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| ERC Postdoctoral Fellowship in Black Hole and Multiphase Astrophysics | Closing date: 2026-05-28
Contact: Massimo Gaspari |
| The ERC Consolidator Grant BlackHoleWeather is a cutting-edge initiative aimed at understanding how the feeding and feedback of supermassive black holes shape galaxies, groups, and clusters, linking macro- and micro-scales (Gaspari+20, Nat. Astron.). The successful candidate may contribute on the numerical side, by developing multiscale MHD simulations, or on the observational side, through multi-wavelength data analysis. Applications are welcome from observational and numerical backgrounds, with strong interest in candidates able to connect both approaches. | | ▸ more | Numerical track: running and analyzing high-resolution 3D multiscale MHD simulations on GPUs (e.g., AMR codes such as AthenaPK); implementing advanced physics (e.g., anisotropic conduction/viscosity, chemical networks, star formation, plasma physics, cosmic rays, general relativity); producing synthetic observables (X-ray, optical/IR, radio) and comparing them quantitatively with observations.
Observational track: reducing and analyzing multi-wavelength datasets (e.g., JWST/HST, Chandra/XMM/XRISM, ALMA/MeerKAT/LOFAR, MUSE); extracting physical, thermodynamic, and kinematic properties of multiphase gas and outflows; performing quantitative comparisons with the MHD simulations.
Cross-cutting activities: publishing first-author scientific papers, presenting results at international conferences, collaborating with global partners, playing a leading role within the BlackHoleWeather excellence team, mentoring students, developing independent ideas, and contributing to ERC deliverables such as datasets, pipelines, simulations, and synthetic products.
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* Application Details
The initial contract is for 2 years, with possible yearly renewals up to a duration of 5 years, subject to performance. The position might later open a path toward a tenure-track Assistant Professor opportunity through a separate competitive procedure. The starting date is preferred to be as soon as possible.
* Application Instructions
Please submit via the PICA platform (ENG or ITA; see link/PDF below for details) the following:
1. Research Statement (max 3 pages), indicating preferred track (numerical, observational, or combined), methodology, goals, and expected 12-24 month deliverables within BlackHoleWeather;
2. full CV, including publication list (links/DOIs) and up to 10 papers highlighted for evaluation, plus contact details of 3 academic referees;
3. motivational Cover Letter tailored to this position;
4. key Publications PDFs (up to 10 uploaded files);
5. Valid ID or passport.
Eligibility. Applicants must hold a PhD in Astronomy, Astrophysics, Physics, or a closely related field, or an equivalent qualification obtained abroad. Final-year PhD candidates may apply if the degree is expected within six months of the official call publication date, i.e. by 28 October 2026. The contract can be signed only after the PhD degree has been obtained, with valid PhD equivalence/recognition documentation where applicable. Working language: English (Italian not required).
Deadline: 28 May 2026, 13:00 CEST. Review begins immediately after the deadline; short-listed candidates will be invited to an interview, which may be held remotely, discussing prior research and problem-solving experience, scientific output, and core knowledge.
If you have any questions about the position or application procedure, do not hesitate to write to Prof. Gaspari: massimo.gaspari @ unimore.it
You are welcome to send your CV to Prof. Gaspari for pre-screening, but note that complete formal applications must be submitted through the official portal: https://pica.cineca.it/unimore/cdr-2026-008/
* Link to Online Application: https://shorturl.at/PeH63
* Included Benefits
Research benefits: extensive dedicated funds for travel, workshops, and international conferences, plus substantial research and computing resources within the 2 million Euro ERC BlackHoleWeather project, providing an exceptional environment to develop independent ideas and collaborations.
Retirement benefits: full enrollment in Italy's national pension system (INPS), with the employer covering the majority of contributions and annual TFR severance fully funded by the university, ensuring long-term social-security coverage and end-of-contract benefits.
Healthcare benefits: comprehensive coverage through the Italian National Health Service with no premiums required; optional private health insurance may also be supported by the employer for international researchers.
* Compensation Notes
The salary is among the most competitive for postdoctoral research scientists in Italy and includes full employee benefits. The cost of living in Modena and Emilia-Romagna is 2-3x lower than in many major Western European and US research hubs, while the region offers one of Europe's highest quality-of-life standards, combining rich culture, excellent food, strong public services, and affordable living.
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