IWF Graz. Leading Austria into Space. Since 1971
The Space Research Institute (IWF) with about 100 employees from twenty nations, is one of the largest institutes of the Austrian Academy of Sciences (OeAW). The institute is located in the Victor Franz Hess Research Center of the OeAW in Graz and hosts eight research groups on the astrophysics of the solar system, exoplanets, and space instrumentation. The IWF also operates a world-leading satellite laser ranging station at the Lustbühel Observatory. The Space Research Institute in Graz invites applications for a
Job ID: IWF020PD126
The Space Research Institute in Graz invites applications for a
Postdoc (f/m/x) Analysis and interpretation of space photometry and radial velocity exoplanet observations
(Full-time employee)
(Office)
The successful candidate will be part of Dr. Luca Fossati’s research group “Exoplanet characterisation and evolution”. The group’s research work concentrates on the observation, characterisation, and modelling of exoplanets, focusing in particular on the study of atmospheric structure and evolution using both observations and theory. Furthermore, the group holds significant expertise in the analysis of transit light curves and of radial velocity time series, as well as in the determination of stellar parameters from evolutionary models. The group is heavily involved in a number of current and future space missions (e.g. CHEOPS, CUTE, PLATO, ARIEL, WALTzER, ESCAPE, HWO) and in large collaborations exploiting ground-based high-resolution spectrographs to carry out both exoplanetary and stellar science. The position is funded by the Austrian Academy of Sciences.
Your Tasks
- Analysis and interpretation of CHEOPS transit light curves and ground-based radial velocity observations.
- Publication of original research work on refereed journals. Publication of original research work on refereed journals.
Your Profile
- PhD in the relevant fields of astrophysics.
- Experience with the analysis of space-based photometry and/or ground based radial velocity observations.
- Direct experience with CHEOPS data will be considered added value.
- Experience with the analysis of transit timing variations will be an advantage.
Experience in scientific programming and publishing.
Our Offer
The appointment begins as early as September 1st, 2026 and will be for 1 year and 2 months (i.e. until the end of October 2027) and possibly until December 2027. A later starting date is negotiable. We offer an annual gross salary of € 70.167,44 before taxes, susceptible to increase depending on inflation, according to the collective agreement of the Austrian Academy of Sciences. Included are various social benefits.
Applications must include a cover letter in addition to (1) curriculum vitae, (2) list of publications, (3) statement of the applicant's research experience (max 2 pages), (4) certificates for academic record, and (5) the name and email address of two persons willing to send a letter of recommendation.
Please send the application May 15th, 2026 latest. Inquiries about the position should be directed to Dr. Luca Fossati luca.fossati@oeaw.ac.at.
The Austrian Academy of Sciences (OeAW) pursues a non-discriminatory employment policy and values equal opportunities, as well as diversity. Individuals from underrepresented groups are particularly encouraged to apply. The OeAW cooperates with NEBA and is a member of MyAbility in order to provide appropriate workplace structures, in particular for persons with disabilities.
Contact
Luca Fossati | luca.fossati@oeaw.ac.at
IWF | 8042 Graz, Austria
Österreichische Akademie der Wissenschaften | Austrian Academy of Sciences | https://www.oeaw.ac.at/
