We invite applications for multiple postdoctoral fellowships at the Max Planck Institute for Astronomy in Heidelberg, Germany  including independent fellows and project-based postdocs (listed below). The successful candidate(s) will be hosted by the Atmospheric Physics of Exoplanets (APEx) Department and take part in the Max Planck Postdoc Program. The department’s research covers a broad range of topics in exoplanet characterization, including the chemical composition, thermal structure, and dynamics of gaseous planetary atmospheres; the formation and properties of clouds and hazes; the search for atmospheres on rocky planets; the internal structure and bulk composition of gas giants; planet detection and orbital dynamics; and the characterization of exoplanet host stars. APEx is also a partner in the construction of several new instruments over the coming decade, including VLTI/GRAVITY+, ELT/METIS, and ELT/ANDES. More information on our research activities and scientific staff.

We anticipate offering positions on the following topics:

• APEx Prize Postdoctoral Fellowship, for independent research on exoplanet characterization (3+1 years, with extension based on successful performance).
• Studying the range of atmospheric dynamics in giant planets, from (ultra) hot Jupiters to more weakly irradiated planets that may be eccentric and not tidally locked, to isolated planets, using GCMs. This is a senior postdoctoral position that includes the possibility to pursue independent projects (3+2 years, with extension based on successful performance).
• Characterizing the atmospheric composition of directly imaged planets and brown dwarfs using medium/high-resolution spectroscopy at a population level; developing high-resolution observation and analysis techniques to reveal 3D structure and atmospheric dynamics of gas giants (3 years).
• Observations of transiting exoplanets with JWST: data analysis with a focus on multi-wavelength observations or atmospheric modelling of sub-Neptunes and gas giants (3 years).
• Developing next-generation techniques for atmospheric characterization through retrievals with machine learning, including techniques such as simulation-based inference or attention-based emulators (3 years).
• Measurements of thermal emission from rocky exoplanets with JWST, or theoretical modeling related to the circulation, outgassing, and/or escape of secondary atmospheres (3 years).

Included benefits

Successful applicants will have support for travel, publications, and high-performance computing through the Max Planck Computing and Data Facility. Resources are also available for career development, networking and mentoring.

Remuneration will be on the German public sector scale (expected to be TVoeD level E14), and depends on qualification and experience. Extensive social benefits are granted according to the regulations for public service. We also provide a canteen, support for work-life balance, including assistance with finding childcare facilities and housing if needed, discounted access to public transportation, and reduced rates for certain insurance policies.

How to apply

Candidates should provide a cover letter indicating the position(s) of interest, a CV and publication list, a statement of previous research (up to three pages), and for candidates interested in the Prize Fellowship, a proposed research plan (up to five pages). Please upload all documents in pdf format. Please also arrange for three letters of reference to be provided separately.

All application materials are due by October 13, 2025 and should be submitted in the MPG Postdoc Program application portal.

The Max Planck Society is an equal opportunity employer, committed to gender equality and diversity in its workforce. We particularly encourage applications from historically underrepresented or disadvantaged groups. The Max Planck Society is also dedicated to increasing the number of employees with disabilities and welcomes applications from such qualified individuals. If you have any questions about equal opportunities, please contact the Equal Opportunity Officer (equality@mpia.de), or Ralf Launhardt (rl@mpia.de) for support regarding colleagues with severe disabilities.

Applicants should have a PhD in astronomy or a closely related field. The start date is flexible, but ideally no later than September 2026.

Link to online application

https://postdocprogram.mpg.de/node/21088

Inquiries contact

Carola Jordan
jordan@mpia.de