PostDoc in ML supported cloud formation modelling
The successful candidate will be part of Prof Christiane Helling's research group Exoplanets: Weather & Climate at the Space Research Institute (IWF) Graz. The project is conducted in collaboration with Prof Robert Peharz from the Graz University of Technology.
In this FWF funded project (Grant-DOI: 10.55776/PAT3166823), we are interested in understanding cloud formation in exoplanets and specifically the formation of molecular cluster as pre-coursers of cloud formation in the diversity of extrasolar planets. We aim to explore advanced neural network architectures, particularly Graph Neural Networks (GNNs) and generative models, to predict the three-dimensional structures and thermo-chemical properties of large molecular clusters—tasks that are computationally prohibitive using traditional methods like Density functional theory (DFT) and molecular dynamics. Our modelling efforts support JWST and CHEOPS in physically interpreting observational data. We further contribute to science case studies and science preparation for PLATO, the high-energy space mission NewATHENA as well as HWO.
Your Tasks
- Develop Neural Network models to predict three dimensional complex molecular cluster structures and thermo-chemical properties.
- Support cloud formation modelling.
- Support scientific data interpretation (e.g., CHEOPS, JWST) and preparation for future missions.
- Publication and support in proposal writing activities, and collaborate with group members.
Your Profile
Necessary to have:
- PhD in computational chemistry, theoretical astrophysics / physics , astrochemistry, or computer science.
- Experiences in programming.
- Experiences in scientific publishing.
- Beneficial to have:
- Experiences in astrochemistry, astrophysics, and cloud formation.
- Practical experience in addressing ML-based research problems
The appointment can begin 1st November 2025; but the starting date is negotiable. The post will be for 2 years initially but can be extended up to 3 years.
Fachgebiet
astrochemistry, cloud formation modelling, computational chemistry, or theoretical physics
Arbeitgeber
Arbeitsstätte
Stunden
40
Antrittsdatum
01. November 2025
Bewerbungsfrist
30. Juni 2025
Kontakt
Space Research Institute (IWF Graz)
office.iwf(at)oeaw.ac.at
+43 (316) 4120-400
Christiane Helling
Christiane.Helling(at)oeaw.ac.at
