Summary
The Heidelberg Institute for Theoretical Studies (HITS) invites applications for the HITS Independent Postdoc Program. This fellowship provides early-career researchers with the independence to explore ambitious, high-risk/high-gain research ideas and test new hypotheses in an interdisciplinary and international computational science environment. The program is designed to support researchers transitioning from PhD graduates to junior group leaders.
Designation
Independent Postdoctoral Fellow (Postdoctoral Researcher)
Overview Table
| Parameter | Details |
| Position | Independent Postdoctoral Fellow |
| Institution | Heidelberg Institute for Theoretical Studies (HITS gGmbH) |
| Location | Heidelberg, Germany (Hybrid) |
| Contract Type | Full-Time, Fixed-Term (2 years + optional 1-year extension upon evaluation) |
| Application Deadline | November 1, 2026 |
| Results Announcement | February 2027 |
| Contact Email | jobs@h-its.org |
Research Area
Theoretical, mathematical, and computer sciences with an emphasis on data-intensive computation and modeling. Proposed research agendas should align with one or more of the core HITS focus areas:
- Complex simulations across scales: From molecular biology to astrophysics.
- Making sense of data: From natural language processing (words) to climate/weather modeling.
- Enabling the future of reproducible, data-intensive research: Computational methods, software development, algorithms, and knowledge discovery.
Location
- City/Country: Heidelberg, Germany
- Work Mode: Hybrid / On-site at HITS gGmbH
Eligibility / Qualification
- Education: Must hold a Ph.D. or an equivalent academic qualification by the start date of the fellowship.
- Experience Limit: Up to 3 years post-PhD completion at the time of the application deadline (extensions may apply for documented career breaks such as parental leave).
- Affiliation Restrictions: Candidates must not have previously conducted research at HITS (except for short academic visits) and must not have published the main thread of their research in collaboration with a HITS group leader.
Job Description & Benefits
- Independent Research: Lead and execute an independent, self-driven research project while having the opportunity to collaborate with HITS research group leaders.
- Duration: Initial appointment of 2 years, with an option for a 1-year extension following a positive evaluation.
- Resources & Environment: Access to high-performance computing resources, close ties with Heidelberg University and Karlsruhe Institute of Technology (KIT), and a multidisciplinary research network.
- Compensation & Support: Competitive salary, relocation assistance, and childcare allowances.
How to Apply
Applications must be submitted through the official HITS Online Application System.
Required Application Materials:
- Curriculum Vitae (CV)
- Letter of Motivation addressing the question: “How would I benefit from doing research at HITS?”
- Project Proposal: Maximum 2 pages outlining your independent research idea.
- References: Contact information for two academic referees.
Note: Incomplete applications or submissions outside the online portal will not be considered.
Last Date for Apply
- Application Deadline: November 1, 2026
