PostDoc - Cosmology with the large-scale structure of the Universe (Open)

Post-doctoral position
Position category: PostDoc
Reference: 2025/46
Duration: 3 years
Application deadline: 2025/07/21
For more info contact the supervisors:
Raul Angulo
reangulo@dipc.org
How to apply

We are currently accepting applications for the above mentioned position. This is a unique opportunity for junior researchers with a recent PhD degree in Physics or related fields to join one of DIPC’s high-profile research teams.

The role

We invite applications for a research position in large-scale structure cosmology. The successful candidate will work on the theoretical and observational exploitation of galaxy clustering surveys to address fundamental questions in cosmology.

The selected researcher will contribute to the development and application of state-of-the-art techniques for analyzing galaxy clustering data from current and upcoming large-scale surveys. The project aims to extract cosmological information from the distribution of galaxies, using methods such as i) Modeling of galaxy clustering in configuration and Fourier space; ii) Baryon Acoustic Oscillations (BAO) and Redshift-Space Distortions (RSD) as cosmological probes, and iii) Machine learning and statistical methods for improved parameter estimation.

Desired background & competences

We are looking for a highly motivated researcher with a strong background in large-scale structure cosmology. The ideal candidate should have:

  • A PhD in physics, astronomy, or a related field.
  • Experience in the theoretical modeling and/or observational analysis of galaxy clustering.
  • Proficiency in scientific programming and statistical analysis (e.g., Python, C++, Julia, or similar languages).
  • Familiarity with large-scale structure datasets and cosmological simulations.
  • Ability to work both independently and as part of a research team.

Experience with machine learning techniques, Bayesian inference, and high-performance computing will be considered advantageous.

We encourage applications from researchers of diverse backgrounds and experiences. The position offers a stimulating research environment with opportunities for collaboration and career development.

Working conditions

  • Estimated annual gross salary: Salary is commensurate with qualifications and consistent with our pay scales
  • Target start date: 2025/10/01

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 center

DIPC is a research center whose mission is to perform and catalyze cutting-edge research in physics and related disciplines, as well as to convey scientific culture to society. Located in Donostia / San Sebastian (Basque Country, Spain), DIPC was born from a strategic alliance of both public institutions and private companies. Since 2008 DIPC is a 'Basque Excellence Research Center' (BERC) recognized by the Basque Government's Department of Education. In 2019, DIPC was also recognized as a "Severo Ochoa" Excellence Center by the Spanish Research Agency.

About the team

The position is part of an active research group focusing on the computational and statistical analysis of the large-scale structure of the Universe, with applications to dark matter, dark energy, and tests of fundamental physics. It is led by Prof. Raul Angulo, and currently consists of 4 PhD students and 3 Postdoctoral researchers. The candidate will have the opportunity to collaborate with international survey teams and contribute to the analysis of data from major cosmological surveys such as Euclid.

How to apply

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.

Selection process

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.