The Max Planck Institute for Solar System Research (MPS) invites applications for PhD and postdoctoral positions in solar and stellar physics. The successful candidates will join the SOLVe project based on an ERC Starting Grant and led by Alexander Shapiro. SOLVe will utilize state-of-the-art MHD and radiative transfer codes to extend physics-based models of solar brightness variations from the Sun to other stars. Building on the solar paradigm the project aims at explaining rich patterns of stellar brightness variations observed by the Kepler and CoRoT missions and at improving techniques for detecting and characterizing exoplanets. Furthermore, SOLVe is expected to improve our understanding of solar brightness variability which is relevant for assessing the role of the Sun in climate change.
The project will reside in the solar department of the MPS, one of the largest groups in solar physics worldwide with ample experience in MHD simulations and radiative transfer as well as with leading participations in many major solar space missions. The institute is located in Göttingen (Germany), a lively and scenic university town, in a striking new building.
PhD Positions. PhD projects can be more theory or data oriented, depending on the candidate profile. Please apply via the International Max Planck Research School for Solar System Science online application portal (https://www.mps.mpg.de/phd/applynow), indicating “ERC SOLVe” as funding line in your online application. The deadline for applications is 15 November 2016.
Postdoc Positions. Applicants must hold a Ph.D. in physics with focus on solar/stellar physics, astronomy, astrophysics or a closely related field. They should have an outstanding research record and experience in solar or stellar physics. Experience in MHD simulations and/or numerical radiative transfer modeling is of particular advantage. The positions are available as early as 1 February 2017 or later and are offered for initial period of two years. Salary will be according to E13 of the TVöD scale of the German public service. Applications, including a CV, a short description of past research activities (max. 3 pages), and a publication list should be sent as one pdf file to pds@mps.mpg.de. In addition, applicants should arrange to have three letters of reference sent separately to the same address. Review of applications will begin 15 November 2016 and continue until positions are filled.
The Max Planck Society is an equal opportunity employer and particularly encourages applications from women. The Max Planck Society is committed to employing more handicapped individuals and especially encourages them to apply. For further information please contact Alexander Shapiro (shapiroa at mps.mpg.de) or Johannes Stecker (stecker at mps.mpg.de).