Project Scientist (m/f/d) for Wide Field Imager Instrument for NewAthena X-ray Observatory

Project Scientist (m/f/d) for Wide Field Imager Instrument for NewAthena X-ray Observatory

Join to apply for the Project Scientist (m/f/d) for Wide Field Imager Instrument for NewAthena X-ray Observatory role at Max Planck Institute for Extraterrestrial Physics .

Reference number 26/2025

The position will be based within the High-Energy Astrophysics Group at the Max Planck Institute for Extraterrestrial Physics (MPE) in Garching, led by Prof. Kirpal Nandra.

The WFI is one of two scientific instruments planned for NewAthena. Based on state-of-the-art DEPFET technology developed by the Max Planck Semiconductor Laboratory, it will deliver spectroscopic imaging over a large field of view (40′ × 40′), with high spatial resolution, excellent temporal resolution, and good spectral resolution in the 0.2-15 keV energy band. The WFI will address key scientific goals such as tracing the origin and distribution of metals in the Universe, probing the physical processes that govern the evolution of baryons within dark matter halos, exploring how supermassive black hole growth shapes galaxy evolution, constraining the equation of state of ultra-dense matter in neutron stars, and contributing to multi-messenger astrophysics.

Responsibilities

• Advising the Instrument Principal Investigator, Prof. Kirpal Nandra, on strategies to optimize the scientific performance of the instrument.
• Leading the development and refinement of the WFI science case.
• Chairing the WFI Science Team (WST).
• Evaluating the scientific impact of changes in instrument performance and supporting efforts to optimize the instrument design.
• Identifying scientific requirements for data products and analysis tools to be provided to the broader community.
• Acting as a key interface between the instrument development team and the wider science community, and other NewAthena stakeholders.
• Coordinating the international WFI Consortium together with the WFI Project Office.

Qualifications

• Ph.D. in Physics, Astronomy or Astrophysics.
• At least three years of full-time postdoctoral experience.
• Scientific expertise in one or more of the WFI's core science areas is highly desirable.
• Experience with X-ray instrumentation and/or data analysis is an important asset.

Benefits

• A versatile, challenging and autonomous job in a dynamic and international research environment.
• Interdisciplinary work in a collegial team of experienced engineers and physicists.
• Needs-oriented training opportunities.
• Payment in line with your qualifications and professional experience in accordance with the collective agreement for the public sector (TVöD Bund).
• Company pension scheme (VBL).
• Canteen in the immediate vicinity.
• Underground station U6 directly in front of the institute, discounted public transport job tickets.
• Free parking on the institute premises.
• Family service at the Garching research campus.
• Private accident insurance financed by the employer.
• Reduced rates for certain insurance policies.

The appointment will be time-limited until 31st December 2027, with the possibility of renewal.

Important note

Please be advised that a valid work permit for Germany is required for non-EU citizens. Unfortunately, applications without a valid work permit and sufficient German language skills may not be considered.

Location: Max Planck Institute for Extraterrestrial Physics, Garching, Germany.

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