Research Associate in Cosmic Microwave Background (CMB) Cosmology (Simons Observatory: UK Project)
Department: Institute of Astronomy (IoA), University of Cambridge
Salary: Research Associate, £36,024-£44,263 (Grade 7, Pts 41-48) Research Assistant, £29,605-£33,966 (Grade 5, Pts 34-39) if PhD thesis submitted but not yet awarded
Reference: LG38893
Category: Research
Published: 18 October 2023
Closing Date: 17 November 2023
The IoA invites applications for postdoctoral researchers to work on CMB cosmology as part of the Simons Observatory (SO):UK project. The SO is a next-generation CMB experiment under construction in the Atacama Desert (observations planned for 2024). Successful candidates will work with Anthony Challinor, Blake Sherwin & groups on development of the SO data-processing pipeline & delivery of Science Ready Data Products (SRDPs), focusing on validation of SRDPs for gravitational lensing studies & developing simulations to interpret high-resolution data from the Large-Aperture Telescope.
SO:UK is the UK contribution to the US-led SO project consisting of: a data centre; a program of algorithm development contributing to pipeline development; instrumentation contribution, providing two Small-Aperture Telescopes for degree-scale B-mode measurements; a UHF optics tube for deployment on SO's Large-Aperture Telescope. A key area is delivery of SRDPs.
Candidates must possess significant theoretical/analytic skills & experience in developing/applying analysis for precision CMB studies/relevant fields. Candidates will collaborate internationally with colleagues, will interact closely with staff and students, disseminate research findings via publications/media (international workshops/conferences), and are encouraged to participate in teaching and learning.
The IoA provides a vibrant research environment in cosmology. The interdepartmental Kavli Institute for Cosmology is located at IoA, fostering connections with those conducting complementary research.
Applicants must have a PhD in Astronomy or related field*. Applicants must possess a scientific publication record & a clear outline of current/future research areas. Applicants must have excellent communication & computing skills.
The appointment will be at Grade 7 (Research Associate) £36,024-£44,263 p.a. (Pts 41-48), depending on experience/qualifications. *A successful candidate, not yet awarded a PhD will be appointed at Grade 5 (Research Assistant) £29,605 to £33,966 p.a. (Pts 34-39) and amended to Research Associate (Grade 7) upon confirmation of PhD.
We have an active Equality and Diversity Committee, working to further the Athena SWAN charter aims and encourage applications from all sectors of society. The University has family-friendly initiatives, including returning-carer schemes, childcare cost support, nurseries/play-schemes, and shared parental-leave policy.
Click the 'Apply' button below to register an account. Please upload your CV, cover letter, publications list and research statement (3xA4 pages max, 11pt font) in the Upload section. Names and contact details of three academic referees are essential. Please advise referees that references will be requested by 27 November 2023.
Closing: 23:59 GMT, Friday 17 November 2023. Applications will be reviewed after closing & short-listed candidates selected for interview.
Fixed-term: This post is funded for three years initially.
Starting: Oct 2024 or earlier.
Successful candidates are required to undergo a health questionnaire. Applications are welcome from internal candidates, applying as a secondment.
We particularly welcome applications from women and /or candidates from a BME background for this vacancy as they are currently under-represented at this level in our department/institution/Faculty/School/University.
Click the 'Apply' button below to register an account with our recruitment system (if you have not already) and apply online.
If you have queries re. applying, please contact hr@ast.cam.ac.uk. Informal inquiries may be addressed to Prof.Anthony Challinor (a.d.challinor@ast.cam.ac.uk)/Prof. Blake Sherwin (sherwin@damtp.cam.ac.uk).
Please quote reference LG38893 on your application and in any correspondence about this vacancy.
The University actively supports equality, diversity and inclusion and encourages applications from all sections of society.
The University has a responsibility to ensure that all employees are eligible to live and work in the UK.
