging and varied tasks with a high level of independence, employment at one of the largest universities in Germany within the University Alliance Ruhr, options for flexible working (mobile working and teleworking), collaboration in a committed and appreciative team, a job in the heart of the lively Ruhr metropolitan region with its diverse cultural offerings.

Further information:

The position is salaried and based on the collective agreement of the Länder (TV‑L). If the personal and collective agreement requirements are met, the employee will receive pay grade E13 TV‑L.

Further information can be found at https://oeffentlicher-dienst.info/ (in German).

The place of work is Ruhr University Bochum. The load of teaching will be calculated according to § 3 of Lehrverpflichtungsverordnung (state of North Rhine‑Westphalia).

We are looking forward to receiving your application containing the following documents, combined into a single PDF file: CV (maximum 2 pages), statement of interest and previous experience addressing the research profile (maximum 2 pages), copies of Bachelor and/or Master thesis and transcript of records. German language courses are offered by the University Language Center (ZFA) in the field of German as a Foreign Language (DaF) (https://www.daf.ruhr-uni-bochum.de/sbgk/index.html.en). The Staff Council has the right to participate in all selection interviews. At the request of a candidate (m/f/x), it will ensure its participation in the entire procedure. Please contact [e-mail].

The Ruhr-Universität Bochum stands for diversity and equal opportunities. For this reason, we favour a working environment composed of heterogeneous teams, and seek to promote the careers of individuals who are underrepresented in our respective professional areas. The Ruhr-Universität Bochum expressly requests job applications from women. In areas in which they are underrepresented they will be given preference in the case of equivalent qualifications with male candidates. Applications from individuals with disabilities are most welcome.

Contact persons for further information:

Jun.-Prof. Dr. C. J. Riseley [phone]

Travel costs, accommodation costs and loss of earnings or other application costs for job interviews can unfortunately not be reimbursed.

We look forward to receiving your application via our online application portal by 2026-01-05. Please make sure to mention the reference number ANR 4733.

Online application