Information and Application: https://aas.org/jobregister/ad/cacc2530

Job Description

The Department of Astronomy (DAS) at the University of Chile invites applications for a postdoctoral position in high-energy astrophysics. The position focuses on the study of intergalactic magnetic fields (IGMFs) and cosmic-ray (CR) acceleration, with an emphasis on theoretical modeling of very-high-energy (VHE) gamma-ray emission from blazars and Galactic CR acceleration environments. A key component of the appointment involves the development of observational strategies using the Cherenkov Telescope Array Observatory (CTAO) to advance our understanding of these phenomena. The postdoctoral researcher will work under the supervision of Prof. Walter Max-Moerbeck (Department of Astronomy, FCFM, University of Chile) and Prof. Mario Riquelme (Department of Physics, FCFM, University of Chile).

The successful candidate will become part of the Department of Astronomy at the University of Chile, which includes twenty faculty members, approximately ten postdoctoral researchers, and a PhD/MSc program with around fifty graduate students. They will also engage with Chile’s dynamic and rapidly expanding high-energy astrophysics community. The appointment is for two years and is funded by Comité Mixto ESO-Gobierno de Chile. Possible extensions could be funded through external opportunities such as ANID–Fondecyt or the Center for Astrophysics and Related Technologies (CATA). The postdoctoral researcher will have access to a wide range of computational facilities at the University of Chile, including the National Laboratory for High Performance Computing (NLHPC). As a member of the Chilean astronomical community, the successful applicant will be eligible for 10% guaranteed access to all telescopes operating in Chile, including CTAO-South.

The anticipated start date is as early as April 2026, with some flexibility.

Compensation and Benefits

Compensation Type: Salary

Compensation Notes: This is a full-time postdoctoral appointment offering a competitive salary. The position includes dedicated research funds for the purchase of a laptop computer, as well as support for conference travel once per year.

Application Instructions

Applications should be submitted by email in PDF format to Prof. Walter Max-Moerbeck (wmax@das.uchile.cl) by February 28, 2026, using the subject line “UChile postdoc 2026 application” to receive full consideration. The application package must include: (i) a one-page cover letter, (ii) a research statement of up to three pages describing current and past research and outlining a proposed research plan at the University of Chile, and (iii) a CV including a publication list. Applicants should also arrange for two references to submit letters of recommendation directly to the same email address.

Publication Start Date: 2026 Jan 09

Application Deadline: 2026 Feb 28

Inquiries

Name: Walter Max-Moerbeck

Email: wmax@das.uchile.cl