Applications are invited for the position of a postdoctoral position at the Kiepenheuer-Institut für Sonnenphysik in Freiburg, Germany, available from May 1, 2018.
The candidate will be working on the QUEST-project (QUiet-sun Event STatistics), a junior research group funded by the Leibniz association and led by Dr. Catherine Fischer. A PhD student will join the group during the project duration.
This project will characterize the quiet-sun magnetic field by studying observational signatures of events such as for example flux cancelation, convective collapse and granular buffeting of magnetic elements. Taking advantage of multi-instrument data sets and building up statistics of these events by correlating the changes of physical parameters will provide a comprehensive picture of these processes from the photosphere to the higher solar atmosphere. The project will thereby fully exploit the available multi-instrument data of the Hinode telescope and the SDO, IRIS, the current high-resolution data from GREGOR as well as the DKIST coming online in 2020.
KIS is a foundation of public law of the State of Baden-Württemberg and a member of the Leibniz Association. Its mission is to perform fundamental astrophysical research with an emphasis on solar physics. Current research foci include the magnetized solar atmosphere, global magnetic activity in the sun and stars, and high resolution techniques. Further information can be obtained via the web page of the Institute (http://www.leibniz-kis.de).
Applicants should have a PhD in astrophysics and a record of research in astrophysics, preferentially in the area of solar physics. Ideally candidates will be fluent in the programming languages Python and IDL.
KIS is committed to be a workplace free from discrimination, with equal opportunities for all. We therefore encourage qualified women to apply. The contract can be for a period of up to 3 years (if performance is adequate). The salary scale will be in accordance with the TV-L E-13 level of the German public employees and includes contributions to a pension plan as well as health and unemployment insurances. In addition KIS can provide child and kindergarten allowances, discounts on public transport fares and an end-of-year bonus.
The application should include a curriculum vitae, a list of publications, a cover letter in the context of the QUEST project, and a short statement on past and envisioned research. Please arrange for two reference letters to be sent directly by the referees to the email addresses below. The selection of candidates will start after February 15, 2018 until the position is filled. Please send your application via email to Ms. Judith Blank: judith.blank(at)leibniz-kis.de and cfischer(at)leibniz-kis.de in CC with the keyword ‘QUEST’ in the email subject. Questions regarding the position should be sent to Catherine Fischer at cfischer(at)leibniz-kis.de.