PhD Position on the Phenomenology of Self-Interacting Dark Matter

For our location in Hamburg we are seeking:

Remuneration Group 13 | Limited: 3 years | Starting date: earliest possible | ID: FHDO021/2025 | Deadline: 31.12.2025 | Full-time/Part-time

DESY, with more than 2900 employees at its two locations in Hamburg and Zeuthen, is one of the world's leading research centres. Its research focuses on decoding the structure and function of matter, from the smallest particles of the universe to the building blocks of life. In this way, DESY contributes to solving the major questions and urgent challenges facing science, society and industry. With its ultramodern research infrastructure, its interdisciplinary research platforms and its international networks, DESY offers a highly attractive working environment in the fields of science, technology and administration as well as for the education of highly qualified young scientists.

We invite applications for a PhD position in the field of self-interacting dark matter phenomenology, jointly hosted by the DESY Theory Group and the Observatory of the University of Hamburg. Situated at the intersection of astronomy and particle physics, the successful candidate will carry out theoretical research on dark matter phenomenology, with a particular focus on cosmological simulations and their implications for astrophysical observations.

This position is part of the Excellence Cluster Quantum Universe, which performs research to understand mass and gravity at the interface between quantum physics and cosmology. The research team includes leading scientists from mathematics, particle physics, astrophysics, and cosmology at the University of Hamburg and DESY. We offer a vibrant international environment, access to world-class research facilities, and participation in a structured mentoring programme to support academic and professional development. Doctoral research associates will become members of the Quantum Universe Research School (QURS), which provides academic and key skills training, as well as career planning support. In addition, they will receive individual budgets to facilitate the attendance of summer schools and conferences, and to support other educational measures. Additional travel money for project-specific duties will be provided by the hosting research groups. Doctoral researchers may participate in teaching at the University and in the organization of the Cluster via an early career council.

Late applications may still be considered until the position is filled.