The Stellar Physics group at the ICCUB welcomes expressions of interest from outstanding postdoctoral researchers to jointly apply for the 2025 Marie Skłodowska-Curie Postdoctoral Fellowship (MSCA-PF-2025) through the European Commission. The group offers expert mentoring and comprehensive guidance throughout the application process to help candidates develop competitive proposals.
The research developed at the Stellar Physics group covers different stages of star formation, stellar evolution all the way from dust to life, and the study of stellar environments and their planetary systems. We aim to develop a multi-scale, multi-disciplinary approach to answer these three main questions:
1 - How do stars form?
2 - How do stars evolve in isolation; in multiple systems and as a population?
3 - How does atmospheric activity (e.g., stellar winds, flares, coronal mass ejections), including the Sun, impact their environment and how does this affect the habitability of exoplanets?
To this end, the research activity of our group focuses on the following topics:
- Star formation with a multiwavelength approach, covering from radio to high energy spectral range.
- Evolution of stellar binary stars with time-domain astrophysical datasets (transients, variable and eclipsing systems, etc.), spectroscopic characterization, and stellar evolution models.
- Analysis and modeling of solar particle events as well as the development of solar particle radiation interplanetary environment prediction models.
- Understanding the impact of stellar activity (flares) over planetary atmospheres and habitability.
- Stellar astrophysical parameter estimation and stellar characterization from astrometry, photometry, and spectroscopy.
- Understanding different stellar populations within the Milky Way with large astrophysical datasets (Gaia, future GaiaNIR, the spectroscopic WEAVE survey…).
- New instrumentation for astrophysics for Montsec Observatory.
The members of the group have leading and collaboration roles in major collaborations in the field of stellar physics, such as Gaia Data Analysis and Processing Consortium, Euclid, BlackGEM time-domain survey, Transient and Variable Science collaboration within the Vera Rubin Observatory (LSST), SKA and “The VLA Orion A Large Survey” collaboration, Solar Orbiter and PLATO missions, and the UV-optical CubeSat mission PhotSat, entirely led by the Institute of Space Sciences of Catalonia (IEEC). In addition, the group has ongoing collaborations with European and international research institutions (Caltech, Radboud University, KU Leuven, Universidad Nacional de Mexico, among others), which can enhance the internationalization of our member’s research.
The group can offer support for computing time in the Institute of Cosmos Sciences cluster. The fellow will have the opportunity to develop a career development plan and be part of a mentorship program.
REQUIREMENTS:
We are excited to support candidates with expertise related to the main research areas carried in our group, both from observational and theoretical perspectives. In particular, we are interested in exploring projects that can exploit the synergies between the major research lines in stellar physics, and also with other research groups at the ICCUB, such as the high energies group, the gravitational waves group, the galaxy structure and evolution, and the technological unit.
Eligible Researchers
Researchers can be of any nationality and must:
- Be in possession of PhD at the call deadline.
- A maximum of 8 years full-time research experience after the date of award of the doctoral degree.
- Not have resided or carried out their main activity in the country of the recruiting beneficiary (Spain) for more than 12 months in the 36 months immediately before the call deadline.
- Researchers who are refugees in an EU MS or HEU AC according to the Geneva Convention may also apply to both Fellowships, irrespective of whether they are long-term residents or not.
- GPF researchers must be nationals or long-term residents of EU MS or HEU AC.
Applicants who apply and choose our institute as Host Institution for a MSCA Postdoctoral Fellowships (European or Global) proposal can benefit from dedicated support, which specifically consists of:
- Mentorship program
- On-demand support with dedicated staff
Financial Support
The salary conditions of a MSCA Postdoctoral Fellow are very competitive in relation to the average cost of living in Barcelona. It provides the following yearly funding:
- Monthly living allowance: 5.990€ per month (to be adjusted using the corresponding country coefficient).
- Mobility allowance: 710€ per month.
- Family allowance: 660€ per month.
How to Apply
To express your interest and submit your application, please send the following documents to jobs@icc.ub.edu:
- A cover letter outlining your research interests and motivation
- Your CV (including a list of publications)
- A brief research proposal (1–2 pages)
- Contact information for two referees
Please include “MSCA-PF-2025 Application – Stellar Physics Group” in the subject line of your email.
HOST INSTITUTION
The Institute of Cosmos Sciences (ICCUB) at the University of Barcelona, Unit of Excellence Maria de Maeztu, established in 2006, focuses on cosmology, astrophysics, particle physics, quantum physics, and nuclear physics. With over 70 scientists, 20 engineers, and 90 postdoctoral researchers and PhD students (35% international), ICCUB collaborates internationally on projects like Gaia, LHCb, Virgo, MAGIC, CTA, and DESI. It also has an Advanced Technology Unit supporting experimental research requiring cutting-edge technology.
From 2019 to 2023, ICCUB published 1,463 articles, averaging 8.86 citations per paper (compared to UB’s 2.45). Despite being only 2.9% of UB’s staff, ICCUB secured 8 ERC grants (16% of UB’s total) over the last 10 years and twice received the Maria de Maeztu seal of excellence. Executed funding from 2020 to 2023 includes €21.3 million in competitive, €2.2 million in non-competitive, and €1.6 million from private sources.
ICCUB is very active in organizing events, such as international workshops, seminars and colloquia, 438 between 2019-23, and courses on transferable skills. Additionally, ICCUB engages in graduate training, technology transfer (including a spin-off company, DAPCOM, patents, and €170,000 from collaborations with CERN, INFT, CIEMAT, and private companies), and scientific outreach. More details and educational materials are available on their websites, Serviastro and Serviparticulas.
The goal of Marie Sklodowska-Curie Actions (MSCA) Postdoctoral Fellowships is to enhance the creative and innovative potential of researchers holding a PhD and who wish to acquire new skills through advanced training, international, interdisciplinary and inter-sectoral mobility.
MSCA Postdoctoral Fellowships will be open to excellent researchers of any nationality. The scheme also encourages researchers to work on research and innovation projects in the non-academic sector and is open to researchers wishing to reintegrate in Europe, to those who are displaced by conflict, as well as to researchers with high potential who are seeking to restart their careers in research.
All domains of research and technological development are eligible for funding.
Fellowship types:
There are two types of fellowships:
1. European Postdoctoral Fellowships (EPF)
- EPF are open to researchers of any nationality who wish to engage in R&I projects by either coming to Europe from any country in the world or moving to Europe
- EPF must last between 12 and 24 months
2. Global Postdoctoral Fellowships (GPF)
- GPF are open to European nationals or long-term residents who wish to engage in R&I projects with organisations outside European Union and Associated Countries.
- GPF must last between 24 and 36 months (12-24 outgoing phase and 12 months mandatory return phase in Europe)
For both types:
- An additional period of up to six months can be awarded to support researchers seeking a placement at the end of the project to work on R&I projects in an organisation from the non-academic sector.
- Researchers may opt to include a worldwide secondment phase, within the overall duration of their fellowship. The secondment phase cannot exceed one third of the standard fellowship duration (EPF) or the outgoing phase (GPF)
Eligible Researchers
Researchers can be of any nationality and must:
- Be in possession of PhD at the call deadline.
- A maximum of 8 years full-time research experience after the date of award of the doctoral degree.
- Not have resided or carried out their main activity in the country of the recruiting beneficiary (Spain) for more than 12 months in the 36 months immediately before the call deadline.
- Researchers who are refugees in an EU MS or HEU AC according to the Geneva Convention may also apply to both Fellowships, irrespective of whether they are long-term residents or not.
- GPF researchers must be nationals or long-term residents of EU MS or HEU AC.
Financial Support
The salary conditions of a MSCA Postdoctoral Fellow are very competitive in relation to the average cost of living in Barcelona. It provides the following yearly funding:
- Monthly living allowance: 5.990€ per month (to be adjusted using the corresponding country coefficient).
- Mobility allowance: 710€ per month.
- Family allowance: 660€ per month.
Application procedure
Your supervisor should be a researcher at the Institute of Cosmos Sciences of the University of Barcelona, please get in touch with him or her and express your interest in joining our institute.
The deadline is September 3, 2025 and the results are expected to be public by early 2026.
What can the ICCUB do for you?
The International Research Projects Office at the University of Barcelona offers support to applicants and guidance throughout this process: eligibility check, info sessions, feedback on the draft proposal and runs a Mentoring programme specifically designed for MSCA applicants (subject to availability).
Please get in touch with us at your earliest convenience if you are planning on applying.
About us
The Institute of Cosmos Sciences is a research institute of the University of Barcelona. It is an interdisciplinary center dedicated to fundamental research in the fields of cosmology, astrophysics, and particle physics. In addition, the institute has a strong technology program through its participation in international collaborations in observational astronomy and experimental particle physics.
As part of the University of Barcelona, the ICCUB is a recipient of the European Commission’s HR Excellence in Research (HRS4R) Award, which recognises, among other achievements, respect for equal opportunities and the capacity to attract talent in a positive working environment that promotes the pursuit of successful research careers. The ICCUB respects the principles of open, transparent, merit-based selection. We strongly encourage women and underrepresented minorities to apply. For additional information please see the Diversity, equity and inclusion Commission.
The ICCUB is located in Barcelona, considered the 8th World's Best Cities 2021: one with near-perfect weather year-round, miles and miles of beaches, iconic parks, striking architecture and colorful neighborhoods that march to their own beat—artistic, sophisticated, bohemian. Moreover, it is a pole of attraction for the technology sector, a top choice to establish a company in this sector, and it hosts some of the world's major technological events, such as the Mobile World Congress and the Smart City Expo. In addition, Barcelona and its metropolitan area is a leading destination on the map of global technological ecosystems and has infrastructures such as science parks, universities and the 22@ district.
“La Caixa” Foundation is launching a postdoctoral fellowships program in which candidates will be able to conduct a research project at accredited centres with the Severo Ochoa or María de Maeztu excellence award, Institutos de Investigación Sanitaria Carlos III and units evaluated as excellent by the Fundação para a Ciência e Tecnologia of Portugal.
Description of our Institute:
The Institute of Cosmos Sciences of the University of Barcelona (ICCUB) is an interdisciplinary center devoted to fundamental research in the fields of cosmology, astrophysics and particle physics. In addition, the Institute has a strong technology program through its participation in international collaborations in observational astronomy and experimental particle physics. Moreover, the institute is an interdisciplinary centre with more than 70 long-term scientists, 20 engineers and 80 postdoctoral researchers (55% international) and PhD students (30% international) offering an international and multicultural environment.
The ICCUB has been awarded the Maria de Maeztu distinction which recognizes our leadership and research impact. Our main lines of research, as well as the associated faculty members, can be found here.
The ICCUB is concerned about the under representation of women, as well as other underrepresented minorities in the fields of sciences of the cosmos, and therefore strongly encourages their application.
The ICCUB is located in Barcelona, considered the 6th World's Best Cities: one with near-perfect weather year-round, miles and miles of beaches, iconic parks, striking architecture and colourful neighbourhoods that march to their own beat—artistic, sophisticated, bohemian. Moreover, it is a pole of attraction for the technology sector, a top choice to establish a company in this sector, and it hosts some of the world's major technological events, such as the Mobile World Congress and the Smart City Expo. In addition, Barcelona and its metropolitan area is a leading destination on the map of global technological ecosystems and has infrastructures such as science parks, universities and the 22@ district.
Junior Leader Fellowships Programme Description:
The Postdoctoral Junior Leader fellowships programme is aimed at hiring excellent researchers, of any nationality, who wish to continue their research career in Spain or Portugal in the STEM area (Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics). The objectives of this programme are to foster high-quality, innovative research in Spain and Portugal and to support the best scientific talent by providing them with an attractive, competitive environment in which to conduct excellent research.
The Postdoctoral Junior Leader fellowships programme is divided into two different frames:
Incoming programme:
-
Postdoctorate Junior Leader – Incoming: 20 postdoctoral fellowships for researchers of all nationalities. They will be offered a three-year employment contract to conduct a research project at accredited centres with the Severo Ochoa or María de Maeztu excellence award, Institutos de Investigación Sanitaria Carlos IIII and units evaluated as excellent by the Fundação para a Ciência e Tecnologia of Portugal.
For Spanish institutions, candidates must have resided in Spain less than 12 months in the last three years while for Portuguese institutions, candidates must have resided in Portugal less than 12 months in the last three years. - 3 years maximum duration
- Maximum amount: €320,100.
- Programme of training in multidisciplinary skills
Requirements:
Researchers of any nationality are eligible for the Postdoctoral Junior Leader fellowships programme. In order to get accepted, candidates must meet the following requirements:
-
Experience: They should have earned their doctoral degree two to seven years prior to the deadline of the call for applications. The date of the doctoral thesis defence will be understood as the date when the doctoral degree was obtained. In the cases of interruption of the research activity between the date of obtaining the doctoral degree and the call deadline, the candidate may request an extension of the period in which the doctoral degree must have been obtained.
-
Geographic mobility:
For candidates applying to Spanish centres or units: Candidates must not have resided or have carried out their main activity (work, studies, etc.) in Spain for more than twelve months in the three years immediately preceding the closing date of the call. Short stays, such as holidays, will not be taken into account.For candidates applying to Portuguese units: Candidates must not have resided or have carried out their main activity (work, studies, etc.) in Portugal for more than twelve months in the three years immediately preceding the closing date of the call. Short stays, such as holidays, will not be taken into account.
Special mobility condition could apply for the in the cases of interruption of the research activity or researchers who have spent time in the procedure for obtaining the refugee status under the Geneva Convention.
-
Complete applications: Only candidates whose applications meet all the requirements of the call may be accepted.
Application: ”la Caixa” fellowship application website
Retaining programme:
-
-
Postdoctorate Junior Leader – Retaining: 20 fellowships to carry out a postdoctoral research project at any university or research centre in Spain or Portugal.
- 3 years maximum duration
- Maximum amount: €320,100.
- Programme of training in multidisciplinary skills
Requirements:
Researchers of any nationality are eligible for the Retaining modality of the Postdoctoral Junior Leader fellowships. To be eligible for admission, candidates must meet the following requirements:
-
Experience: Experience: have been awarded a PhD between two and seven years prior to the closing date of the call. The date of obtaining the PhD will be understood as the date the doctoral thesis is defended. Special deadlines apply for candidates with interrupted research careers.
Candidates must have carried out research stays at a centre or university outside Spain (or outside Portugal for those joining a Portuguese centre), during their doctoral or postdoctoral studies, for a total of at least 6 months before the closing date of the call. -
Geographic mobility:For candidates interested in Spanish centres or universities: candidates must have resided or carried out their main activity (work, studies, etc.) in Spain for more than 12 months in the three years immediately preceding the closing date of the call.
Special deadlines will apply for candidates with interrupted research careers and for those who've gone through the process to obtain refugee status under the Geneva Convention.
-
Complete applications: Only candidates whose applications meet all the requirements of the call may be accepted.
Application: ”la Caixa” fellowship application website
-
The Institute of Cosmos Sciences of the University of Barcelona (ICCUB) invites applications for a Postdoctoral position in Quantum Resources for Science and Technology, as part of its current call for two postdoctoral positions and one ICCUB Postdoctoral Fellowship, offered under the framework of its Unit of Excellence Maria de Maeztu.
These positions are part of a dynamic and interdisciplinary research environment at one of Europe’s leading centers in cosmology, astrophysics, and particle physics. The Institute of Cosmos Sciences (ICCUB) at the University of Barcelona, established in 2006, focuses on cosmology, astrophysics, particle physics, quantum physics, and nuclear physics. With over 70 scientists, 20 engineers, and 90 postdoctoral researchers and PhD students (35% international), ICCUB collaborates internationally on projects like Gaia, LHCb, Virgo, MAGIC, CTA, and DESI. It also has an Advanced Technology Unit supporting experimental research requiring cutting-edge technology.
Description of the postdoctoral position
The candidate is expected to contribute substantially to the ICCUB-Maria de Maeztu Challenge: Exploiting quantum resources for science and technology
The rapidly unfolding second quantum revolution hinges on harnessing quantum entanglement and superposition to advance our understanding of nature at a fundamental level and to develop novel technologies. Key facets include quantum communication, computation, hardware, sensing, and imaging, with potential extensive applications across scientific and technological domains.
These developments are poised to have an unprecedented impact on communication security and on our computational capacity, driving global efforts in this field. Quantum hardware represents the current frontier, involving development of entangled-source qubits, quantum memories, quantum networks and sensors.
We take on this challenge with a strong multidisciplinary drive, a newly established quantum communications laboratory, and quantum computation and simulation. The latter includes basic science contributions to quantum simulation, and the development of algorithms to advance our understanding of many-body quantum systems with quantum computers.
Requirements:
Applicants must hold a PhD in Physics, Astrophysics, or a closely related field by the start date of the contract, approximately in October 2026. We are looking for motivated researchers with a strong track record and a collaborative spirit.
Employment Terms:
- Duration: up to 3 years
- Start Date: Preferably by Fall 2026 (flexibility possible for parental or special circumstances)
- Salary:
- Maria de Maeztu Postdoctoral Positions: Approx. 36.360€/year (gross), including full social security and public healthcare coverage for the researcher, spouse or registered partner and children
- ICCUB Postdoctoral Fellowship: Approx. 42.900€/year (gross), including full social security and public healthcare coverage for the researcher, spouse or registered partner and children
- Research Support:
- Fellowship: €8,000/year for travel and training
- Postdoctoral Positions: €5,000/year for travel and training
- Access to ICCUB’s advanced computational infrastructure, training programs, and career development resources
Equal Employment Opportunity Statement
ICCUB offers and promotes a diverse and inclusive environment and welcomes applicants regardless of age, disability, gender, nationality, race, religion or sexual orientation (for additional information please see the Diversity, Equity and Inclusion Commission. Job seekers in need of a reasonable accommodation to complete the application process should call or email secretaria@icc.ub.edu with their request.
Application Process:
To apply, please complete the application form and provide contact details for three referees. After submission, you will receive instructions to upload the following documents:
- Curriculum Vitae
- Cover Letter
- Research statement (max 4pp) outlining research experience, interests, research plan and how the candidate’s profiles and research plan would fit with the scientific profile of the position(s)
- Publication List
- Three Reference Letters (referees will be contacted directly)
Reference letters must be sent directly by the referees through the on-line application system (the system will contact these scientists you named, asking them to submit their letters of reference after a few working days).
Note: Applicants should select their preferred job offer.
Note: Your application will only be considered complete once at least two reference letters have been received.
For questions regarding the application process, please contact Esther Pallarès at secretaria@icc.ub.edu.
Deadline
Application deadline: 31 October, 2025
Review of applications will begin immediately after the deadline and will continue until all positions are filled.
Selection process:
The selection process consists of two phases: merit-based evaluation and an interview.
1. Merit-Based Evaluation
The Selection Committee will verify and assess the merits documented by the applicants. The maximum score for this phase is 80 points, distributed across the following categories:
Curriculum Vitae — Maximum: 30 points
The following aspects will be assessed:
- Scientific and technical contributions in the relevant research field.
- Quality and impact of publications, particularly those where the applicant is the lead author.
- Participation in research projects, collaborations, and scientific dissemination activities.
- Teaching experience, supervision of academic work and mentoring (e.g., theses, dissertations).
Alignment with the María de Maeztu Challenge — Maximum: 30 points
The following aspects will be assessed:
- A research statement that is ambitious, innovative, and clearly aligned with the objectives of the María de Maeztu Challenge.
- Potential for high-impact contributions within the proposed research line.
- Strategic use of relevant infrastructures and resources.
Reference Letters — Maximum: 20 points
The following aspects will be assessed:
- Strength and relevance of the recommendations.
- Evidence of the applicant’s research capabilities, independence, and potential for future contributions.
2. Interview: maximum 20 points
Applicants who score at least 50 points in the merit-based evaluation will be invited to an interview. The interview will be conducted in English and may take place online via a video conferencing platform.
Format and Content
- A presentation by the candidate: The presentation will last up to 20 minutes.
- Applicants will present their professional profile, focusing on how it aligns with the position and the María de Maeztu Challenge.
- They will also outline their vision for future scientific development and how they plan to contribute to the research environment.
Following the presentation, the Selection Committee may ask questions related to:
- The applicant’s research background and achievements.
- The proposed research statement.
- Any other relevant aspects of the application.
Scoring Criteria — Maximum: 20 points
- Up to 10 points for the alignment of the applicant’s profile with the objectives of the position.
- Up to 10 points for the clarity, feasibility, and impact of the applicant’s future research vision.
A minimum of 10 points is required to pass the interview phase.
Funding:
These positions are financed by the State Agency for Research of the Spanish Ministry of Science, Innovation and Universities through the "Unit of Excellence María de Maeztu 04/2019-03/2031" awarded to the Institute of Cosmos Sciences, grant CEX2024-001451-M funded by MICIU/AEI/10.13039/501100011033.
The Unit of Excellence Maria de Maeztu recognition has been awarded by the Spanish Government in 2025 for the third time to the ICCUB, as a center with a highly competitive strategic research programmes in the frontiers of knowledge.
The Institute of Cosmos Sciences of the University of Barcelona (ICCUB) invites applications for two postdoctoral positions and one ICCUB Postdoctoral Fellowship, offered under the framework of its Unit of Excellence Maria de Maeztu. All positions are funded for up to 3 years.
The three scientific profiles are as follows:
- Position in Beyond the standard models of cosmology and particle physics
- Position in Gravitational wave physics
- Position in Quantum Resources for Science and Technology
These positions are part of a dynamic and interdisciplinary research environment at one of Europe’s leading centers in cosmology, astrophysics, and particle physics. The Institute of Cosmos Sciences (ICCUB) at the University of Barcelona, established in 2006, focuses on cosmology, astrophysics, particle physics, quantum physics, and nuclear physics. With over 70 scientists, 20 engineers, and 90 postdoctoral researchers and PhD students (35% international), ICCUB collaborates internationally on projects like Gaia, LHCb, Virgo, MAGIC, CTA, and DESI. It also has an Advanced Technology Unit supporting experimental research requiring cutting-edge technology.
Requirements:
Applicants must hold a PhD in Physics, Astrophysics, or a closely related field by the start date of the contract, approximately in October 2026. We are looking for motivated researchers with a strong track record and a collaborative spirit.
Employment Terms:
- Duration: up to 3 years
- Start Date: Preferably by Fall 2026 (flexibility possible for parental or special circumstances)
- Salary:
- Maria de Maeztu Postdoctoral Positions: Approx. 36.360€/year (gross), including full social security and public healthcare coverage for the researcher, spouse or registered partner and children
- ICCUB Postdoctoral Fellowship: Approx. 42.900€/year (gross), including full social security and public healthcare coverage for the researcher, spouse or registered partner and children
- Research Support:
- Fellowship: €8,000/year for travel and training
- Postdoctoral Positions: €5,000/year for travel and training
- Access to ICCUB’s advanced computational infrastructure, training programs, and career development resources
Equal Employment Opportunity Statement
ICCUB offers and promotes a diverse and inclusive environment and welcomes applicants regardless of age, disability, gender, nationality, race, religion or sexual orientation (for additional information please see the Diversity, Equity and Inclusion Commission. Job seekers in need of a reasonable accommodation to complete the application process should call or email secretaria@icc.ub.edu with their request.
Application Process:
To apply, please complete the application form and provide contact details for three referees. After submission, you will receive instructions to upload the following documents:
- Curriculum Vitae
- Cover Letter
- Research statement (max 4 pp) outlining research experience, interests, research plan and how the candidate’s profiles and research plan would fit with the scientific profile of the position(s)
- Publication List
- The contact of three Reference Letter writers (referees will be contacted directly)
Reference letters must be sent directly by the referees through the on-line application system (the system will contact these scientists you named, asking them to submit their letters of reference after a few working days). Applications will only be considered once at least two reference letters have been received.
Note: Applicants should select their preferred job offer.
Note: For questions regarding the application process, please contact Esther Pallarès at secretaria@icc.ub.edu.
Deadline
Application deadline: November 30th, 2025
Review of applications will begin immediately after the deadline and will continue until all positions are filled.
Selection process:
The selection process consists of two phases: merit-based evaluation and an interview.
1. Merit-Based Evaluation
The Selection Committee will verify and assess the merits documented by the applicants. The maximum score for this phase is 80 points, distributed across the following categories:
Curriculum Vitae — Maximum: 30 points
The following aspects will be assessed:
- Scientific and technical contributions in the relevant research field.
- Quality and impact of publications, particularly those where the applicant is the lead author.
- Participation in research projects, collaborations, and scientific dissemination activities.
- Teaching experience, supervision of academic work and mentoring (e.g., theses, dissertations).
Alignment with the María de Maeztu Challenge — Maximum: 30 points
The following aspects will be assessed:
- A research statement that is ambitious, innovative, and clearly aligned with the objectives of the María de Maeztu Challenge.
- Potential for high-impact contributions within the proposed research line.
- Strategic use of relevant infrastructures and resources.
Reference Letters — Maximum: 20 points
The following aspects will be assessed:
- Strength and relevance of the recommendations.
- Evidence of the applicant’s research capabilities, independence, and potential for future contributions.
2. Interview: maximum 20 points
Applicants who score at least 50 points in the merit-based evaluation will be invited to an interview. The interview will be conducted in English and may take place online via a video conferencing platform.
Format and Content
- A presentation by the candidate: The presentation will last up to 20 minutes.
- Applicants will present their professional profile, focusing on how it aligns with the position and the María de Maeztu Challenge.
- They will also outline their vision for future scientific development and how they plan to contribute to the research environment.
Following the presentation, the Selection Committee may ask questions related to:
- The applicant’s research background and achievements.
- The proposed research statement.
- Any other relevant aspects of the application.
Scoring Criteria — Maximum: 20 points
- Up to 10 points for the alignment of the applicant’s profile with the objectives of the position.
- Up to 10 points for the clarity, feasibility, and impact of the applicant’s future research vision.
A minimum of 10 points is required to pass the interview phase.
Funding:
These positions are financed by the State Agency for Research of the Spanish Ministry of Science, Innovation and Universities through the "Unit of Excellence María de Maeztu 04/2019-03/2031" awarded to the Institute of Cosmos Sciences, grant CEX2024-001451-M funded by MICIU/AEI/10.13039/501100011033.
The Unit of Excellence Maria de Maeztu recognition has been awarded by the Spanish Government in 2025 for the third time to the ICCUB, as a center with a highly competitive strategic research programmes in the frontiers of knowledge.
The Institute of Cosmos Sciences of the University of Barcelona (ICCUB) invites applications for a 3-year Postdoctoral position in Beyond the standard models of cosmology and particle physics, as part of its current call for two postdoctoral positions and one ICCUB Postdoctoral Fellowship, offered under the framework of its Unit of Excellence Maria de Maeztu.
These positions are part of a dynamic and interdisciplinary research environment at one of Europe’s leading centers in cosmology, astrophysics, and particle physics. The Institute of Cosmos Sciences (ICCUB) at the University of Barcelona, established in 2006, focuses on cosmology, astrophysics, particle physics, quantum physics, and nuclear physics. With over 70 scientists, 20 engineers, and 90 postdoctoral researchers and PhD students (35% international), ICCUB collaborates internationally on projects like Gaia, LHCb, Virgo, MAGIC, CTA, and DESI. It also has an Advanced Technology Unit supporting experimental research requiring cutting-edge technology.
Description of the postdoctoral position:
Efforts to understand the ultimate laws of nature and the structure and composition of the Universe have so far been carried out almost independently within the fields of particle physics, astrophysics, and cosmology. This siloing is now hampering progress, as the disciplines that study the very large and the very small have become inextricably intertwined. Each has converged to its own extremely successful Standard Model (SM): the SM of particle physics (PP) and the standard cosmological model or Lambda Cold Dark Matter (LCDM) model, with many aspects in common. Yet both models show signs of being incomplete, pointing to the need for new physics with profound implications for our understanding of matter, forces, and the Universe's components themselves.
Finding out what that new physics may or may not be can only be achieved with a coordinated approach from theoretical modelling to data analysis, and a holistic context covering expertise in all the disciplines involved. The successful candidate should have demonstrated expertise and interest in one or more of these aspects:
- Precision measurements in Experimental Particle Physics
- Robust analysis and interpretation of cosmological data especially galaxy surveys
- Neutrino properties at the intersection of particle physics and cosmology
- Dark matter distribution, clustering and detection from cosmic scales down to Earth.
The successful candidate is expected to work across different research groups at the ICCUB:
- Cosmology and Large Scale Structure
- Particle Physics Phenomenology
- Galaxy Structure and Evolution
- Experimental High Energy Physics
Requirements:
Applicants must hold a PhD in Physics, Astrophysics, or a closely related field by the start date of the contract, approximately in October 2026. We are looking for motivated researchers with a strong track record and a collaborative spirit.
Employment Terms:
- Duration: up to 3 years
- Start Date: Preferably by Fall 2026 (flexibility possible for parental or special circumstances)
- Salary:
- Maria de Maeztu Postdoctoral Positions: Approx. 36.360€/year (gross), including full social security and public healthcare coverage for the researcher, spouse or registered partner and children
- ICCUB Postdoctoral Fellowship: Approx. 42.900€/year (gross), including full social security and public healthcare coverage for the researcher, spouse or registered partner and children
- Research Support:
- Fellowship: €8,000/year for travel and training
- Postdoctoral Positions: €5,000/year for travel and training
- Access to ICCUB’s advanced computational infrastructure, training programs, and career development resources
Equal Employment Opportunity Statement
ICCUB offers and promotes a diverse and inclusive environment and welcomes applicants regardless of age, disability, gender, nationality, race, religion or sexual orientation (for additional information please see the Diversity, Equity and Inclusion Commission. Job seekers in need of a reasonable accommodation to complete the application process should call or email secretaria@icc.ub.edu with their request.
Application Process:
To apply, please complete the application form and provide contact details for three referees. After submission, you will receive instructions to upload the following documents:
- Curriculum Vitae
- Cover Letter
- Research statement (max 4pp) outlining research experience, interests, research plan and how the candidate’s profiles and research plan would fit with the scientific profile of the position(s)
- Publication List
- Three Reference Letters (referees will be contacted directly)
Reference letters must be sent directly by the referees through the on-line application system (the system will contact these scientists you named, asking them to submit their letters of reference after a few working days).
Note: Applicants should select their preferred job offer.
Note: Your application will only be considered complete once at least two reference letters have been received.
For questions regarding the application process, please contact Esther Pallarès at secretaria@icc.ub.edu.
Deadline
Application deadline: November 30th, 2025
Review of applications will begin immediately after the deadline and will continue until all positions are filled.
Selection process:
The selection process consists of two phases: merit-based evaluation and an interview.
1. Merit-Based Evaluation
The Selection Committee will verify and assess the merits documented by the applicants. The maximum score for this phase is 80 points, distributed across the following categories:
Curriculum Vitae — Maximum: 30 points
The following aspects will be assessed:
- Scientific and technical contributions in the relevant research field.
- Quality and impact of publications, particularly those where the applicant is the lead author.
- Participation in research projects, collaborations, and scientific dissemination activities.
- Teaching experience, supervision of academic work and mentoring (e.g., theses, dissertations).
Alignment with the María de Maeztu Challenge — Maximum: 30 points
The following aspects will be assessed:
- A research statement that is ambitious, innovative, and clearly aligned with the objectives of the María de Maeztu Challenge.
- Potential for high-impact contributions within the proposed research line.
- Strategic use of relevant infrastructures and resources.
Reference Letters — Maximum: 20 points
The following aspects will be assessed:
- Strength and relevance of the recommendations.
- Evidence of the applicant’s research capabilities, independence, and potential for future contributions.
2. Interview: maximum 20 points
Applicants who score at least 50 points in the merit-based evaluation will be invited to an interview. The interview will be conducted in English and may take place online via a video conferencing platform.
Format and Content
- A presentation by the candidate: The presentation will last up to 20 minutes.
- Applicants will present their professional profile, focusing on how it aligns with the position and the María de Maeztu Challenge.
- They will also outline their vision for future scientific development and how they plan to contribute to the research environment.
Following the presentation, the Selection Committee may ask questions related to:
- The applicant’s research background and achievements.
- The proposed research statement.
- Any other relevant aspects of the application.
Scoring Criteria — Maximum: 20 points
- Up to 10 points for the alignment of the applicant’s profile with the objectives of the position.
- Up to 10 points for the clarity, feasibility, and impact of the applicant’s future research vision.
A minimum of 10 points is required to pass the interview phase.
Funding:
These positions are financed by the State Agency for Research of the Spanish Ministry of Science, Innovation and Universities through the "Unit of Excellence María de Maeztu 04/2019-03/2031" awarded to the Institute of Cosmos Sciences, grant CEX2024-001451-M funded by MICIU/AEI/10.13039/501100011033.
The Unit of Excellence Maria de Maeztu recognition has been awarded by the Spanish Government in 2025 for the third time to the ICCUB, as a center with a highly competitive strategic research programmes in the frontiers of knowledge.
The Institute of Cosmos Sciences of the University of Barcelona (ICCUB) invites applications for a 3-year Postdoctoral position in gravitational wave physics, as part of its current call for two postdoctoral positions and one ICCUB Postdoctoral Fellowship, offered under the framework of its Unit of Excellence Maria de Maeztu.
The successful candidate will lead projects spanning both theoretical and data analysis aspects of gravitational wave science. Research topics may include, but not be limited to parameter estimation, gravitational lensing, numerical relativity simulations, detector characterization, mock data generation, neutron star asteroseismology, magnetohydrodynamic modeling of neutron stars and multimessenger signals, stellar/BH dynamics, tests of general relativity, relations to high energy and nuclear physics and connections to holography. The ICCUB is a member of the LVK Collaboration, the Einstein Telescope Collaboration and is contributing to the LISA mission on theoretical models, computing and instrumentation activities. We are also part of the Spanish RedONGRA network (Red Nacional en Ondas Gravitacionales), which fosters national collaboration in gravitational wave research. In addition, we are actively participating in surveys (ESA-Gaia, Weave, SDSS-IV) and EM follow-up missions at various wavelengths (BlackGEM, MAGIC and LSST), which allow scientists at the ICCUB (https://icc.ub.edu/research/gravitational-waves) to build an end-to-end understanding of all steps leading to GW sources. Prior research experience in gravitational wave data analysis is preferred, but not strictly required. Experience with large-scale computation, Bayesian methods, and/or machine learning/AI is considered a plus.
These positions are part of a dynamic and interdisciplinary research environment at one of Europe’s leading centers in cosmology, astrophysics, and particle physics. The Institute of Cosmos Sciences (ICCUB) at the University of Barcelona, established in 2006, focuses on cosmology, astrophysics, particle physics, quantum physics, and nuclear physics. With over 70 scientists, 20 engineers, and 90 postdoctoral researchers and PhD students (35% international), ICCUB collaborates internationally on projects like Gaia, LHCb, Virgo, MAGIC, CTA, and DESI. It also has an Advanced Technology Unit supporting experimental research requiring cutting-edge technology.
Requirements:
Applicants must hold a PhD in Physics, Astrophysics, or a closely related field by the start date of the contract, approximately in October 2026. We are looking for motivated researchers with a strong track record and a collaborative spirit.
Employment Terms:
- Duration: up to 3 years
- Start Date: Preferably by Fall 2026 (flexibility possible for parental or special circumstances)
- Salary:
- Maria de Maeztu Postdoctoral Positions: Approx. 36.360€/year (gross), including full social security and public healthcare coverage for the researcher, spouse or registered partner and children
- ICCUB Postdoctoral Fellowship: Approx. 42.900€/year (gross), including full social security and public healthcare coverage for the researcher, spouse or registered partner and children
- Research Support:
- Fellowship: €8,000/year for travel and training
- Postdoctoral Positions: €5,000/year for travel and training
- Access to ICCUB’s advanced computational infrastructure, training programs, and career development resources
Equal Employment Opportunity Statement
ICCUB offers and promotes a diverse and inclusive environment and welcomes applicants regardless of age, disability, gender, nationality, race, religion or sexual orientation (for additional information please see the Diversity, Equity and Inclusion Commission. Job seekers in need of a reasonable accommodation to complete the application process should call or email secretaria@icc.ub.edu with their request.
Application Process:
To apply, please complete the application form and provide contact details for three referees. After submission, you will receive instructions to upload the following documents:
- Curriculum Vitae
- Cover Letter
- Research statement (max 4pp) outlining research experience, interests, research plan and how the candidate’s profiles and research plan would fit with the scientific profile of the position(s)
- Publication List
- Three Reference Letters (referees will be contacted directly)
Reference letters must be sent directly by the referees through the on-line application system (the system will contact these scientists you named, asking them to submit their letters of reference after a few working days).
Note: Applicants should select their preferred job offer.
Note: Your application will only be considered complete once at least two reference letters have been received.
For questions regarding the application process, please contact Esther Pallarès at secretaria@icc.ub.edu.
Deadline
Application deadline: November 30th, 2025
Review of applications will begin immediately after the deadline and will continue until all positions are filled.
Selection process:
The selection process consists of two phases: merit-based evaluation and an interview.
1. Merit-Based Evaluation
The Selection Committee will verify and assess the merits documented by the applicants. The maximum score for this phase is 80 points, distributed across the following categories:
Curriculum Vitae — Maximum: 30 points
The following aspects will be assessed:
- Scientific and technical contributions in the relevant research field.
- Quality and impact of publications, particularly those where the applicant is the lead author.
- Participation in research projects, collaborations, and scientific dissemination activities.
- Teaching experience, supervision of academic work and mentoring (e.g., theses, dissertations).
Alignment with the María de Maeztu Challenge — Maximum: 30 points
The following aspects will be assessed:
- A research statement that is ambitious, innovative, and clearly aligned with the objectives of the María de Maeztu Challenge.
- Potential for high-impact contributions within the proposed research line.
- Strategic use of relevant infrastructures and resources.
Reference Letters — Maximum: 20 points
The following aspects will be assessed:
- Strength and relevance of the recommendations.
- Evidence of the applicant’s research capabilities, independence, and potential for future contributions.
2. Interview: maximum 20 points
Applicants who score at least 50 points in the merit-based evaluation will be invited to an interview. The interview will be conducted in English and may take place online via a video conferencing platform.
Format and Content
- A presentation by the candidate: The presentation will last up to 20 minutes.
- Applicants will present their professional profile, focusing on how it aligns with the position and the María de Maeztu Challenge.
- They will also outline their vision for future scientific development and how they plan to contribute to the research environment.
Following the presentation, the Selection Committee may ask questions related to:
- The applicant’s research background and achievements.
- The proposed research statement.
- Any other relevant aspects of the application.
Scoring Criteria — Maximum: 20 points
- Up to 10 points for the alignment of the applicant’s profile with the objectives of the position.
- Up to 10 points for the clarity, feasibility, and impact of the applicant’s future research vision.
A minimum of 10 points is required to pass the interview phase.
Funding:
These positions are financed by the State Agency for Research of the Spanish Ministry of Science, Innovation and Universities through the "Unit of Excellence María de Maeztu 04/2019-03/2031" awarded to the Institute of Cosmos Sciences, grant CEX2024-001451-M funded by MICIU/AEI/10.13039/501100011033.
The Unit of Excellence Maria de Maeztu recognition has been awarded by the Spanish Government in 2025 for the third time to the ICCUB, as a center with a highly competitive strategic research programmes in the frontiers of knowledge.