Scientific software engineer (f/m/d) in SWI Science Operations
Scientist Göttingen
Astronomy & Astrophysics
Job Code: Planeten: Scientific Software engineer-Rezac-11/26
Job Offer from November 10, 2026
The Max Planck Institute for Solar System Research (MPS) in Göttingen is one of the world's leading research institutions in the fields of solar physics and planetary research, with approximately 300 employees. The interdisciplinary research focus lies in the investigation of the development, diversity, and dynamics of planets, moons, small bodies, the Sun, and solar-like stars. MPS develops and operates scientific instruments for current and future space missions (e.g., ESA, NASA) and conducts cosmochemical laboratory investigations of meteorites as well as numerical modeling on state-of-the-art supercomputers.
For the development and consolidation of the science planning pipeline of the Submillimetre Wave Instrument (SWI) as part of ESA's Jupiter Icy Moon Explorer (JUICE) mission to Jupiter, the institute seeks an application for a Scientific software engineer (f/m/d) in SWI Science Operations.
This position, within the Planetary Atmospheres research group and specifically within the Submillimetre Wave Instrument (SWI) project, offers a unique opportunity to contribute to both the technical and scientific challenges of space research on a cutting-edge planetary mission. We are looking for a candidate with a proactive and solution-oriented mindset who is willing to learn and apply new concepts and techniques.
We are seeking a highly motivated Scientific Software Engineer (f/m/d) to join our team, focusing on the development and integration of physics models into the SWI ground segment and science operations framework. These include hardware simulators as well as expected science data modeling. This role sits at the intersection of software engineering, data science, and instrument operations, offering a unique opportunity to shape how science data is processed, calibrated, and interpreted in real mission contexts.
You will play a key role in advancing the SWI software infrastructure from data pipelines to mission planning tools by embedding physically accurate models that enable precise interpretation of observations and support autonomous, science-driven operations.
Your tasks
- Maintain, enhance, and build upon existing SWI science operations tools and ground segment data pipeline (mostly Python)
- Integrate these models into science operations workflows, enabling predictive simulations for observation planning and calibration
- Contribute to the development of automated science operations systems, including scheduling, anomaly detection, and real-time data assessment
- Collaborate closely with the SWI science team, mission operations, and software engineers to ensure seamless integration of models into the ground segment
Your qualification
- A PhD, MSc (or soon-to-be-completed PhD) in Physics, Astronomy, Planetary Science, Applied Mathematics, or a related field, including science software engineering
- A solid Python programming skills, C language, Docker and Gitlab familiarity
- Proactive mindset, strong problem-solving skills, and the ability to work in a collaborative, interdisciplinary environment
- Good command of spoken and written English
We offer
- A dynamic, international research environment at the forefront of planetary science and space instrumentation
- The opportunity to contribute to a flagship ESA mission with long-term scientific impact
- Support for professional development, including training, conference participation, and collaboration with leading institutions
- A supportive team with strong expertise in both software engineering and planetary science
Additional information
- The position is rated in accordance with the Public Service Act (TVöDBund) as EG 13
- The position can be filled from January 2027 (an earlier start can be considered)
- Initial contract is until the end of 2027; extension may be possible depending on project funding
- Application deadline is Nov 30, 2026
We look forward to receiving your informative application documents (cover letter, CV, references, certificates). If you have any questions, please do not hesitate to contact Dr. Ladislav Rezac.
