Postdoc Position (f/m/x) - IWF

The Space Research Institute (IWF) with about 100 employees from twenty nations, is one of the largest institutes of the Austrian Academy of Sciences (OeAW). The institute is located in the Victor Franz Hess Research Center of the OeAW in the south of Graz and hosts eight research groups on the astrophysics of the solar system, exoplanets, and space instrumentation. The IWF also operates a world-leading satellite laser ranging station at the Lustbühel Observatory. The Space Research Institute in Graz invites applications for a

POSTDOC POSITION (F/M/X)

Exoplanet atmospheres science

(full-time, 40h per week)

The successful candidate will be part of Prof Christiane Helling’s research group Exoplanets: Weather & Climate at the Space Research Institute (IWF) Graz. We are interested in understanding the cloud and photo-kinetic gasphase chemistry in the diversity of extrasolar planets that orbit different host stars and in modelling their 3D climate and weather development. We also explore the potential of machine learning within our modelling approaches. Our modelling efforts support JWST and CHEOPS in physically interpreting observational data. We contribute to science case studies and science preparation for PLATO, the high-energy space mission NewATHENA as well as HWO.

• Link complex modelling results (e.g., 3D atmospheres, cloud modelling) to observations.

• Scientific data interpretation (e.g., CHEOPS, JWST) and preparation for PLATO, Ariel, JWST and other future missions based on 3D GCM results.

• Publication and support in proposal writing activities.

• Bring your own twist.

• Necessary to have:

  • PhD in astrophysics, solar system science, geosciences or physics.

• Beneficial to have:

  • Experiences in interpreting ground based and space instrumentation data.

  • Experiences in atmosphere and radiative transfer modelling

  • Experiences in scientific programming and publishing.

The appointment can begin January 01st, 2025 or earlier; the starting date is negotiable. The post will be for 2 years initially but can be extended up to 6 years. We offer an annual gross salary of € 66.501,40 according to the collective agreement of the Austrian Academy of Sciences. Included are social benefits and health insurance.

Applications must include a cover letter in addition to (1) curriculum vitae, (2) list of publications, (3) statement of the applicant's research experience (max 2 page) and a research plan with links to the institute’s research (max 1 pages), (4) certificates for full academic record, and (5) two references letters. Please send the application in one PDF file, mentioning Job ID: IWF115PD124, to cosima.muck@oeaw.ac.at latest by September 30th, 2024. Inquiries about the position should be directed to Prof Christiane Helling.

The Austrian Academy of Sciences (OeAW) pursues a non-discriminatory employment policy and values equal opportunities, as well as diversity. Individuals from underrepresented groups are particularly encouraged to apply.