Research Associate for the Project “Observational studies of compact hot stars using large scale sky surveys” § 28 Subsection 3 HmbHG

Institution: Faculty of Mathematics, Informatics and Natural Sciences, Department of Physics, Hamburg Observatory

Salary level: EGR. 13 TV-L

Start date: as early as 01.02.2027 or according to agreement, fixed for a period of three years (This is a fixed-term contract in accordance with Section 2 of the academic fixed-term labor contract act [Wissenschaftszeitvertragsgesetz, WissZeitVG]).

Application deadline: 2026-10-15

Scope of work: part-time

Weekly hours: 66,67 % of standard work hours per week

Your responsibilities

Duties include academic services in the project named above. Research associates may also pursue further academic qualifications outside of their work responsibilities.

Applicants are invited for a research associate position in the area of time-domain astronomy, late stellar binary evolution and the exploitation of large astronomical surveys. The particular focus will be to measure precise system parameter of a large sample of hot subdwarf stars observed with large scale surveys such as SDSS-V. The successful candidate will join the BlackGEM, eROSITA and SDSS-V collaboration and is encouraged to exploit this facility.

Research associates will have their own travel budget and access to excellent computing facilities. Moreover, they will profit from the inspiring science environment and ample scientific expertise within the Cluster of Excellence „Quantum Universe“ .

Your profile

A university degree in a relevant field.

The successful candidate has good knowledge of fundamental topics in Astrophysics and a profound knowledge in late stellar binary stellar evolution. Candidates which have additional expertise in spectral modelling of compact hot stars are particularly encouraged to apply.

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.

Notice regarding the background check under Section 34a of the Hamburg security clearance act (Gesetz zur Regelung der Sicherheitsüberprüfungen, HmbSÜG): On behalf of the person chosen in the selection procedure, this office submits an inquiry to the state office for the protection of the constitution (Landesamt für Verfassungsschutz) regarding any available findings/information which meet the statutory requirements ( and ).

Instructions for applying

Contact

Thomas Kupfer

Location

Gojenbergsweg 112
21029 Hamburg

Reference number

230

Application deadline

2026-10-15

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

• cover letter
• CV
• copies of degree certificate(s)
• with your application, please indicate names and contact information of two individuals who can provide a reference for you

If you experience technical problems, send an email to .

More information on in selection procedures.