Publisher
source

Pascal Oesch

4 days ago

Postdoctoral Position: JWST and the First Galaxies at Cosmic Dawn University of Geneva in Switzerland

Degree Level

Postdoc

Field of study

Astronomy

Funding

Available

Deadline

Nov 16, 2026

Country flag

Country

Switzerland

University

University of Geneva

Social connections

How do I apply for this?

Sign in for free to reveal details, requirements, and source links.

More information can be found here

Keywords

Astronomy
Astrophysics
Extragalactic Astronomy
Galaxy Clusters
Physics

Suggested positions

About this position

The Department of Astronomy at the University of Geneva invites applications for a postdoctoral position in observational extragalactic astronomy, working in the group of Prof. Pascal Oesch. The position is supported by a Swiss National Science Foundation (SNSF) project, Unveiling Cosmic Dawn: JWST Constraints on the Formation and Physics of the First Galaxies at z>10.

The project focuses on the earliest stages of galaxy formation and the use of JWST to study the first galaxies at cosmic dawn. The successful candidate will contribute to identifying very distant galaxies with new imaging, characterizing their physical properties with JWST/NIRSpec, and connecting early galaxies to their dark matter halos through clustering analyses. The work builds on large surveys and the DAWN JWST Archive (DJA), offering a strong observational and data-interpretation environment.

Applicants with experience in photometric selection of high-redshift galaxies, spectroscopic analysis, galaxy clustering, halo occupation distribution (HOD) modeling, or simulation-based inference (SBI) are especially encouraged to apply. The postdoc is expected to participate in a vibrant astrophysics research environment at Geneva and benefit from close ties to the Cosmic DAWN Center in Copenhagen.

The appointment is for two years, with a possible extension to a third year. The expected start date is fall 2027 (negotiable). A PhD in astrophysics or a related field is required by the start date. The postdoc will also have the opportunity to supervise PhD and Master’s students.

Funding and benefits: The position is funded through an SNSF project and includes standard Swiss social security, accident insurance, and pension contributions.

Application deadline: 16 November 2026 (end of day, anywhere on Earth). Applications should be submitted through the Google Form provided by the host group. Shortlisted candidates will be asked for reference letters.

Funding details

Available

What's required

A PhD in astrophysics or a related field is required by the start date. Applicants should have expertise in one or more of the following: photometric selection of high-redshift galaxies, spectroscopic analysis, galaxy clustering, halo occupation distribution (HOD) modeling, or simulation-based inference (SBI). Excellent English is required.

How to apply

Apply via the Google Form and upload a single PDF containing a cover letter, CV with publication list, and a research statement (max. 3 pages). Also provide contact details for three referees. Reference letters will be requested only for shortlisted candidates.

Ask ApplyKite AI

Start chatting
Can you summarize this position?
What qualifications are required for this position?
How should I prepare my application?

Professors