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Faculty of Physics and Astronomy :
Theoretical Physics I
Theoretical Plasma Physics
In order to fill a fixed-term position in full-time (39.83 hours/week = 100%) starting on or after 01.11.2026, we are looking for a
Postdoctoral Researcher (m/f/x)
Our research group at the Faculty of Physics and Astronomy, Ruhr University Bochum, investigates the fundamental physics of plasmas through analytical and numerical plasma theory. A focus of our work lies on space plasmas such as the solar wind, the solar corona, and planetary magnetospheres. We connect our work to astrophysical plasmas across the universe such as accretion discs around black holes, the interstellar medium, and the medium between galaxies. Our research interests concentrate on plasma waves and instabilities, wave-particle interactions, weak collisions, turbulence, plasma heating and particle acceleration, shock waves, and multi-scale couplings. Since the field of plasma physics is inherently interdisciplinary, we work in close dialogue with plasma observations from spacecraft and laboratory experiments. Candidates joining our team will contribute to innovative research at the forefront of plasma physics with its interdisciplinary implications.
Scope: full-time
Duration: fixed-term, 3 Jahre
Start: starting on or after 01.11.2026
Apply by: 2026-09-21
Your tasks:
- Original research on the theoretical physics of plasma processes in space and astrophysical systems with a preferred focus on wave-particle interactions in collisionless plasmas
- Publication of research in peer-reviewed journal articles and presentation at national and international conferences
- Involvement in relevant interdisciplinary research at RUB and in national and international research collaborations
- Contributions to the preparation of proposals for the acquisition of external research funding
- Contributions to the broader activities of the research group (group meetings, scientific outreach, scientific organisation of meetings)
- Mentoring of MSc and PhD students in the group, and teaching obligations according to §3 of Lehrverpflichtungsverordnung (state of North Rhine-Westphalia)
Your profile:
- Essential:
- Hold or expect to hold a PhD in physics, astrophysics, or a closely related discipline
- Good knowledge of basic and contemporary plasma physics
- Experience in theoretical plasma physics research
- Ability to disseminate results of complex scientific studies effectively through scientific publication in peer-reviewed journals, and through written and oral presentations
- Ability to communicate and to work collaboratively as part of international teams
- Motivated to work independently when necessary
- Ability to work in an organised way and to meet deadlines
- Good command of English (written and spoken)
- Desirable:
- Track record in the theoretical study of wave-particle interactions in collisionless plasmas
- Strong skills in analytical plasma theory
- Experience in the comparison of theoretical results with spacecraft observations
- Willingness and ability to attend national and international meetings
We offer:
Challenging and varied tasks with a high level of independence, Employment at one of the largest universities in Germany within the University Alliance Ruhr, A qualified on-boarding and induction process, Collaboration in a committed and appreciative team, Support in combining family life and work (including childcare arrangements/holiday offers/mobile playroom)
- Challenging and varied tasks with a high degree of responsibility and independence
- The opportunity to make innovative contributions
- Networking opportunities at national and international conferences and in cooperation with national and international research partners
Further information:
The position is salaried and based on the collective agreement of the Länder (TV-L). If the personal and collective agreement requirements are met, the employee will receive pay grade E 13 TV-L.
Further information can be found at (in German).
The place of work is Ruhr University Bochum.
The load of teaching will be calculated according to § 3 of Lehrverpflichtungsverordnung (state of North Rhine-Westphalia).
RUB sees itself as a university with an international presence. The campus languages are German and English. Competence in at least one of the two languages and the willingness to learn the other are a prerequisite. RUB provides corresponding free courses for employees.
German language courses are offered by the University Language Center (ZFA) in the field of German as a Foreign Language (DaF). https://www.daf.ruhr-uni-bochum.de/daf/mitarbeitende/index.html.en
The Staff Council has the right to participate in all selection interviews. At the request of a candidate (m/f/x), it will ensure its participation in the entire procedure. Please contact wpr@rub.de.
The Ruhr-Universität Bochum is one of Germany’s leading research universities, addressing the whole range of academic disciplines. A highly dynamic setting enables researchers and students to work across the traditional boundaries of academic subjects and faculties. To create knowledge networks within and beyond the university is Ruhr-Universität Bochum’s declared aim.
The Ruhr-Universität Bochum stands for diversity and equal opportunities. For this reason, we favour a working environment composed of heterogeneous teams, and seek to promote the careers of individuals who are underrepresented in our respective professional areas. The Ruhr-Universität Bochum expressly requests job applications from women. In areas in which they are underrepresented they will be given preference in the case of equivalent qualifications with male candidates. Applications from individuals with disabilities are most welcome.
Contact persons for further information:
Prof. Dr. Daniel Verscharen
Susanne Hentrich 0234 32-26218
Travel costs, accommodation costs and loss of earnings or other application costs for job interviews can unfortunately not be reimbursed.
We look forward to receiving your application via our online application portal by 2026-09-21. Please make sure to mention the reference number ANR 6006.
RUHR-UNIVERSITÄT BOCHUM
44801 Bochum
Universitätsstraße 150
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