Job Description

InstitutionFaculty of Mathematics, Informatics and Natural Sciences, Department of Physics
Salary levelEGR. 13 TV-L
Start date01.02.2026, fixed for a period of 1 year (with the possibility of an extension of 2 years pending approval of external funding) (This is a fixed-term contract in accordance with Section 2 of the academic fixed-term labor contract act [Wissenschaftszeitvertragsgesetz, WissZeitVG]).
Application deadline22.08.2025
Scope of workfull-time position suitable for part-time
Your responsibilities


Duties include academic services in the project named above. Research associates may also pursue independent research and further academic qualifications.



We invite applications for one position in extragalactic astrophysics at Hamburg Observatory (Universität Hamburg) within the DFG-funded Emmy Noether Research Group led by Dr. Jan-Torge Schindler.



The group studies the formation of growing supermassive black holes (SMBHs) and their subsequent evolution in the early Universe. We aim to understand the processes by which SMBHs form, how they grow to their observed masses and how they influence the evolution of their host galaxies. Furthermore, we use actively growing SMBHs - quasars - as probes of the cosmic large-scale structure and the physical evolution of the intergalactic medium. In order to address these science questions, we use wide-area photometric surveys to discover new quasars at high redshift (using Euclid, LSST, data mining, machine learning, spectroscopy), conduct follow-up observations to characterise them (with optical, near-infrared, and sub-mm observations, spectroscopic modelling) and analyse their demographics (e.g., luminosity function, mass function using statistical inference).



We are looking for a candidate with a keen interest in the formation and growth of supermassive black holes in the first two billion years of cosmic time. The prospective candidate will focus their work on the selection, discovery, and characterization of high-redshift active galactic nuclei and quasars using wide-area survey data (e.g., from the Euclid Mission, the Nancy Grace Roman Telescope, and the Vera C. Rubin Observatory). With a particular interest in building a comprehensive census of the active SMBH population, we expect the candidate to lead the development of more inclusive selection methods using modern machine learning techniques.



The research associate will spend 100 % of their time on academic research, including communicating results in major conferences and through journal publications. In addition to pursuing independent research and obtaining further qualifications they also have the opportunity to mentor students at the Bachelor and Master level.


Your profile


A university degree in a relevant field, plus doctorate.



Applicants should hold a university degree with a doctorate in a relevant field (e.g., Physics, Astronomy/Astrophysics) at the time of starting. The position requires excellent English proficiency, good communication and team skills. Furthermore, the candidate should have experience in the search for rare astronomical sources (e.g., quasars) and in the application of machine learning methods to astronomical data. This includes coding experience with standard machine learning libraries (e.g., PyTorch, TensorFlow, scikit-learn).



Ideal candidates have also demonstrated research experience in the areas of extragalactic astrophysics, survey astronomy, galaxy and active galactic nuclei evolution as well as experience in astronomical observations, including proposal writing.



Please do not hesitate to contact Jan-Torge Schindler via the below email address in case you have any questions about the position, the selection process, or the possible research projects. More information about the group can be found on jtschindler.de.


We offer

Reliable remuneration based on wage agreements Continuing education opportunities University pensions Attractive location Flexible working hours Work-life balance opportunities Health management, EGYM Wellpass Educational leave 30 days of vacation per annum
Universität Hamburg—University of Excellence is one of the strongest research educational institutions in Germany. Our work in research, teaching, educational and knowledge exchange activities is fostering the next generation of responsible global citizens ready to tackle the global challenges facing us. Our guiding principle “Innovating and Cooperating for a Sustainable Future in a digital age” drives collaboration with academic and nonacademic partner institutions in the Hamburg Metropolitan Region and around the world. We would like to invite you to be part of our community to work with us in creating sustainable and digital change for a dynamic and pluralist society.



The University of Hamburg is committed to equity. Diversity enriches our university life, whether in our studies, research, teaching, education, or workplace. We therefore welcome all applications, regardless of gender, gender identity, sexual orientation, ethnic or social background, age, religion or belief, disability, or chronic illness.


The University of Hamburg strives to increase the number of women in academia, and encourages qualified female academics to apply.


Severely disabled and disabled applicants with the same status will receive preference over equally qualified non-disabled applicants.


Instructions for applying


Contact


Dr. Jan-Torge Schindler



jan-torge.schindler@uni-hamburg.de



+49 40 42838-8427


Reference number


199
Location


Gojenbergsweg 112

21029 Hamburg



Application deadline


22.08.2025
Use only the online application form to submit your application with the following documents:


cover letter CV copies of degree certificate(s) two reference letters submitted on their behalf by the letter writers. Letters should be send directly to bewerbungen@uni-hamburg.de

If you experience technical problems, send an email to bewerbungen@uni-hamburg.de.