About the opportunity
Ruhr University Bochum invites applications for a fixed-term, part-time Research Associate position (75%, E13 TV-L) within the Collaborative Research Center SFB 1491 (“Cosmic Interaction Matters – From Source to Signal”). The role is primarily intended for researchers specializing in radio continuum and optical observation and their comparison to magnetohydrodynamic models of galaxies or closely related areas. The position is fixed-term for a period of three years with the goal of completing a doctoral degree through a coordinated program via an integrated research school. If funded by third-party funds, the employee has no teaching obligation.
Salary and benefits
- Salaried position based on the collective agreement of the Länder (TV-L) at pay grade E13 TV-L
- Professional work environment in an enthusiastic scientific team
- Structured PhD program via an integrated research school
- Free campus language courses in German and English provided for employees
Who can apply?
- Bachelor's degree with very good grades in physics or physics and astronomy
- A completed Master's degree in physics and astronomy as a mandatory requirement at the time of starting the position
- Strong interest in the research topics of SFB 1491
- Previous experience at the Master's level in the relevant scientific field
- Demonstrated understanding of the physics of galaxy evolution
- Experience in analysis of simulation and/or observational data on nearby galaxies
- Experience in coding
- Competence in at least one of the campus languages (German or English) and willingness to learn the other
Required documents
- Cover letter
- Brief summary of your Master's thesis (PDF file)
- Application documents including CV and certificates
When to apply
- Application deadline is October 26, 2026
- Position is available to start as soon as possible
How to apply
- Prepare your application documents, including a cover letter and a summary of your Master's thesis
- Submit your application via the official online application portal by October 26, 2026
- Ensure you reference the position number ANR 6224
Additional information
- Reference number: ANR 6224
- The place of work is Ruhr University Bochum, Germany
- The Staff Council has the right to participate in all selection interviews upon candidate request (contact wpr@rub.de)
- Travel, accommodation, and loss of earnings costs for job interviews cannot be reimbursed
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…
- An ideal match for recent Master's graduates in physics or astronomy seeking a fully funded PhD track within a collaborative research center.
- Well-suited for researchers with practical background in data analysis, coding, and observation of nearby galaxies.
- Provides a strong platform for early-career publication and integration into an active international scientific network.
What should you think carefully about?
- This is a fixed-term part-time position (75% scope, approximately 29.87 hours per week) lasting for three years.
- Applicants must already hold or be about to complete a Master's degree in physics and astronomy by the start date.
- Relocation to Bochum, Germany is required as the work must be performed on-site at Ruhr University Bochum.
How could this fit your current goals and plans?
This position aligns directly with goals to secure funded doctoral training, conduct cutting-edge astrophysical research, and publish peer-reviewed papers within a structured graduate school environment. It serves as a strong stepping stone for an academic or specialized research career in astronomy.
Our take
Master's graduates in physics or astronomy with relevant data analysis experience and an interest in cosmic ray transport or galaxy evolution should apply before the October 26, 2026 deadline. Those seeking permanent employment or non-academic roles may find this fixed-term academic path less suitable.
Ready to apply?
Review the opportunity on the official website before applying.
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