The Max Planck Institute for Radio Astronomy (MPIfR), an institute of the Max Planck Society for the Advancement of Science, is one of the leading institutes for astronomical research in Germany. It operates, among others, the 100-m radio telescope in Effelsberg and the APEX submillimeter telescope in Chile. As an innovative research institution with numerous national and international collaborations, we conduct fundamental research in astronomy. In addition to its scientific activities, the institute develops advanced technologies, instruments, and detectors in modern laboratories, covering a broad spectrum from scientific concepts to technical implementation.

The Submm/FIR Technologies Division plays a key role in supporting the operation of the APEX telescope by developing and providing state-of-the-art instrumentation. In addition, the division contributes its technological expertise to the instrumentation of other observatories, including those in the context of IRAM, in which the Max Planck Society is a major partner.

To strengthen our Submm/FIR Technologies Division, we are seeking to fill in at the earlistest possible date the position of a

Physicist (m/f/d) or Equivalent Qualification

Your tasks:

• Development, characterization, and scientific operation of advanced instrumentation for submm/FIR astronomy, with a particular focus on the APEX telescope
• Participation in the development and integration of cryogenic receiver systems and modern detector technologies, especially Microwave Kinetic Inductance Detectors (MKIDs)
• Design and further development of software and data-processing systems for scientific instruments and observing platforms
• Development of real-time control and readout systems for complex receiver and detector instrumentation
• Analysis, processing, and scientific evaluation of astronomical data
• Development of efficient algorithms and software solutions for data acquisition, signal processing, and data reduction
• Participation in the commissioning, characterization, and optimization of new instrumentation in the laboratory and at the telescope
• Support and execution of astronomical observations at international observatories
• Close collaboration with scientific and technical groups at the interface between instrumentation, software development, and astronomy
• Presentation and documentation of scientific and technical results in an international environment

Your profile:

• University degree in Physics, Electrical Engineering, or a related discipline, preferably with a PhD
• Strong background in astronomical instrumentation and experimental research
• Experience in several of the following areas:
• Microwave Kinetic Inductance Detectors (MKIDs) and cryogenic detector systems
• High-frequency and millimeter/submillimeter-wave technology
• Development of software and real-time systems for scientific instrumentation
• Signal processing, data reduction, and numerical methods
• Distributed systems, instrument control, and database systems
• Development of high-performance algorithms for scientific applications
• Operation and characterization of submm and THz instrumentation in an astronomical environment
• Experience in scientific software development, ideally in C/C++, Python, or comparable programming languages
• Interest in combining instrumentation, software development, and astronomical research
• Ability to work independently and in a structured manner within complex international projects
• Ability to work under demanding physical conditions, including high-altitude environments (APEX, 5100 m)
• Excellent English communication skills, both written and spoken
• Ability to work effectively in an international team environment

You are characterized by a high level of initiative, creativity, and commitment. You work in a precise, analytical, and goal-oriented manner and enjoy solving technical and scientific challenges together with international teams. You are able to bridge the gap between modern instrumentation, software development, and astronomical research.

What we offer:

• A permanent full-time position at a leading international research institute
• An international and innovative working environment in modern laboratories at the interface of research and technical development
• The opportunity to contribute to advanced instrumentation for international observatories and large scientific projects
• A modern and diverse workplace with a high degree of autonomy and responsibility
• Participation in observing campaigns and instrument deployments at international observatories
• Flexible working hours, the possibility of remote work in agreement with the division management, and a subsidized public transport ticket (“Jobticket”)
• Salary and benefits in accordance with the German public service collective agreement (TVöD Bund), including social benefits and a company pension scheme (VBL)
• Health promotion programs

The Max Planck Society is committed to increasing the number of individuals with disabilities in its workforce and therefore encourages applications from such qualified individuals. Furthermore, the Max Planck Society seeks to increase the number of women in areas where they are underrepresented and therefore explicitly encourages women to apply.

For further information, please contact Prof. Dr. Bernd Klein at: .

We look forward to receiving your complete application (cover letter, CV, certificates) by 31.05.2026 via our .