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

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

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The Max Planck Institute for Extraterrestrial Physics (MPE) is a world-renowned institute in both space- and ground-based experimental astrophysics, playing leading roles in numerous major astronomical missions and projects. The high-energy group carries out major space hardware activities supporting its astrophysics research program, including developing X-ray detectors and X-ray optics. It is the lead institute for the NewAthena/WFI Consortium and responsible for delivering the instrument to ESA for an anticipated launch in 2038. The High-Energy Group has also contributed significantly to missions such as Chandra and XMM–Newton, led the development of the eROSITA X-ray telescope and is a partner in Einstein Probe and eXTP.

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. Thanks to its unprecedented survey capabilities, the WFI will address a broad range of key scientific goals: 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 by jointly studying cosmic explosions and mergers using both gravitational wave and electromagnetic observations. In addition, a dedicated fast detector will provide exceptional high‑count‑rate capabilities, enabling the detailed study of the brightest X‑ray sources in the sky.

Your tasks

• 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

Your 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 considered an important asset

Our offer

• 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.

Applicants should submit their documents (in English and PDF form) via our online application portal by 30th November 2025 , including a cover letter, a curriculum vitae, a list of publications, a brief (~1 page) description of research interests and the names of three referees that can provide letters of reference upon request.

Late applications will be considered. Informal enquiries about the position may be addressed to Prof. Kirpal Nandra.

The Max Planck Society is committed to increasing the number of individuals with disabilities in its workforce and, therefore, encourages applications from such qualified individuals. Furthermore, the Max Planck Society seeks to increase the number of women in those areas where they are underrepresented and, therefore, explicitly encourages women to apply.

The MPE wishes to increase diversity and equality of opportunity in all respects and welcomes applications without regard to factors such as nationality, ethnicity, disability, religion, gender, gender identity or expression, or sexual orientation.

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