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  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 position as

POSTDOC (F/M/X) in exoplanet atmospheres science 

 (Vollzeit)

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 gas- phase 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.

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
• Bring your own twist

Your profile: 

• 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 scientific programming and publishing
  - Experiences in atmosphere and radiative transfer modelling

Our Offer

•  A position in an innovative and internationally active environment crucial to succes
• Numerous voluntary social benefits and health insurance
• a position initially for 2 years which can be extended up to 6 year
• An annual gross salary of € 69.028,40 according to the collective agreement of the Austrian Academy of Sciences

Please apply online including 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 apply online including 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 no later than March 12, 2025.  

Start date of the position: May 01, 2025 or earlier; the starting date is negotiable

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.