Postdoctoral Research Position (m/f/d) in X-ray astronomy
The Leibniz Institute for Astrophysics Potsdam (AIP) is dedicated to astrophysical questions ranging from the study of our sun to the development of the cosmos. Research focuses on cosmic magnetic fields and extragalactic astrophysics as well as the development of research technologies in the fields of spectroscopy, robotic telescopes and e-science. The AIP carries out its research mission within the framework of numerous national, European and international collaborations. The institute is the successor to the Berlin Observatory, founded in 1700, and the Astrophysical Observatory Potsdam, founded in 1874, which was the first institute in the world to dedicate itself explicitly to astrophysics. The AIP has been a member of the Leibniz Association since 1992. Around 200 employees work at our location in the middle of a beautiful park landscape in Potsdam, not far from Berlin.
The X-ray group at the AIP invites applications for a
Postdoctoral Research Position (m/f/d) in X-ray astronomy
Overview
The successful candidate will reduce, analyze, and publish X-ray and UV data gathered as part of a large combined XMM-Newton and SDSS-V program of variable AGN, led by Dr. Mirko Krumpe. SDSS-V is a pioneering survey providing systematic, massive and repeated spectroscopic monitoring across the whole sky. SDSS data allow for the systematic identification of so-called changing-look AGN, and we are able to detect them as they are transitioning. Our ToO XMM-Newton/Swift program is adding the X-ray and UV-view for selected objects. The combined X-ray, UV, and optical data will allow us to explore how the X-ray corona, accretion disk, and broad-line region respond to a sudden major change in accretion rate.
Qualifications and position
We encourage applications from scientists (holding a PhD degree in astrophysics or a related field) with experience in reducing X-ray data (e.g., XMM, Swift) and analysis of X-ray data with tools like XSPEC and/or BXA. The following additional skills will be advantageous for the position: experience with UV & optical imaging, experience with optical spectroscopy and its data reduction, and knowledge in the area of changing-look AGN. In addition, experience with programming (e.g., in Python) and advanced reading/writing in English are desirable. Candidates should have demonstrated they can work independently and that they are able to rapidly publish based on new datasets.
We aim to fill this position as soon as possible, with the latest starting time in early 2026. The position is initially limited to 18 months, with the potential for extension depending on availability of additional funding.
Conditions
Salary and benefits are attractive and commensurate with those of public service organizations in Germany at the TV-L level E13. The position includes a travel budget and the option of becoming a member of the German eROSITA team. Employer contributions to medical and dental insurance, parental leave, and retirement benefits are included.
Applications
Applications for the postdoctoral position should be submitted to the following email:
Please send a single PDF file containing: a cover letter, a statement of research interests and experience (max 2 pages), a curriculum vitae including a publication list, PhD degree certificate, and a link to your PhD work/papers. Candidates are asked to provide contact details for three potential referees in their CV. Reference letters should be submitted only upon request. Applications received by October 29, 2025 will be given full consideration. Later applications might be considered until the position is filled. Inquiries about the position should be sent to Dr. Mirko Krumpe (mkrumpe@aip.de).
Equal opportunities are an integral part of personnel and organizational development at the AIP. Therefore, the AIP values diversity and particularly encourages women and other underrepresented groups to apply. People with disabilities will be given preferential consideration if they are equally qualified and skilled. The AIP values and promotes a respectful and tolerant working atmosphere. It has therefore adopted a Code of Conduct.
Your application documents will be kept for at least three months after completion of the appointment process. As a rule, your documents will be made available to a selection committee and to the committees and officers to be involved.