INAF is seeking a Level III Researcher for WEAVE-StePS at the Capodimonte Observatory (Naples): public competition by September 30, 2026.

Opening

INAF is announcing a public competition for a fixed-term Level III researcher for WEAVE-StePS, based at the Capodimonte Observatory, Naples; applications are due by September 30, 2026.

What is it about

The competition is sponsored by the National Institute for Astrophysics (INAF) and involves the hiring of a full-time Level III researcher for an initial 12-month position within the WEAVE-StePS project. WEAVE stands for WHT Enhanced Area Velocity Explorer, a spectrographic and surveying facility aimed at measuring the physical properties of galaxies through spectra; WEAVE-StePS refers to the Stellar Population Survey component associated with the WEAVE project. The opportunity is open to those working in astrophysics or related engineering who wish to contribute with data post-processing, spectral analyses, and studies on the relationship between the age, shape, and dispersion of galaxies at various redshifts.

The professional figure

The Level III researcher profile is typically associated with a highly specialized and autonomous physics or engineering researcher. Activities envisaged within WEAVE-StePS include post-processing and quality control of the data reduction and analysis pipeline output, as well as scientific measurements derived from spectra. In common industry practice, a researcher at this level works in international teams, processes observational data, interprets results, contributes to scientific publications, and participates in surveys and instrumental projects. Key skills include physics/astrophysics, data analysis, scientific programming, use of pipelines, knowledge of spectroscopy, and the ability to work in an academic/research environment. The specific WEAVE-StePS activities complement this general profile description, focusing on the analysis of relationships between physical parameters of galaxies and the dynamics of stellar populations in cosmological contexts.

Main requirements

• Degree in Physics or Engineering (old system) or equivalent specialist/master's degree.
• PhD in Physics or Engineering or at least 3 years of postgraduate experience in research related to the competition, gained at universities, institutes, or research centers; international experience is also expected.
• Italian or EU citizenship; or membership in one of the categories indicated in Article 38 of Legislative Decree 165/2001 (various residence/professional career conditions).
• Age not less than 18 years and compatible with retirement according to current legislation.
• Physical fitness for continuous and unconditional service.
• Good knowledge of English (spoken and written) and adequate knowledge of Italian for foreign candidates.
• Declarations required in the application form regarding previous convictions, criminal proceedings, relationships with public administrations, and any conflicts of interest; absence of any disqualifications listed in the announcement.

Note: The requirements described here provide a general overview of the professional profile. For official requirements and required documents, please refer to the full call for applications available on the INPA page and the Capodimonte Observatory website.

Contract, positions and headquarters

Single position (1) for the Capodimonte Astronomical Observatory, Salita Moiariello 16, Naples (Campania). Fixed-term employment contract, full-time commitment, level III Researcher classification, first salary class. Initial duration of 12 months, with possible extension based on financial availability and the limits of the WEAVE-StePS project. The announcement refers to the "fundamental and accessory economic treatment" provided for by the current sector-specific collective bargaining agreements; the precise amount of the salary is not indicated in the official text consulted.

The selection

The evaluation process consists of qualifications and exams. Maximum overall score: 90 points, with 30 for qualifications and 60 for the exam. The exam may be written, theoretical-practical, or oral, at the discretion of the Commission, and will focus on topics related to the analysis of optical/spectroscopic data from medium-low redshift galaxies, mechanisms of galactic evolution, scaling laws, and knowledge of the English language. A pass grade of at least 42/60 is required for the exam. The date, time, and location of the exam will be announced on INPA, the INAF website, and the Capodimonte Observatory website at least 20 days in advance. Qualifications will be evaluated within 30 days of the exam and will be reserved for candidates who pass the exam. The announcement also specifies the criteria for assigning points to qualifications, scientific production, courses, work experience, and other qualifications.

Qualifications, scientific production, and additional documents indicated in the call for applications will be considered. Identity documents and any translations or certifications for qualifications obtained abroad are also required. Candidates must also demonstrate proven language skills and proficiency in Italian, if applicable.

Deadline and how to apply

Deadline: September 30, 2026, at 23:59 PM. Applications must be submitted online only via the InPA Recruitment Portal and/or the Cineca PICA platform. To access PICA, use the competition code 2026INAFRIC-OAC-WEAVE-006. Access to the system and receipt of submission will be automatic; alternative submission methods are not permitted. Communications following the results of the test, including schedules and results, will be published on the official channels indicated in the announcement.

Useful contacts: protocollo.oacn@inaf.it; certified email (PEC) inafoanapoli@pcert.postecert.it; telephone +39-081-5575-111.

What to check before applying

Before submitting your application, download and save the complete call for applications in PDF format, available from INPA or the Capodimonte Observatory website. Check the closing date and time and prepare the required documents: curriculum vitae and academic records (with a descriptive report of activities, publications, and courses), lists of qualifications and documentation proving the indicated qualifications, a copy of a valid ID, any authorized translations of foreign qualifications, and documentation for any aids or additional time for disabilities or learning disabilities. If you have qualifications obtained abroad, prepare the necessary documentation for equivalence, as indicated in the call for applications. It is advisable to keep a copy of the submitted application and periodically check the INPA page for any official communications.

Offer source: InPA.