Postdoc Position in Laboratory Astrochemistry Full-time

Postdoc Position in Laboratory Astrochemistry

The Aarhus Laboratory Astrochemistry Group is seeking applications for a postdoctoral position in laboratory astrochemistry under supervision of Prof. Liv Hornekær at the Department of Physics and Astronomy at Aarhus University.

The successful applicants will participate in the experimental research activities under ERC Synergy Grant IRAstro and DNRF Center of Excellence for Interstellar Catalysis – InterCat. This combined project aims at elucidating how molecules on interstellar dust grain analogue surfaces organize, react and dissipate energy under low temperature and low pressure conditions mimicking dense interstellar dust and molecular clouds. The applicant will use low temperature scanning tunneling microscopy (STM), temperature programmed desorption, and (single molecule) IR spectroscopy to follow in situ reactions leading to complex molecule formation on realistic dust grain analogue surfaces. Close collaboration with theoreticians, observers and the experimental astrochemistry groups at Aarhus University and at the nodes of collaborative partners is expected.

The job includes:

• Mapping of catalytic pathways and reaction rates on interstellar dust grain analogue surfaces using STM, TPD, and RAIRS.
• Development, maintenance and troubleshooting on various experimental UHV setups
• Participating in maintenance of the group laboratories.
• Data analysis and writing scientific publications.
• Supervision of PhD, Master and bachelor students.
• Project administration, such as writing reports etc.

Candidates should have a PhD degree in physics or similar field, with strong experience in experimental surface science, UHV techniques, catalysis/reactions on surfaces and atomic scale characterization. A background in laboratory astrochemistry is preferred.

The ideal candidate has good collaboration skills and is also able to work independently.

This is a 2-year postdoc position expected to start 1 March 2027 or as soon as possible.

For further information, please contact: Prof. Liv Hornekær, liv@phys.au.dk.

Applications must be received no later than 28 October 2026.