The Nicolaus Copernicus Astronomical Center of the Polish Academy of Sciences (CAMK PAN) invites applications for a tenure-track position in stellar cluster astrophysics at its headquarters in Warsaw. The successful candidate is expected to conduct research at an internationally competitive level.
Applicants must hold a PhD in astronomy, astrophysics, or a related field, demonstrate a strong record of research productivity, and show a commitment to excellence in independent research. Experience in leading research groups and managing grants is highly desirable.
The tenure track position may lead to a permanent faculty position at CAMK PAN upon successful completion, which includes securing a major research grant (such as NCN OPUS, SONATA BIS, MAESTRO, or an equivalent), obtaining a habilitation degree in astronomy or a related discipline, and fulfilling the proposed research plan.
Specific Requirements
The successful candidate will be expected to establish an independent research program and, in the longer run, attract external funding. The position is open to applicants with research interest in observational and theoretical stellar cluster astrophysics, including: stellar dynamics, evolution of stellar clusters, dynamical interactions of binary systems, evolution of stars and binary systems in the field and star clusters, formation of intermediate-mass black holes, and numerical simulations of the evolution of stellar systems.
Benefits
The successful candidate will be offered a full-time, 5-year employment contract, which includes insurance and a pension scheme in accordance with national and CAMK PAN policies. The position offers a competitive salary of up to 11,000 PLN gross per month, subject to mandatory social security contributions and income tax in accordance with Polish law. This corresponds to an estimated net (take-home) salary of approximately 7,500–8,000 PLN per month, depending on individual tax circumstances.
Additionally, employees have access to a subsidized private healthcare plan and a funding-aided sports benefit. Further allowances may be available based on family circumstances, in accordance with Polish labor law. Relocation costs will be covered.
Questions about the position can be sent to: Agata Różańska – agata@camk.edu.pl
Application Process
Applicants should submit the following documents:
- A 1-page scientific statement, including a brief overview of the applicant’s research background and a justification for pursuing the position at CAMK PAN.
- Curriculum Vitae (CV) including education and employment records.
- A copy of the PhD diploma.
- A list of publications and information on involvement in scientific activities – such as membership in scientific groups/societies, participation in scientific conferences, internships and training programs, awards and distinctions.
- 3 to 4 letters of recommendation, to be sent directly by the referees to recruitment@camk.edu.pl.
- A scan of the signed GDPR consent form available at: https://www.camk.edu.pl/media/uploads_current/o_instytucie/rodo/rodo_deklaracja_ncn_ang.pdf
All documents must be submitted in PDF format, including scans, and sent to: recruitment@camk.edu.pl
Application deadline: June 20th, 2025
Preferred starting date: September 1st, 2025 (negotiable)
Selection Criteria and Process
The review of applications will begin soon after the deadline. The selection process will be carried out by a dedicated committee composed of members of the CAMK PAN Scientific Council. The initial selection will be based on the following criteria:
- Research achievements, including publications in prestigious academic journals and the candidate’s scientific statement and motivation for applying at CAMK PAN (50%).
- Research-related achievements, scholarships, awards, and research experience in Poland or abroad, research workshops and training courses, participation in research projects (30%).
- Demonstrated ability to carry out independent research, alignment with CAMK PAN research areas, particularly stellar cluster astrophysics (20%).
A shortlist of up to five candidates will be invited to interviews. They will also be required to submit a detailed research plan (5–10 pages) within two weeks, including: scientific goals and significance, concept and work plan, research methodology, team composition and qualifications (if applicable), plan for habilitation, and external funding strategy.
The final decision will be based on the interview and full submitted materials. The process will follow the principles outlined in the Code of Conduct for the Recruitment of Researchers.
Additional Comments
CAMK PAN is a leading astronomical institute in Poland, rated A+ by the Ministry of Science and Higher Education. Its research spans stellar astrophysics, binary systems, neutron stars, black holes, galaxy evolution, cosmology, exoplanets, and multi-messenger astronomy.
The institute is engaged in collaborations with H.E.S.S., CTA, Hyper-Kamiokande, DarkSide, LUMI-Q, VIRGO/LIGO/Kagra, ET, EGO, and more. It participates in missions such as eROSITA, THESEUS, PLATO, Ariel, BRITE, and ARAUCARIA, and operates observatories in Chile and the southern hemisphere (SOLARIS network).
CAMK PAN’s infrastructure includes high-performance computing clusters (>300 cores, GPUs, ~1 PB storage), with fast InfiniBand network and national grid access. Researchers have significant independence, guaranteed by the Code of Ethics of the Polish Academy of Sciences.
CAMK PAN enforces a Gender Equality Plan (2023–2026) and ensures non-discrimination and equal treatment in accordance with its Strategic Plan 2021+.
In line with Article 24(6) of the Whistleblower Protection Act (June 14, 2024), CAMK PAN provides reporting channels available at: https://www.camk.edu.pl/en/about/whistleblowers/
