The International Space Science Institute (ISSI) is an Institute of advanced studies in the space sciences (Astrophysics, Heliophysics, Planetary Sciences and Earth Science), located in Bern, Switzerland.
ISSI invites applications for a part time (30%) position of
Director of Heliophysics or Planetary Science
starting on October 1, 2026. The appointee will be a member of the Directorate of ISSI.
The internationally recognised scientific stature of the Directors ensures the visibility and the scientific excellence of the activities carried out at the Institute in their field of expertise. The current Directorate is composed of the Executive Director and three Directors who bring expertise in the scientific areas that ISSI covers, as described above. The Directors inspire and manage ISSI’s activities in their scientific field: breakthrough workshops, workshops, fora, international teams, working groups, and the Institute’s visiting scientist programme.
The new Director will bring an established international reputation in Heliophysics or Planetary Science and their scientific expertise will complement the composition of the Directorate. They will be responsible for the Heliophysics or Planetary Science area of the ISSI scientific portfolio. Specific expertise in Solar System science will be an added asset, and as well a good knowledge of ISSI, ESA, and the worldwide space science community.
The appointment will be made by ISSI for a period of four years (with the possibility for an extension to be discussed in due time).
Applications should contain
- a motivation letter (<3 pages)
- a brief Curriculum Vitae (<5 pages)
- a list of publications.
For inquiries about the position, interested scientists may contact the chair of the Search Committee: Dr. Linda Tacconi, member of the ISSI’s Board of Trustees linda@mpe.mpg.de.
Job Announcement (pdf)
Applications, in a single pdf file, should be uploaded through the online submission form below no later then May 4, 2026.
