Tenure-track scientist (m/f/d)
The Leibniz Institute for Astrophysics Potsdam (AIP) is dedicated to astrophysical questions ranging from the study of our Sun to the evolution of the cosmos. The research focuses on the area of stars, the Sun and exoplanets, galactic and extragalactic astrophysics, and cosmology. A significant share of the work involves research and development in the area of astrophysical spectroscopy, astrophotonics and the research data infrastructure. The AIP fulfils its research mission through 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 devote itself expressly to astrophysics. Since 1992, the AIP has been a member of the Leibniz Association. Around 200 people work at our institute, set in a beautiful park landscape in Potsdam, not far from Berlin.
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.
To apply for this position, please submit a cover letter, a curriculum vitae including a list of publications, a research statement including future research directions (max. 3 pages), plus the names and contact details of three potential reference letter writers. Letter writers will be requested to upload their recommendation only for candidates that advance to the second stage of the selection process. Please use the AIP job Application Portal to submit your application: https://jobs1.aip.de/rec101.
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 bewerbung-2026-08@aip.de.