Fixed-term: The funds for these posts are available for up to 3 years in the first instance.

Postdoctoral Research Assistants/Research Associates in Observational, X-Ray and Theoretical Astrophysics

The Institute of Astronomy (IoA) at the West Cambridge site expects to appoint postdoctoral researchers in the IoA's observational, X-ray and theoretical astrophysics programmes. The programmes are broadly defined and incorporate research undertaken by IoA faculty members.  The research includes observational and theoretical work in: exoplanetary detection, atmospheres and interiors; formation and evolution of stars and their planetary systems; Gaia satellite temporal science;  near-field cosmology; star formation in external galaxies; accretion discs; formation and evolution of galaxies, supermassive black holes and AGN; quasar absorption lines and the intergalactic medium;  gravitational lensing; X-ray studies of clusters of galaxies and active galaxies; cosmic microwave background, large scale structure and the early universe.

Successful applicants will be expected to pursue research within the context of the overall programme and to develop a high degree of interaction with the faculty, postdoctoral researchers and research students; to conduct a highly competitive programme of scientific research, prepare proposals to secure research resources (for example, access to high performance computing, large telescopes, or other international facilities) and write scientific articles for publication in peer reviewed journals. Applicants must have excellent communication and computing skills.

Applicants must have a Ph.D. in astronomy or a related field or be near to completion. The primary criteria for selection will be based on research excellence in observational and/or theoretical astronomy as detailed above. The current salary scale is £28,695 to £37,394 p.a. (Research Associate) or £24,775 to £28,695 (Research Assistant), depending on experience and qualifications, plus superannuation benefits

University benefits are outlined at http://www.admin.cam.ac.uk/offices/hr/staff/benefits/index.html

To apply online for this vacancy and to view further information about the role, please visit:

http://www.jobs.cam.ac.uk/job/8383. This will take you to the role on the University’s Job Opportunities pages. There you will need to click on the 'Apply online' button and register an account with the University's Web Recruitment System (if you have not already) and log in before completing the online application form.

Please submit your application by midday (GMT) of the closing date of Monday, 21st December 2015.  If you have any queries about your application, please email Ms Joy McSharry  (jpm(at)ast.cam.ac.uk). 

Please ensure that you upload your CV, cover letter, publications list and research statement in the upload section of the online application. If you upload any additional documents which have not been requested, we will not be able to consider these as part of your application. The names and contact details of three referees are a necessary part of the submission.  Referees will be contacted following your application but applicants are strongly advised to prepare nominated referees for the need to provide reference letters by midday (GMT) Wednesday, 6th January 2016.

Please quote reference LG07335 on your application and in any correspondence about this vacancy.

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