The Department of Astronomy at the University of Geneva invites applications for a postdoctoral position in observational extragalactic astronomy in the group of Prof. Pascal Oesch, funded by the Swiss National Science Foundation (SNSF) project "Unveiling Cosmic Dawn: JWST Constraints on the Formation and Physics of the First Galaxies at z>10".
The successful candidate will contribute to the project's main goals: identifying the most distant galaxies with new imaging, characterizing their physical properties with JWST/NIRSpec, and linking early galaxies to their dark matter halos through clustering measurements, building on several large surveys as well as the DAWN JWST Archive (DJA). We welcome applicants with expertise in any of the following: photometric selection of high-redshift galaxies, spectroscopic analysis, galaxy clustering, halo occupation distribution (HOD) modeling, or simulation-based inference (SBI). The postdoc will have the opportunity to supervise PhD student and Master's students.
The position is for two years, with a possible extension to a third year. Expected start: fall 2027 (negotiable). A PhD in astrophysics or a related field is required by the start date.
At the Department of Astronomy in Geneva, the successful candidates will find a rich and vibrant research environment in several fields of astrophysics. Our group also has close ties to the Cosmic DAWN Center in Copenhagen, with plenty of opportunities for collaboration.
To apply, use the Google Form at https://forms.gle/g7QWMvmwL451THYTA (Google sign-in required) to upload a single PDF containing a cover letter, a CV with publication list, and a research statement (max. 3 pages), and to provide contact details of three referees. Reference letters will only be requested for shortlisted candidates. Applications received by the end of November 16, 2026 (anywhere on Earth) will receive full consideration.
The University of Geneva is an equal opportunity employer and encourages applications from all qualified candidates.
Inquiries: pascal.oesch@unige.ch.
Included Benefits: Standard Swiss social security, accident insurance and pension contributions.
Requirements
- Research Field: Astronomy » Astrophysics
- Education Level: PhD or equivalent
- Languages: ENGLISH — Level: Excellent
Work Location(s)
- Number of offers available: 1
- Company/Institute: University of Geneva, Department of Astronomy
- Country: Switzerland
- City: Versoix
- Street: Chemin Pegasi 51
- Postal Code: 1290
Contact
Website: https://www.unige.ch/sciences/astro/cosmicdawn/
E-Mail: pascal.oesch@unige.ch