POSTDOC POSITION (f/m/x) in Planetary Plasma Physics and Instrumentation

(full-time, 40h per week)

In April 2024, an ESA Expert Committee identified a mission to the Saturnian system that combines a tour to several Saturn moons and a detailed exploration of Enceladus as most suitable to achieve the scientific objectives of the first Large mission of ESA’s Voyage 2050 program covering the science theme "Moons of the Giant Planets". This ESA L4 mission aims at an orbiter that samples Enceladus' plumes and the delivery of a surface element on Enceladus’ surface for in-situ measurements. The IWF opens a strategic short-term position to support its science and technology aspiration for this L4 mission into the Saturnian system.

We invite applications for an 18-month postdoctoral position to work on the scientific preparation of ESA’s future L4 mission to study Enceladus and combining the IWF’s science expertise with the IWF’s available capabilities of the sensor technology (ion spectrometer, magnetometer). Similar IWF sensors are currently in use aboard the solar system missions BepiColombo, JUICE and Comet Interceptor.

Your Tasks

• Familiarise yourself with the scientific objectives of the L4 mission and related science and sensor know-how at the IWF. This requires focused communication with the IWF science and hardware experts from four research groups (Solar System Planetary Physics, Space Plasma Physics, Onboard Computing and Space Magnetometers).
• Conduct research based on literature studies, data analysis and/or theoretical studies to prepare the IWF for the ESA L4 mission.
• Development of initial sensor performance requirements needed to achieve the science objectives for both, the orbiter and the lander.
• Support acquisition of third-party postdoc funding from e.g., the Austrian Science Fund to continue and/or finalize this study. Aspirations for submitting an ERC grant will be very welcome.

Your Profile

• The applicant must hold a PhD in physics, astrophysics, or a related field.
• Experience in the research of outer planets icy moons.
• Communication skills to work in international teams with broad interests in space physics and space instrumentation.

Our Offer

The annual gross salary according to the collective agreement of the Austrian Academy of Sciences (OeAW) for this position is € 69,028.40 (full time based, before taxes).

Please send your application (in total no longer than 10 pages) including (1) a curriculum vitae, (2) a list of publications, (3) a statement of your background, research interests, and relevant experiences, (4) up to three names of references with the full contact information in a single PDF file via email to Ms. Cosima Muck (cosima.muck@oeaw.ac.at), mentioning Job ID:IWF 60PD125 no later than 16 May 2025.

Inquiries about the position should be also directed to Ms. Cosima Muck.

The Austrian Academy of Sciences (OeAW) pursues a non-discriminatory employment policy and values equal opportunities, as well as diversity. Individuals from underrepresented groups are particularly encouraged to apply.