Postdoc Position (f/m/x) Exoplanet atmospheres – links to observations - 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 – links to observations

(full-time, 40h per week)

The successful candidate will be part of Prof Christiane Helling’s research group Exoplanets: Weather & Climate (Complex Atmosphere Modelling) at the Space Research Institute (IWF) Graz. Our work is focused on fundamental research to understand the cloud and gas-phase chemistry in the diversity of extrasolar planets, and in modelling their 3D climate and weather behaviour in order to physically interpret observational data as for example from present space missions like JWST and CHEOPS and in the future, e.g., PLATO, Ariel, NEWATHENA, HWO.

Your tasks:

• 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.

Your profile:

• PhD in the relevant fields of astrophysics
• Experiences in interpreting ground based and space instrumentation data
• Experiences in 3D retrieval, polarimetry and/or gas-cloud radiative transfer modelling
• Experiences in scientific programming and publishing

The appointment begins as early as June 01st , 2024 and will be for 2+1 years initially. A later starting date is also possible. We offer an annual gross salary of € 66.501,40 according to the collective agreement of the Austrian Academy of Sciences. Included are various social benefits.

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 (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: IWF153PD123, to cosima.muck@oeaw.ac.at by May 15th, 2024. Inquiries about the position should be directed to Prof Christiane Helling.

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