We are one of the largest and oldest universities in Europe and one of the most important employers in our region.
Our broad range of subjects, the dynamic development of our main research areas and our central location in Cologne
make us attractive for students and researchers from around the world. We offer a wide range of career opportunities in
science, technology, and administration.
The Universities of Cologne and Bonn have established the new
Cluster of Excellence „Our Dynamic Universe“ in collboration with
non-university partner institutions. The computational astrophysics
position offered here is focused on the development of a new, ver-
satile simulation code for star and galaxy formation in the context of
exascale computing.
YOUR TASKS
» Development of a new simulation code for exascale-ready
astrophysical MHD simulations
» Implementation of overset grids in an adaptive mesh framework
» High-resolution numerical simulations of star formation
» Analysis and interpretation of the simulation data
» Close collaboration with the other teams within the Cluster of
Excellence
» Presentation of results at international conferences
» Publication of the results in peer-reviewed journals
YOUR PROFILE
» You have a doctorate in astrophysics, computer science, mat-
hematics, or a related discipline
» Strong background in code development and numerical simula-
tions, ideally related to star formation or the interstellar medium
» Experience with high-performance computing and programm-
ing languages such as Python, C/C++, or Fortran
» Experience with heterogeneous HPC systems including GPUs
» Strong interest in interdisciplinary research combining astro-
physics, simulations, and data analysis
» Very good command of English; knowledge of German is an
advantage
» High motivation, ability to work independently, and strong
teamwork skills
WE OFFER
» An ambitous scientific position within the new Cluster of Excel-
lence
» A diverse working environment with equal opportunities
» Support in balancing work and family life
» Flexible working time models
» Extensive advanced training opportunities
» Occupational health management offers
The University of Cologne promotes equal opportunities and
diversity. Women will be considered preferentially in accordance
with the Equal Opportunities Act of North Rhine-Westphalia
(Landesgleichstellungsgesetz – LGG NRW). We also expressly wel-
come applications from all suitable candidates regardless of their
gender, nationality, ethnic and social origin, religion, disability, age,
sexual orientation and identity.
The position is available immediately on a full-time basis (39,83
hours per week). The position is to be filled for a fixed term until
30 June 2029. If the applicant meets the relevant wage require-
ments and has the appropriate personal qualifications, the salary
is based on remuneration group 13 TV-L of the pay scale for the
German public sector.
Please apply online with proof of the required qualifications (without
a photo) under https://jobportal.uni-koeln.de The reference number
is Wiss2606-12. The application deadline is 30 July 2026.
For further inquiries, please contact Professor Dr. Stefanie Walch-
Gassner at ([email protected]) and take a look at our FAQs.
Postdoctoral Researcher Position – Computational Astrophysics within the Cluster of Excellence ‘Our Dynamic Universe’ (f/m/x)
Faculty of Mathematics and Natural Sciences
Institute of Physics
