About the opportunity
The Cosmic Dawn Center (DAWN) invites applications for both the DAWN Postdoctoral Fellowship and postdoctoral positions to work on specific projects. DAWN is a Center of Excellence funded by the Danish National Research Foundation (DNRF) and is located in the Copenhagen area at the Niels Bohr Institute, University of Copenhagen, and the Space division of the Danish Technical University. DAWN brings together experts in early Universe research, including first stars, galaxy evolution, reionization, transients, supernovae, and dark matter. Postdoctoral fellows and postdocs are encouraged to pursue independent research, collaborate with international associates, supervise students, and apply for grants as Principal Investigators.
Salary and benefits
- Generous support for computing, travel, and publication expenses
- Favorable tax scheme eligibility for most non-Danish citizens
- Attractive starting salary plus pension and possible salary supplement negotiation
- Six weeks of paid vacation
- Full health cover including family, paid sick leave, and paid parental leave
Who can apply?
- Outstanding scientists whose research falls within DAWN's research themes focused on the early Universe
- Applicants with interests and expertise in galaxy formation, stellar populations, Lyman-alpha emission, IGM/CGM evolution, galaxy-dark matter connections, JWST NIRSpec spectroscopy, and statistical inference
- Open to all qualified candidates regardless of personal background
Required documents
- Cover letter (maximum 1 page describing motivation)
- Research plan (maximum 3 pages including figures and references)
- Curriculum vitae, including a list of up to 3 references
- Diplomas (Master and PhD degree, or a letter from university/supervisor confirming completion requirements for candidates in their final year)
- Publication list
When to apply
- Application deadline is 6 November 2026 at 23:59 GMT+1
- Employment can start as early as Spring 2027 or upon agreement
How to apply
- Prepare the required application documents in English
- Submit the application electronically by clicking apply now on the official job portal
Additional information
- Applicants to this position are automatically considered for all available postdoctoral and fellowship positions at DAWN/NBI
- A separate application is required for positions at DAWN/DTU in the group of Associate Professor Kasper Heintz
Our Take on This Opportunity
This section reflects Open Opportunities’ own analysis of the opportunity from an applicant’s perspective.
You may be a strong fit if…
- Early-career researchers specializing in early Universe astrophysics, observational cosmology, galaxy evolution, or high-redshift transients.
- Scientists seeking a supportive, well-funded environment with opportunities to lead observing proposals, secure grants as PI, and supervise students.
- Candidates looking for comprehensive employee benefits, including generous travel and computing support, family health coverage, and paid parental leave.
What should you think carefully about?
- The positions are fixed-term appointments for up to three years, requiring relocation to the Copenhagen area.
- Applicants must carefully prepare a detailed 3-page research plan alongside a cover letter, CV, publication list, and diplomas before the strict November deadline.
How could this fit your current goals and plans?
These postdoctoral roles provide an exceptional platform for ambitious early-career researchers aiming to produce high-impact publications, build international collaborations within major cosmic surveys like JWST and ALMA, and establish independence as principal investigators.
Our take
Early-career astrophysicists and astronomers with a strong background in early Universe research should seriously consider applying for these prestigious positions at a world-class institution.
Ready to apply?
Review the opportunity on the official website before applying.
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