Contact: guillem.domenech[AT]itp.uni-hannover.deLocation: Hannover, Germany
Job description:
The Institute for Theoretical Physics (ITP) at Hannover University is seeking applications for the position of a
Postdoctoral researcher in cosmology (salary scale TV-L E13, 100%)
starting fall 2026, with the possibility of arranging an earlier starting date. The position is for two years with a possible extension for another year.
Group description
The successful applicant will be part of the Emmy Noether research group at the ITP, dedicated to “probing the primordial universe with gravitational waves,” led by Dr. Guillem Domenech. The group is inside the “String Theory, Gravitation and particle physics” section, currently composed of three other research groups led by Prof. Giulini (formal aspects of gravity), Prof. Lechtenfeld (string and quantum field theory), and Prof. Fuchs (particle physics beyond the standard model).
The Emmy Noether group also enjoys regular interactions with the Max Planck Institute for Gravitation in Hannover, also known as the Albert Einstein Institute (AEI), which is located next door to the ITP. The AEI in Hannover is very active in gravitational wave physics, both in pulsar timing arrays and in gravitational wave interferometers (LVK, LISA, and ET). In particular, there are the “Observational Relativity and Cosmology” group, led by Prof. Allen, and the “Binary Merger Observations and Numerical Relativity” group, led by Dr. Ohme. A new research line on high-frequency gravitational wave detectors, led by Dr. Ejlli, has interesting applications to cosmic sources.
Position description
The researcher is expected to collaborate with group members in studying the formation of compact objects, such as black holes, through Yukawa interactions in the radiation-dominated universe and/or secondary (or induced) gravitational waves as tools to test the history of the primordial universe. Prior experience with gravitational collapse and/or more observational properties of the stochastic gravitational wave background will be helpful.
The salary is the standard postdoctoral salary in Germany, which, depending on several factors, ranges approximately between 2700 and 3200 euros as a net value. However, this will be determined by the university. The position includes funds for travel and workshops, and the postdoctoral researcher is expected to assist in organizing such activities. The postdoctoral position is also accompanied by light teaching duties, either in English or German.
Application Procedure
Please send the following to christin.wilson[AT]itp.uni-hannover.de:
CV with a list of publications.
Research statement: 3 pages explaining past achievements and future research plans.
2 reference letters to be sent directly to the above e-mail.
The deadline is December 12th. Interviews will take place in mid-January, to be arranged with the shortlisted candidates, who will be notified before the Winter holidays.
The University of Hannover strives to increase the fraction of female researchers and encourages applications from women. Disabled candidates are given preference if equally qualified.
For questions or more information, please send a message to: guillem.domenech[AT]itp.uni-hannover.de