The Theoretical Astrophysics and Cosmology group at IGFAE invites expressions of interest from candidates wishing to apply to the 2026 Juan de la Cierva (JDC) fellowship call (https://www.aei.gob.es/en/announcements/announcements-finder/ayudas-contratos-juan-cierva-2026) with IGFAE as the host institution. 

IGFAE (https://igfae.usc.es) is a joint centre of the Universidade de Santiago de Compostela and Xunta de Galicia. Faculty members in the theoretical astrophysics and cosmology group include Marta Reina Campos, Juan Calderón Bustillo, Antón Baleato Lizancos, and Gonzalo Alonso Álvarez, with active research programmes in galaxy and star formation, gravitational waves, CMB & large-scale structure, dark matter and particle cosmology. Successful fellows will benefit from the stimulating research environment at IGFAE spanning particle physics, nuclear physics, high-energy astrophysics and quantum science and technology. 

The fellowship provides a 3-year full-time employment contract, with a gross salary €31,200/year plus an additional €15,000 over the grant period for research mobility and activities. We expect to endorse at least one candidate; applications from outstanding researchers in any area of theoretical astrophysics or cosmology will be considered. 

Eligibility: Applicants must hold a PhD obtained between 1 January 2024 and 31 December 2026 (extensions possible for career interruptions; see the official call to verify full eligibility requirements). 

To be considered for our endorsement, please send the following materials by Nov 1 through AcademicJobsOnline: 

•  A 2-page CV 
•  A one-page document covering: (1) a brief research proposal describing the work you would pursue at IGFAE, and (2) a statement of your eligibility for the call 

Shortlisted candidates will be contacted for further discussion before the official call deadline (Nov 26th 2pm CET). We particularly encourage applications from underrepresented groups in physics.