Professorship (W2) in Astrobiology and Research group leader at AIP

The University of Potsdam (UP), founded in 1991, is a prominent institution in the scientific landscape and a key economic and developmental driver for the region. It excels in third-party funding, has received multiple teaching awards, and is recognized for its service-oriented administration and family-friendly policies. With around 20,000 students and 3,000 employees across three locations-Am Neuen Palais, Griebnitzsee, and Golm-it is one of Germany's most scenic academic institutions.

The Faculty of Science at UP, in collaboration with the Leibniz Institute for Astrophysics Potsdam (AIP), invites applications for a joint professorship under the Jülich Model:

Professorship (W2) in Astrobiology and Research Group Leader at AIP

The Leibniz Institute for Astrophysics Potsdam (AIP) is a leading astrophysics research center with over 200 scientists, engineers, and support staff. Its research spans solar physics to the large-scale structure of the universe, with a focus on developing technologies in spectroscopy and automated observing systems. Located in Potsdam-Babelsberg near Berlin, AIP plays a major role in international telescope instrumentation projects, including 4MOST and BlueMUSE, and contributes to next-generation ELT spectrographs ANDES and MOSAIC.

• Lead a new research group in astrobiology within the "Stellar, Solar and Exoplanetary Physics" department at AIP.
• Demonstrate excellence in research through publications in peer-reviewed journals and participation in international conferences and collaborative projects.
• Focus on exoplanetary science, particularly the conditions for life on planets outside the solar system, including:
  • Identification and characterization of biosignatures accessible to astrophysical detection methods.
  • Dynamics, physics, and/or chemistry of exoplanetary atmospheres in the context of biosignatures.
  • Influence of particles and radiation on the emergence and evolution of life on exoplanets.
• Contribute expertise that complements AIP's existing research and fosters collaboration.
• Relate research to major astrophysical observatories of the next decades, particularly those involving AIP's instrumentation development.
• Foster interdisciplinary collaboration within and beyond the institute.
• Contribute to teaching in physics, including MSc-level astrophysics courses at the university.

• Outstanding scientific record and internationally recognized research profile in astrobiology.
• Excellent research record, experience in securing external funding, and a track record in teaching and student supervision.
• Experience in service to the astrophysics and astrobiology communities.
• Willingness to build and manage a diverse and competitive research group.
• Applications with a focus on observations, theory and simulation, or instrument development are welcome.

The joint appointment follows the Jülich Model with a teaching obligation at UP in accordance with the Brandenburg Higher Education Act (BbgHG). The hiring process adheres to Section 43 subsection 1 sentence 1 no. 1-3 and no. 4 letter a of the BbgHG, with the appointment procedure conducted under Section 42 BbgHG.

The University of Potsdam and AIP value diversity and pursue equal opportunities in line with the principle of equal treatment. They aim to significantly increase the proportion of women in research and teaching and expressly encourage applications from qualified female scientists. Preference will be given to equally qualified candidates with a severe disability. Periods of parental leave or caregiving are considered in career assessments. The implementation of equality and diversity standards in the respective field of work is expected. Dual career support and coaching for newly appointed professors are available.

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