Postdoctoral Position (m/f/x) in Intensity Mapping and Machine Learning at the MPIfR in Bonn, G ...

The Max Planck Institute for Radio Astronomy (MPIfR) is the leading radio astronomical institute in Germany. It operates the APEX submm telescope in Chile, the 100-m radio telescope in Effelsberg , the LOFAR DE1 station, a state-of-the-art VLBI correlator, and radio/submm instrument technology laboratories. MPIfR is also a partner in MeerKAT and leads the German SKA efforts. Between MPIfR and the neighbouring universities, the Bonn/Cologne area is a major hub of research activity with a particular focus on (sub)mm/radio astronomy and the study of star formation, radio transients and cosmology.

Postdoctoral Position (m/f/x) in Intensity Mapping and Machine Learning at the MPIfR in Bonn, Germany

The MPIfR is recruiting a postdoctoral researcher to join the new research group of Prof. Jonathan Pritchard. The scientific focus of the group is radio cosmology and machine learning, in particular the combination of intensity mapping in 21 cm and other atomic lines, with CMB and other large surveys, to learn about the epoch of reionization, cosmic dawn, and cosmology.

Your tasks

The successful candidate will have scientific interests, qualification and skills matching these aims. They will be expected to conduct a dynamic research program targeting these core scientific objectives, in collaboration with Prof. Pritchard.

As part of this research, the selected candidates will be expected to take part in the project-based efforts of the group, with themes including:

1. Statistical inference of cosmology & astrophysics from 21cm intensity maps with SKA
2. Joint simulation and modelling for line intensity mapping and 21cm experiments
3. Development of novel machine learning techniques for intensity mapping experiments

We expect

Necessary criteria:

• A PhD in physics, astronomy or a related field by the appointment date
• A good proficiency in scientific writing supported by previously written research articles/thesis/etc.
• Experience in programming, modifying, and testing numerical software
• Experience with research in cosmology or astrophysics

Desirable criteria (one or more of):

• Experience with research in 21cm cosmology, intensity mapping or reionization
• Experience working with machine learning/data science techniques

We offer

The initial appointment is for two years with the possibility of further extension for one year after review. The preferred start date is 1 October 2025, but this is open to discussion. Dedicated funds will be made available for the postdoc to present their work in national and international conferences. Remuneration is within the framework of the German wage agreement for the public service (TVöD-Bund) in level 13, which includes comprehensive healthcare coverage and social benefits.

Application process

Interested and qualified individuals are encouraged to apply by submitting the following:

• curriculum vitae
• list of publications
• research statement

Arrange to have at least two letters of recommendation sent to

The Max Planck Society is committed to increasing the number of individuals with disabilities in its workforce and therefore encourages applications from such qualified individuals. Furthermore, the Max Planck Society seeks to increase the number of women in areas where they are underrepresented and therefore explicitly encourages women to apply.

Please submit your application and arrange for reference letters by Jan 27, 2025.

Contact information

For scientific enquiries about the position: Prof. Dr. Jonathan Pritchard

For queries about the application process: