Job ID: IWF075PD126

The Space Research Institute in Graz invites applications for a position as

Postdoc (f/m/x) 

in the research group “Planet-forming Disks and Astrochemistry” led by Priv.- Doz. Dr. Peter Woitke as part of the OeAW’s efforts to expand the theme of exoplanet research at the Space Research Institute (IWF) in Graz.

The Space Research Institute (IWF) is involved in about 20 missions led by the world’s main space agencies. The disk group focusses on connecting astrochemistry with planet formation, modelling the physico-chemical processes in disks, and to link these models to astronomical and solar system observations, and geology. Current research topics include the structure and chemical composition of the disk probed with ALMA and JWST, the impact of dust evolution, external irradiation and disk winds on element abundances, chemistry and observation, and the prediction of the material composition of rocks and ices forming in the disks.

• Prepare archival and new observational data (for example ALMA or JWST) for analysis and modelling, including high-quality data reduction
• Use ProDiMo ( see https://prodimo.iwf.oeaw.ac.at) to analyse and interpret these observations
• Identify future ESA L, M, and F space missions with IWF contribution related to disks, and get involved in the international science teams preparing the science cases for them

• The applicant must hold a PhD in Physics, Geophysics, Astrophysics, or a related field
• Experience with astrochemistry in protoplanetary disks
• Experience with data reduction, in particular ALMA and JWST
• Excellent publication record

The appointment will be for 3 years initially but can be extended up to 6 years, subject to the availability of funding and performance.

The appointment begins as early as November 1st, 2026, but can also be agreed to start at a later time.

The minimum annual gross salary for this position is EUR € 70.167,44 (full-time based), in accordance with the collective agreement of the Austrian Academy of Sciences (ÖAW). For part-time employment, the salary will be adjusted on a pro rata basis in line with the agreed working hours.

A valid application must include (1) curriculum vitae, (2) publication list, (3) research statement - max 3 pages, (4) academic certificates, and (5) names of three referees willing to send letters of recommendation.

The closing date of applications is September 15, 2026, but remains open until a suitable candidate has been found.

For inquiries, contact Dr. Peter Woitke (peter.woitke@oeaw.ac.at). For more information about the institute and the disk group, see http://www.iwf.oeaw.ac.at.

Peter Woitke  |  peter.woitke@oeaw.ac.at
IWF | 8042 Graz, Austria
Österreichische Akademie der Wissenschaften | Austrian Academy of Sciences | https://www.oeaw.ac.at/