Research Collaborator - Cosmological Inference with Simulations (Open)

The Computational Cosmology group at the Donostia International Physics Center (DIPC), led by Prof. Raúl E. Angulo, invites applications for a postdoctoral position. The successful candidate will work on simulation-based modelling of cosmic probes, the large-scale structure of the Universe, and the inference of cosmological parameters, with the goal of predicting galaxy clustering, weak lensing and other observables directly as a function of the fundamental parameters of the Universe — dark energy, dark matter, neutrino masses and gravity on cosmological scales — and applying this framework to data from surveys such as DESI, Euclid and DES/KiDS. The work builds on the group's BACCO simulation project, which combines high-resolution N-body simulations, cosmology rescaling, baryonification and neural-network emulators, and offers considerable freedom to develop directions such as biased-tracer modelling, baryonic effects, field-level statistics or simulation-based inference. We seek a creative and self-motivated researcher with a strong background in cosmology, excellent computational skills, and a clear interest in bridging simulations and observational data.

Candidates should hold a PhD in Physics, Astrophysics or a closely related discipline by the starting date, with demonstrated research experience in cosmology or large-scale structure and a publication record appropriate to their career stage. Strong programming skills (Python essential; C/C++/Fortran, MPI or GPU an asset) and experience in Linux/HPC environments are required, together with hands-on experience in cosmological simulations and/or survey data analysis and familiarity with Bayesian inference methods. Experience with machine learning applied to physical problems, simulation-based inference, or membership of large survey collaborations is a significant advantage but not a requirement. We value independence and originality combined with a genuine willingness to collaborate, and excellent communication skills in English.

• Estimated annual gross salary: Salary is commensurate with qualifications and consistent with our pay scales
• Target start date: 2026/08/31

We provide a highly stimulating research environment, and unique professional career development opportunities.

We offer and promote a diverse and inclusive environment and welcomes applicants regardless of age, disability, gender, nationality, ethnicity, religion, sexual orientation or gender identity.

The position is based in the Computational Cosmology group at DIPC, in Donostia / San Sebastián, Spain, led by Raúl E. Angulo (Ikerbasque Research Professor). The team of 3 postdocs and 4 PhD students works on cosmological simulations, the galaxy–halo connection, weak lensing and baryons, dark matter and neutrino physics, and machine-learning-based inference, much of it organised around the BACCO simulation project (https://bacco.dipc.org). The group collaborates closely with international partners and survey collaborations across Europe and the Americas. DIPC is a Basque Excellence Research Centre and a "Severo Ochoa" Centre of Excellence, offering an international working environment, dedicated high-performance computing facilities, and generous travel and career-development support.

Interested candidates should submit an updated CV and a brief statement of interest to the following application email below. 

Reference letters are welcome but not indispensable.

The reference of the specific opening to which the candidate is applying should be stated in the subject line, and the application must be received before the application deadline.

Although candidates are welcome to contact the project supervisors to know further details about the proposed research activity, please be aware that the application will be evaluated only if it is submitted directly to the email address listed below as application email.

• Reference: 2026/38
• Application deadline: 2026/08/18
• Application email: jobs.research@dipc.org

Applications received by the deadline will be evaluated by a Committee designed by the DIPC board on the basis of the following criteria:

• CV of the candidate (40%)
• Adequacy of the candidate’s scientific background to the project (40%)
• Reference letters (10%)
• Other: Diversity in gender, race, nationality, etc. (10%)

Evaluation results will be communicated to the candidates soon after. Positions will only be filled if qualified candidates are found.

The DIPC may revoke its decision if the candidate fails to join by the appointed time, in which case the position will be awarded to the candidate with the next highest score, provided it is above 50 (out of 100).

However, the selected candidate may keep the position if, in the opinion of the Selection Committee, the candidate duly justifies the reasons why he or she cannot join before the specified deadline, and as long as the project allows it.

Proyecto PID2024-161003NB-100 financiado por MICIU/AEI/10.13039/501100011033/ FEDER, UE.