Open positition

Job advertisement
Vacancy ID: 066/2026
Closing date: 1. May 2026

The Friedrich Schiller University Jena is a dynamic and innovation-driven university centrally located in Germany. With a broad range of disciplines, it shapes the future through excellent research and teaching. Its scientific excellence is reflected in the profile areas Light – Life – Liberty, which provide pioneering insights and sustainable solutions for the society of tomorrow. Through close collaborations with leading research institutions, innovative companies, and renowned cultural organizations, it advances interdisciplinary developments. With around 17,000 students and approximately 10,000 employees, it defines Jena as a vibrant, internationally connected city of science and innovation.

The Institute of Theoretical Physics at the Faculty of Physics and Astronomy has a vacancy for two

PhD positions in the field of gravitational-waves and numerical relativity (theory)

commencing on August, 1. 2026
We offer a part-time position (50%, 20 hours per week)

The Gravitational-wave and Numerical relativity Working Group investigates questions relating to gravitational waves from compact binaries, relativistic and multimessenger astrophysics, and numerical methods for Einstein equations and relativistic fluids.

Your responsibilities:
• Working on your own scientific qualification project (doctorate)
• Conducting research projects in the field of gravitational theory with reference to gravitational-wave modeling, relativistic astrophysics and numerical relativity
• Co-supervising bachelor's and master's students
• Teaching in bachelor's and master's programs to the extent of 2 LVS

Your profile
• A completed master's degree in physics with a thesis in theoretical physics and/or computational physics
• We require in-depth knowledge of theoretical physics; knowledge of relativity theory is essential; Previous experience in the areas of gravitational-wave theory/modeling, multi-messenger astrophysics with compact objects, and/or astrophysical computer simulations is desirable
• Ability to work independently and organizational skills

We offer:
• Interesting work at an international level and participation in international conferences
• A graduate academy for doctoral students
• Remuneration based on the provisions of the Collective Agreement for the Public Sector of the Federal States (TV-L) at salary scale E13 50%, including a special annual payment in accordance with the collec -ive agreement
• 30 days of vacation per calendar year plus two days off on December 24 and 31
• An exciting/varied/interesting field of employment / Autonomous work at one of the largest employers in Thuringia / An exciting and varied scope of activities with creative freedom
• A family-friendly working environment with a variety of offers for families: University Family Office JUniFamilie’ and flexible childcare (‘JUniKinder)

The position is a fixed-term position initially limited for three years; an extension is possible.
Candidates with severe disabilities will be given preference in the case of equal qualifications and
suitability.

Are you eager to work for us? Then apply by May 1st, 2026 using our online form.

                                                                    Online applicationExternal link

For further information on your application and the collection of personal data, please refer to our Privacy Statement for Applicants de

ob advertisement
Vacancy ID: 067/2026
Closing date: 1. June 2026

The Friedrich Schiller University Jena is a dynamic and innovation-driven university centrally located in Germany. With a broad range of disciplines, it shapes the future through excellent research and teaching. Its scientific excellence is reflected in the profile areas Light – Life – Liberty, which provide pioneering insights and sustainable solutions for the society of tomorrow. Through close collaborations with leading research institutions, innovative companies, and renowned cultural organizations, it advances interdisciplinary developments. With around 17,000 students and approximately 10,000 employees, it defines Jena as a vibrant, internationally connected city of science and innovation.

The Faculty of Physics and Astronomy/The Institute of Theoretical Physics seeks to fill the position
of a

Research assistant in the field of gravitational-wave and numerical relativity (theory)

commencing on 01. October 2026
We offer a full-time position (40 hours per week).

As our new ‘research assistant you will investigates questions relating to gravitational waves from compact binaries, relativistic and multimessenger astrophysics, and numerical methods for Einstein equations and relativistic fluids.

Your responsibilities:
• Conducting research projects in the field of gravitational theory with reference to gravitational-wave odelling, relativistic astrophysics and numerical relativity
• Develop, coordinate, manage and publish research projects within the indicated field, including high- performance computing
• Co-supervising bachelor's and master's students
• Teaching in bachelor's and master's programs to the extent of 4 LVS

Your profile:
• An excellent PhD degree in physics with focus in gravitation theory, gravitational waves, numerical relativity and/or computational astrophysics
• Proven experience and track record in the areas of gravitational-wave theory/modeling, multimesser-astrophysics with compact objects, and/or astrophysical computer simulations is desirable.
• Ability to work independently and organizational skills

We offer:
• Remuneration based on the provisions of the Collective Agreement for the Public Sector of the Federal States (TV-L) at salary scale E13 full-time — precise salary scale depending on the candidate’s personal qualifications—, including a special annual payment in accordance with the collective agreement
• 30 days of vacation per calendar year plus two days off on December 24 and 31
• An exciting, varied and interesting field of employment. Autonomous work at one of the largest employers in Thuringia
• A graduate academy for doctoral students
• A family-friendly working environment with a variety of offers for families: University Family Office ‘JUniFamilie’ and flexible childcare (‘JuniKinder)

The position is a fixed-term position initially limited for two years; an extension is possible up to five years.
Candidates with severe disabilities will be given preference in the case of equal qualifications and suitability.

Are you eager to work for us? Then apply by June 1, 2026 using our online form.

                                                                              Online applicationExternal link
For further information on your application and the collection of personal data, please refer to our Privacy Statement for Applicants de