The Max Planck Institute for Astronomy (MPIA) in Heidelberg is seeking a dedicated and highly qualified postdoctoral researcher with observational or/and theoretical backgrounds to work in planet formation, astrochemistry and/or protoplanetary disk science. The Planet and Star Formation Department at MPIA is pursuing a wide range of astrophysical research, encompassing large observing programs in planet and star formation as well as exoplanet search, instrumentation development, theoretical modeling, and laboratory astrophysics. A number of exciting research opportunities are available at MPIA. MPIA astronomers have preferential access to the Very Large Telescope (VLT), the 2.2m MPG telescope on La Silla, the IRAM facilities and the APEX sub-millimeter telescope in Chile. MPIA is part of the VLT/SPHERE, VLTI/MATISSE, VLTI/GRAVITY and JWST/MIRI consortia and is strongly involved in the design and preparation for ELT instruments MICADO and METIS.

Your tasks

Postdoctoral researchers are expected to participate in ongoing research projects and to develop independent research related to planet formation, astrochemistry and/or protoplanetary disk science in the broad framework of research in the Planet and Star Formation Department.

Your profile

Applicants should have a PhD in astronomy, astrophysics, physics, chemistry or a closely related field.

Our offer

Appointments are anticipated for an initial period of three years. The remuneration is based on the German collective wage agreement for the public sector (TVöD) depending on qualification and experience in level E14. Social benefits are granted according to the regulations for public service. There is flexibility in starting dates, with preference for starting dates after mid-2026.

Your application

Interested candidates should provide the following in their application. Please upload all documents in one pdf file (max. 10 MB):

• cover letter (1 page)
• brief CV (max. 3 pages)
• publication list
• brief research statement (including past, current, and future research – max. 3 pages not inc. references)

Please also arrange for three letters of reference to be provided separately (further details will be provided once
registered in the online application portal).

All application materials are due by 15^th November 2025 and must be submitted using the online application portal.
For inquiries, please contact Myriam Benisty.
For assistance in submitting the application, contact Susanna Pohl.

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. 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. 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, or Ralf Launhardt for support regarding colleagues with severe disabilities.