PhD Position - Interstellar Objects

Your Job

This project uses numerical simulations to determine the relative importance of the presence of interstellar objects (ISOs) in the interstellar medium. Specifically, the various formation process, the role of ISOs passing through molecular clouds, taking part in molecular cloud collapse and disc formation.

Your tasks in detail:

• Perform scientific work on the research topic, in collaboration with the other SDLAA members
• Cooperate with partners in Dynaverse on relevant adjacent topics
• Present / publish results in collaboration meetings, workshops and conferences and the preparation of project reports
• Develop and apply software tools
• Document software and data according to the FAIR data principles

Your Profile

• Master's degree in astronomy, physics, computer science or equivalent degree
• Solid background in star and planet formation or small bodies of the solar system
• Experience in hydrodynamics and/or N-body simulations in the star and planet formation context
• Programming experience
• Proven background in software development
• Self‑motivated personality with very good command of written/spoken English and ideally a very good command of German

Our Offer

• Comprehensive training courses and individual opportunities for personal and professional further development
• Extensive company health management
• Flexible work (location) arrangements, e.g. remote work
• 30 days of annual leave and provision for days off between public holidays and weekends (e.g. between Christmas and New Year)
• A large research campus with green spaces, offering the best possible means for networking with colleagues and pursuing sports alongside work
• Further development of your personal strengths, e.g. through an extensive range of training courses; a structured program of continuing education and networking opportunities specifically for doctoral researchers via JuDocS, the Jülich Center for Doctoral Researchers and Supervisors:
• Targeted services for international employees, e.g. through our International Advisory Service

In addition to exciting tasks and a collaborative working atmosphere at Jülich, we have a lot more to offer:

The position is for a fixed term of 3 years. Pay in line with 65% of pay group 13 of the Collective Agreement for the Public Service (TVöD-Bund) and additionally 60% of a monthly salary as special payment (“Christmas bonus”). The monthly salaries in euro can be found on the BMI website:

We welcome applications from people with diverse backgrounds, e.g. in terms of age, gender, disability, sexual orientation / identity, and social, ethnic and religious origin. A diverse and inclusive working environment with equal opportunities in which everyone can realize their potential is important to us.

The following links provide further information on diversity and equal opportunities: and on specific support options: