Project Scientist

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.

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

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 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.

Aufgaben

• 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

Profil

• 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

Wir bieten

• 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.

LNKD1_DE