The Institute for Solar Physics (KIS, Freiburg, Germany) invites applications for a two-year postdoctoral position (m/w/d) on the development of fast spectropolarimetric (Stokes) inversion techniques.
The goal of the project is to optimize existing Stokes inversion codes using graphical processing units (GPUs) and machine-learning (ML) algorithms, substantially increasing the speed at which spectropolarimetric data can be analyzed and enabling near-real-time processing and interpretation. The project is based on preliminary work at KIS that shows the feasibility of this approach. The final goal is to extend the resulting code to a range of instruments, prioritizing those at GREGOR and the VTF at DKIST.
Qualifications: Applicants should hold a PhD in physics, astrophysics, applied mathematics, or a related field. Experience with radiative transfer and/or Stokes inversion techniques is highly desirable, and prior work with spectropolarimetric observations is an advantage. Familiarity with GPU programming (e.g., CUDA) and machine-learning frameworks (e.g., PyTorch, TensorFlow, JAX) is also considered a plus.
The offer: The contract is for a period of 2 years. Salary and benefits are according to the rules for public employees of the State of Baden-Württemberg (TV-L) and German law, at the TV-L E-13 level. On top of the regular social security plans, it includes contributions to a supplementary pension plan, statutory health insurance, and a Christmas bonus.
The position could start as early as Jan. 1st, 2027. Deadline for applications: October 31st, 2026.
Applications, quoting reference “PostDoc ErUM-Pro”, should be sent as a single PDF to hr@leibniz-kis.de. The application should include a motivation letter, CV, list of publications, and the names and contact details of 3 references. Please state the earliest possible starting date.
For questions, please contact: Juan Manuel Borrero or Ivan Milic.