Research Assistant (Doctoral Position) in cosmology

 

The Institute of Theoretical Physics (ITP) welcomes applications for the following position starting in autumn 2026, although an earlier start date is possible: Research Assistant (Doctoral Position) in cosmology (salary scale 13 TV-L, 75 %)

The position is limited to 36 months. The position corresponds to 75% of regular working hours. It is open to applicants with a Master of Science in Physics.

Your positin at a glance

The successful applicant will be part of the Emmy Noether Research Group at ITP, which, under the leadership of Dr Guillem Domenech, is engaged in "researching the early universe with gravitational waves". The group is part of the "String Theory, Gravitation and Particle Physics" division, which currently consists of three other research groups led by Prof. Giulini (formal aspects of gravitation), Prof. Lechtenfeld (string and quantum field theory) and Prof. Fuchs (particle physics beyond the Standard Model).

Further information can be found at: https://www.itp.uni-hannover.de/en/research/string-theory-gravitation-and-particle-physics  

The Emmy Noether Group also maintains regular contact with the Max Planck Institute for Gravitational Physics in Hanover, also known as the Albert Einstein Institute (AEI), which is located next to the ITP. The AEI in Hanover is very active in gravitational wave physics, both in the field of pulsar timing arrays and in the field of gravitational wave interferometers (LVK, LISA and ET). In particular, there is the "Observational Relativity and Cosmology" group led by Prof. Allen and the "Binary Merger Observations and Numerical Relativity" group led by Dr Ohme. A new branch of research on high-frequency gravitational wave detectors led by Dr Ejlli has interesting applications for cosmic sources. The work includes the publication of articles and scientific lectures.

Who are we looking for?

A prerequisite for employment is a completed scientific university degree in physics. The doctoral candidate will work on the cosmology of Yukawa interactions in the very early universe, the possible formation of compact objects in the radiation-dominated universum, and the associated gravitational wave signatures. Prior knowledge of cosmology, general relativity theory or gravitational physics is an advantage.

Good communication skills in English, good presentation skills, programming skills, an open attitude towards constructive teamwork and a willingness to travel to conferences or workshops are expected.

Equal opportunities and diversity are core values at Leibniz University Hannover. Our goal is to tap into individual potential and open up possibilities. We therefore welcome applications from anyone interested in the position, irrespective of gender, nationality, ethnic origin, religion or ideology, disability, age, sexual orientation and identity.

We strive towards a balanced and diverse workforce and a reduction in under-representation in accordance with the Lower Saxony Equal Rights Act (Niedersächsisches Gleichberechtigungsgesetz – NGG). We therefore also welcome applications from women for the above-mentioned position. Preference will be given to equally-qualified candidates with disabilities.

Why join us?

With more than 5.000 employees, Leibniz University Hannover is one of the largest and most attractive employers in the Hannover region. We offer a vibrant interdisciplinary and international working environment, and promote personal and professional development ranging from subject-related skills to leadership and languages.

Remote work (mobile work, work from home) can be arranged upon request. We support employees with balancing work and family life, through services such as back-up childcare, childcare during school holidays, and parent-child offices, as well as providing individual advice regarding family responsibilities and caring for dependants.

To promote health and well-being among employees, we offer an extensive sports programme with over 100 different sports, as well as a fitness centre with a sauna and climbing space. Health management measures, such as courses on stress management, good nutrition and relaxation, aim to ensure a healthy workplace.

 

Additional information

For further information, please send a message to: guillem.domenech@itp.uni-hannover.de  

Please submit your application with the required documents (cover letter, research proposal: 3 pages with a description of your previous achievements and future research plans, CV with list of publications and 2 letters of reference, which should be sent directly). Interviews will take place at the end of January and will be arranged with shortlisted candidates, who will be notified before the winter holidays.