About us:

We invite applications for a PhD position in observational and theoretical cosmology at the newly established Emmy Noether Research Group of Jiamin Hou at LMU.

The Emmy Noether group at LMU will focus on exploiting the next generation of galaxy surveys to study the large-scale structure of the Universe with unprecedented precision. We are particularly interested in developing and applying higher-order clustering statistics to extract cosmological information from ongoing and upcoming galaxy surveys. These methods will provide complementary constraints on cosmological parameters, tests of fundamental physics, and of signatures of early-Universe physics.

We are looking for you:

PhD Position in Large-Scale Galaxy Clustering and Higher-Order Statistics (m/f/x)

in Munich

Your tasks and responsibilities:

The successful candidate will contribute to the development and application of statistical tools to analyze galaxy clustering data from surveys such as DESI, Euclid, and Roman. Depending on interest and background, the work may include data analysis, modeling of cosmological signals, machine learning, and/or interpretation of results in the context of theoretical models.

Your qualifications:

• You have completed, or are close to completing, an M.Sc. degree in physics, astronomy, cosmology, or a closely related field.
• You have prior research experience in at least one of the following areas: large-scale structure, cosmological data analysis, statistical methods in astrophysics, galaxy surveys, or related theoretical and computational fields.
• Experience with scientific programming (e.g. Python, C/C++, Julia, or similar) is an advantage.
• You are a team player, motivated to contribute within an international and collaborative research environment, and enthusiastic about learning new methods and developing independent research expertise.

Benefits:

• The position is expected to start in April 2026, with flexibility.A fully funded PhD position at LMU Munich within the Emmy Noether group of Jiamin Hou.
• Employment according to the German public service pay agreement, including health insurance, pension contributions, and other social security benefits.
• The opportunity to work at the forefront of cosmological research, with access to current and upcoming survey data (e.g., DESI, Euclid, Roman), and to collaborate with international survey teams.
• Optional participation in the structured graduate school program of the International Max Planck Research School (IMPRS), run jointly by LMU, the Max Planck Institutes for Astrophysics and Extraterrestrial Physics, and the European Southern Observatory.
• A supportive mentorship environment with opportunities for research visits, conference travel, and networking within the international cosmology community.
• A stimulating local community: LMU’s University Observatory is embedded in Munich’s strong astrophysics ecosystem, including the Max Planck Institutes for Astrophysics and Extraterrestrial Physics, ESO headquarters, TUM, and the DFG Cluster of Excellence ORIGINS.
• Company pension scheme
• Capital forming payments
• Compatibility between family and work:
  • Flexible work times
  • Support by childcare (e.g. offer of vacations- and emergency childcare)
• Development programs in all career steps
• Offer of health protecion activities
• Theater and culture: special events, discounts and flyers
• Mobility: jobtickets, charging stations for electric cars, and discounted membership by Share Now (Carsharing).

People with disabilities who are equally as qualified as other applicants will receive preferential treatment.

Contact:

Please upload the following documents in electronic form (as a single PDF) to Jiamin.Hou@physik.uni-muenchen.de:

• A cover letter outlining your motivation and research interests
• A CV including names and contact details of at least two references
• Transcripts of your university education
• Links to theses, publications, or other research outputs

Application deadline is December 15, 2025.

For inquiries about this position, please contact Jiamin Hou directly at Jiamin.Hou@physik.uni-muenchen.de

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