Faculty of Physics and Astronomy :
Observational Cosmology
In order to fill a fixed-term position in part-time (29.8725 hours/week = 75%) starting on 01.05.2026 (or later at the candidate's [m/f/x] request), we are looking for a
The observational cosmology group at the Ruhr-Universität Bochum (RUB), led by Prof. Hendrik Hildebrandt, is looking for a PhD student (m/f/x) with the earliest starting date of 1st May, 2026. The position is open to candidates from any country. The group provides a stimulating and international environment, with members from many different countries. The group is involved in the data analysis of several wide-field imaging surveys in the optical and infrared, most importantly KiDS, Euclid, UNIONS, and LSST@Rubin. The successful candidate (m/f/x) will work on the technical and theoretical development, simulation, and scientific analysis for one of the above mentioned projects.
| Scope: | part-time |
| Duration: | fixed-term,
3 years |
| Start: | starting on 01.05.2026 (or later at the candidate's [m/f/x] request) |
| Apply by: |
2026-01-05 |
● Weak gravitational lensing and/or clustering analysis of wide-field imaging surveys
● Exploration of new observables
● Simulation of certain aspects of these experiments
● Quantification and correction of systematic errors
● Presentation of results within collaboration and at international conferences
● Teaching assistant for exercises / lab-courses.
● Master’s degree in astronomy or astrophysics (by the time the position starts)
● Good understanding of cosmology theory and observations
● Proficient knowledge of English
● Extensive coding experience (preferentially in python)
● Excellent communication and presentation skills
Desired skills
● Familiarity with wide-field imaging data
● Experience with weak gravitational lensing and/or clustering analysis
● Experience with scientific writing and publication of results
● Willingness to travel
We are looking forward to receiving your application containing the following documents
● CV (max. 2 page)
● Statement of interest and previous experience (max. 2 page)
● 2 letters of recommendation, sent by the references directly to secretary@astro.rub.de.
● Copies of Bachelor and/or Master thesis and transcript of records
The position is salaried and based on the collective agreement of the Länder (TV-L). If the personal and collective agreement requirements are met, the employee will receive pay grade E13 TV-L.
Further information can be found at https://oeffentlicher-dienst.info/ (in German).
The place of work is Ruhr University Bochum.Please apply via RUB’s BITE portal under this link. The review of applications will begin on 5th January 2026 and continue until the position is filled.
RUB sees itself as a university with an international presence. The campus languages are German and English. Competence in at least one of the two languages and the willingness to learn the other are a prerequisite. RUB provides corresponding free courses for employees.
German language courses are offered by the University Language Center (ZFA) in the field of German as a Foreign Language (DaF).
https://www.daf.ruhr-uni-bochum.de/sbgk/index.html.en
The Staff Council has the right to participate in all selection interviews. At the request of a candidate (m/f/x), it will ensure its participation in the entire procedure. Please contact wpr@rub.de.
The Ruhr-Universität Bochum is one of Germany’s leading research universities, addressing the whole range of academic disciplines. A highly dynamic setting enables researchers and students to work across the traditional boundaries of academic subjects and faculties. To create knowledge networks within and beyond the university is Ruhr-Universität Bochum’s declared aim.
The Ruhr-Universität Bochum stands for diversity and equal opportunities. For this reason, we favour a working environment composed of heterogeneous teams, and seek to promote the careers of individuals who are underrepresented in our respective professional areas. The Ruhr-Universität Bochum expressly requests job applications from women. In areas in which they are underrepresented they will be given preference in the case of equivalent qualifications with male candidates. Applications from individuals with disabilities are most welcome.
Hendrik Hildebrandt
, Tel.: +49 234 32 24019
Travel costs, accommodation costs and loss of earnings or other application costs for job interviews can unfortunately not be reimbursed.
We look forward to receiving your application via our online application portal by 2026-01-05. Please make sure to mention the reference number ANR 5198.