Tenure-track scientist (m/f/d)

Aip; Potsdam; On-site; EUR 65,000 - 80,000; Full time

Job summary

AIP invites applications for a tenure-track scientist (m/f/d) in the field of Dwarf galaxies with a focus on the Magellanic Clouds. The successful candidate will develop an independent research programme that fits the group “Dwarf Galaxies and the Galactic Halo” led by Prof.

Maria-Rosa Cioni. Applicants should hold a Doctoral degree or equivalent and have post-doctoral experience with a proven track record in astronomy research, ideally on dwarf galaxies or the Magellanic Clouds.

Qualifications

• Doctoral degree or equivalent in Physics, Astronomy, or a related field.
• Post-doctoral research experience in astronomy is required or strongly preferred.
• Proven track record in astronomy research, preferably on dwarf galaxies or the Magellanic Clouds.

Responsibilities

• Develop an independent research programme aligned with the group scope.
• Attract external funding to support junior members and supervise undergraduate/graduate projects.
• Collaborate with the group and external facilities to advance the study of dwarf galaxies.

Skills

Post-doctoral experience

Independent research

Supervision of students

Education

Doctoral degree or equivalent in Physics/Astronomy

Job description

At the department of Galactic and Extragalactic Astrophysics, we are looking for

a Tenure-track scientist (m/f/d)

in the field of Dwarf galaxies with particular attention to the Magellanic Clouds. The successful applicant is expected to develop an independent research programme that well fits the scope of the Research group “Dwarf Galaxies and the Galactic Halo” led by Prof. Maria-Rosa Cioni. This includes the exploitation of data from space-based imaging (e.g. Euclid, Roman, HST/JWST) and large-scale spectroscopic (e.g. 4MOST, (Blue)MUSE, MOSAIC) facilities to study the assembly history and dynamical evolution of Dwarf galaxies. In particular, using resolved stellar populations of field and star clusters, in the Magellanic Clouds and their analogs.

The appointment will be for an initial period of five years, with a tenure review to be carried out in the 4th year of the appointment. The successful candidate must have a Doctoral degree or equivalent in Physics, Astronomy, or a related field as well as Post-doctoral research experience and a proven trackrecord in astronomy research, preferably on the subject of dwarf galaxies or the Magellanic Clouds. The candidate is expected to attract external funding to support junior members and act as supervisor of undergraduate and graduate research projects.

The AIP offers a modern working environment, spacious and well-equipped offices, travel support, an open collegial working atmosphere and good opportunities for internal and external training. Salary is based on professional experience and expertise following the German public service collective agreement (TV-L) with a pay grade of E14. Social benefits include health insurance, contributions to the German Pension Insurance and the company pension VBL, disability and survivors’ benefits as well as a subsidy for the public transport ticket. The position is suitable for part-time employment and the start date is foreseen for the summer or fall of 2027.

Equal opportunities are an integral part of staff and organisational development at the AIP; therefore, applications from all genders are equally welcome. People with disabilities will be given preferential consideration where they have the same professional qualifications and skills. Your application documents will be made available to a selection committee, relevant bodies and officials. They will also be kept for a period of at least three months following the conclusion of the recruitment process.

Applications received by 15th December 2026 will receive full consideration. However, applications received after this date may still be considered until the post is filled. In case of questions, please contact Prof. Cioni using the email address [e-mail].