Postdoc in the Cluster of Excellence Dynaverse – Detector Development for CCAT Observatory University of Cologne in Germany

The University of Cologne, one of Europe's largest and oldest universities, invites applications for a postdoctoral position within the Cluster of Excellence Dynaverse at the Astrophysics Institute, Faculty of Mathematics and Natural Sciences. This role centers on the development of detectors and detector architecture for spectroscopic second-generation multi-pixel instruments for the CCAT observatory, a cutting-edge facility for astronomical research.

The successful candidate will manage detector development projects for second-generation instrumentation at the CCAT/FYST observatory, collaborating closely with the in-house microfabrication laboratory and partner labs at TUDelft/SRON. Responsibilities include system design and analysis of microwave kinetic inductance detector microchips and superconductor-insulator-superconductor mixers for a spatially multiplexing wide-band spectrometer. The postdoc will also work with the receiver group responsible for telescope receivers and contribute to the management of the detector research lab, including co-supervision of postdoctoral and master student lab courses.

Applicants must hold a PhD in Physics, ideally in experimental physics, with demonstrated experience in superconductivity, microwaves, cryogenics, and/or micro-/nanofabrication. Knowledge of detector physics, proven design capabilities, and familiarity with microchip fabrication are essential. Leadership, teamwork, and independent thinking are valued, as is experience supervising undergraduate and graduate students.

The University of Cologne offers an international team environment in the dynamic field of astronomical instrumentation, with equal opportunities, flexible working models, advanced training, occupational health management, and remote work options. The position is full-time (39.83 hours/week), available from 1 August 2026, and fixed-term until 31 July 2029. Salary is based on remuneration group 13 TV-L of the German public sector pay scale.

Applications should be submitted online via the University of Cologne job portal, referencing Wiss2604-03, with proof of qualifications (no photo). The deadline is 31 May 2026. For further inquiries, contact Professor Dominik Riechers ([email protected]) or Dr Netty Honingh ([email protected]). More information about the CCAT observatory can be found at https://ccat.uni-koeln.de/.