The Max Planck Institute for Solar System Research (MPS) in Göttingen is one of the world's leading research institutions in the field of solar physics and planetary research with around 300 employees. The interdisciplinary research focus is the investigation of the development, diversity and dynamics of planets, moons, small bodies, the sun and solar-like stars. The MPS develops and operates scientific instruments for current and future space missions (e.g. ESA, NASA), and carries out cosmochemical laboratory investigations of meteorites as well as numerical modeling on state-of-the-art supercomputers.

The Planetary Science Department at MPS invites applications for the position of a

Postdoctoral researcher (f/m/d) in SWI Science Operations

This postdoctoral position, as part of the Planetary Atmospheres research group and the (Submillimetre Wave Instrument) SWI project in particular, offers a unique opportunity to engage in the technical and scientific aspects of space research in the context of a state-of-the-art space mission. We are looking for a candidate with a proactive and solution-oriented mindset who is willing to learn and apply new concepts and techniques.

We are seeking a dedicated Postdoctoral Researcher to join our team, focusing on the development of the SWI ground segment, particularly the software tools used for science operations planning. In this role, you will not only engage with the technical aspects of the SWI science operations planning developments but also provide valuable support and expertise in physical modeling across one or more domains aligned with the SWI science goals. These domains include, but are not limited to, radiative transfer, thermophysical modeling of surfaces, and the chemistry and dynamics of atmospheres. The final scientific project for this position will be de-veloped according to the postdoc’s preferences. Project ideas that enhance SWI science are encouraged.

Your Tasks

• Maintain, enhance, and build upon existing SWI science operations tools and ground segment data pipeline (mostly Python)
• Collaborate closely with the SWI operations and science teams to understand SWI's scientific requirements and translate them into technical solutions for operations
• Act as a "developer” or "product owner" when an agile development strategy is pursued during JSOC (Jupiter Science Operation Center) lead science planning exercises
• Contribution to the meetings and relevant reviews for the SWI project ground segment and operations milestones relevant to the science data calibration

Your Qualification

• A PhD (or soon to be completed PhD) in physics, planetary science, or a Doctoral degree in aerospace, telecommunication, or software engineering
• A solid Python programming skill
• Experience in science data analysis, and physical model development
• Ability to work in a team and learn new things
• Good command of spoken and written English
• Previous experience in space instrument operations will serve as a valuable asset in this role

Additional Information

• Position can be filled from January 2026 (a sooner start can be considered)
• Initial contract is for 2 years, extension may be possible depending on performance
• Remuneration is according to EG 13 TVöD-Bund
• Application deadline is Oct, 31. 2025
• Our Offer
• Comprehensive onboarding, professional development and further training opportunities
• Diverse and varied tasks in an international workenvironment
• Renumeration according to TVöDBund, based on qualifications and experience, annual bonus and additional pension scheme (VBL)
• 30 days of vacation plus 4 additional days off
• Full-time and part-time employment; flexible working time and possibility of mobile work
• In-house cafeteria
• Collaboration with local bilingual Montessori child care center
• Good connection by public transport
• Corporate health

We look forward to receiving your informative application documents (cover letter, CV, references, certificates). Please submit these via the digital application portal (https://www.mps.mpg.de/career/jobs). If you have any questions, please do not hesitate to contact Dr. Ladislav Rezac (rezac@mps.mpg.de (rezac@mps.mpg.de) ).

The Max Planck Society endeavours to achieve gender equality and diversity. 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 Max Planck Society is committed to increasing the number of individuals with disabilities in its workforce and therefore encourages applications from such qualified individuals.

Website of the Institute https://www.mps.mpg.de/en (https://www.mps.mpg.de/)

Back to overview (https://www.mps.mpg.de/karriere/stellenangebote) Online application (https://karriere.mps.mpg.de/en/jobposting/b81c89db137114f1dee1f7fd754ff71423403aff0/apply)

Bereitgestellt in Kooperation mit der Bundesagentur für Arbeit.