PostDoc in Exoplanet Atmospheres / PostDoc in Exoplanet Atmospheres

Join the University of Bern

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Start Date

December 1, 2026, or by arrangement.

Employment Relationship

Fixed-term position.

Institution / Workplace

Space Research and Planetary Sciences

About the Project

We are seeking a fully-funded Postdoctoral Fellow at the University of Bern to contribute to our research on the atmospheres of transiting sub-Neptunes. The selected fellow will be part of the SNSF-funded "Exo-Neptune Census" starting grant, led by Assistant Professor Hugh Osborn. This project aims to conduct a population-level analysis of sub-Neptune radii, masses, and atmospheres to gain insights into the formation, composition, and evolution of these intriguing exoplanets.

The Postdoctoral Fellow will focus on extracting atmospheric volatile abundances and bulk planetary volatile compositions from JWST observations of sub-Neptunes.

The Exo-Neptune Census, funded for five years, also includes PhD students engaged in detecting new Neptune-like exoplanets in photometric time series and characterizing their bulk properties with various space- and ground-based facilities, including CHEOPS, HARPS, HARPS-N, ESPRESSO, and more. The successful candidate will have opportunities to collaborate with PD Dr. Daniel Kitzmann, Prof. Brice-Olivier Demory, and their teams, who offer key expertise in atmospheric observations and retrievals, as well as theoretical modeling of interior structures and planetary evolution from Professors Yann Alibert and Christoph Mordasini. The group has strong connections with ongoing projects at the Geneva Observatory and ETH Zurich.

Your Profile

The ideal candidate will possess:

• Expertise in applying Bayesian statistical methods to astronomical datasets.
• Experience modeling exoplanetary transits.
• Deep knowledge of atmospheric physics (e.g., chemistry, radiative transfer).
• A proven track record as an independent researcher.
• Experience with extracting spectra from JWST time series data and retrieving abundances.
• Theoretical expertise in connecting sub-Neptune interiors and atmospheres.

The fellow will play a crucial role in the IN/AT-SYNC JWST large program targeting the atmospheres of sub-Neptunes in resonant systems (Co-PI: Osborn) and will help obtain additional JWST transmission spectra of sub-Neptunes.

Additionally, PostDocs are expected to assist with teaching and may supervise Master's projects while mentoring existing PhD students.

We Offer

The Physics Institute in Bern hosts multiple research groups focused on both exoplanet and solar system astronomy, fostering a welcoming and egalitarian environment. The University of Bern ranks among the top 200 global universities, located in an international city frequently celebrated for its livability. PostDoc salaries are internationally competitive, and the position is funded for two years, with the possibility of a one-year extension. We welcome applications from candidates of diverse backgrounds, including those with non-linear career paths.

The annual salary is based on a matrix established by the Swiss National Fund, and child allowances and maternity/paternity leave are offered.

Your Benefits

• International reputation
• Team-oriented work environment
• Central location in the heart of Bern
• Access to university sports facilities

Working at the University of Bern

The University of Bern not only presents exciting opportunities but also nurtures an environment that promotes development, diversity, and equal opportunities. Discover what distinguishes us as an employer and learn how you can grow alongside us.

Application Process

Apply online using the form below. Only applications matching the job profile will be considered.

Contact Information

If you have any questions regarding the position, please reach out to:

Prof. Dr. Hugh Osborn
hugh.osborn@unibe.ch

We look forward to your application!