Postdoctoral Position in Extragalactic Astrophysics at the University of Geneva

Contact: Romain Meyer

Closing date: 2026-09-06

About the role

We invite applications for a postdoctoral research position focused on the Epoch of Reionisation at the Department of Astronomy at the University of Geneva. The successful applicant will work on observational studies of the intergalactic medium at z>5 and galaxies/AGN in the epoch of reionisation in a new group led by Romain Meyer.

The postdoctoral position will focus on observations of the IGM opacity and the ionising output of high-z galaxies, leveraging several PI-led JWST programmes (e.g. #7208, #11371) and VLT data (FORS2, MUSE, MOONS). The candidate will have the opportunity to conduct independent research for a fraction of their time, with access to large JWST collaborations (COSMOS-3D, FRESCO, EREBUS, JWST-OutThere) and access to the VLT/MOONS and ELT/MOSAIC Consortia. The team will initially be composed of one postdoctoral researcher and two PhD students.

The position is initially for two years, with the possibility of extension for one year depending on funding and performance. Computer equipment, travel funding, and access to local HPC infrastructure are included.

Research environment

The Department of Astronomy at UNIGE in Switzerland carries out research in the fields of extra-solar planets, stellar physics, high energy astrophysics, galaxy evolution and dynamics, and observational cosmology, providing a rich and vibrant research environment. Geneva is one of the most international and multicultural cities in Europe with a high quality of living, with the stunning Swiss/French Alps and Lake Geneva in close proximity.

Requirements

• PhD in Astrophysics or a related field by the start of the position
• Experience with JWST and/or VLT spectroscopy
• Solid background in high-redshift galaxies and/or IGM studies
• Experience with simulation-based inference and Hierarchical Bayesian modelling is an asset

The successful applicant will become part of a dynamic environment, and we especially look for team players with a high level of independence, reliability, and scientific creativity.

Benefits

• Competitive salary in agreement with the State of Geneva public sector and UNIGE standards
• Standard Swiss Social Security, Accident Insurance, and Pension contributions
• 30 days annual leave and special leave (maternity/paternity, etc.) in accordance with institutional standards

Schedule

Start date: Early 2027 (to be discussed).