Senior Research Associate in Transient Astrophysics

Physics Salary: £38,205 to £44,263 Closing Date: Friday 22 September 2023 Interview Date: Tuesday 24 October 2023 Reference: 0913-23

The Lancaster University Physics Department seeks to appoint a postdoctoral researcher to work on scientific research related to transient and time- sensitive astrophysics. The position is funded initially for 1 year, with further extensions (of up to 3 years) possible, and comes with funding for travel, computing, and professional development.

You will join a group working across multiple disciplines to solve major data analysis problems in order to advance scientific research and address time- sensitive, real-world issues. The group, led by Dr Brooke Simmons, works in multiple fields of astrophysics as well as in humanitarian earth observation, incorporating data science, machine learning and citizen science practices. You will be expected to participate in group research and contribute expertise in transient astrophysics, specifically in areas related to characterising and following up interesting transient phenomena (including but not limited to supernovae), including those identified via LSST brokers. There will also be opportunities for you to become involved in existing Zooniverse citizen science projects, and/or to create new projects to label data and collaborate with citizen scientists on that platform.

You will also be encouraged to pursue independent research in areas relevant to the group. People with skills including working with large astronomical surveys and/or catalogues, statistical techniques, source classification and/or clustering techniques are all encouraged to apply. Prospective candidates are encouraged to contact Dr Brooke Simmons ([email protected]) for further information on the position and the group's scientific interests before submitting their application. Dr Simmons' research group is part of the larger Observational Astrophysics group at Lancaster, whose members pursue research in diverse and complementary topics including supernova cosmology, high-redshift galaxies and reionisation, star formation and galaxy evolution, multi-messenger astrophysics and gravitational waves. The Observational Astrophysics group is part of a wider Research Group which also includes the Theoretical Cosmology and Space & Planetary Physics groups. Several members of the department are members of the Data Science Institute at Lancaster, which the successful candidate will have the opportunity to join.

You must have earned a PhD in astronomy, astrophysics, physics, computer science or a related field by the start date. You must also have prior experience with data analysis, including computational skills. Other desirable criteria include (1) the ability to contribute to publications and present work at conferences; (2) expertise in applying algorithms such as classifying and clustering to transient astrophysics problems; (3) excellent interpersonal and communication skills; (4) the ability to cooperate with others, share leadership of team tasks and be flexible in problem-solving approaches; and (5) the ability to work independently in a multidisciplinary environment.

To apply, you should submit (1) a curriculum vitae with publications list; (2) a research statement describing your suitability for the position as well as your current and future research interests, not to exceed 2 pages; and (3) a list containing contact information for 3 reference letter writers. Letters of reference will be requested from longlisted candidates.

You will join us on an indefinite contract however, the role remains contingent on external funding. The funding is currently guaranteed until January 2025, and renewal is anticipated for a further 3 years.

Lancaster is a small but vibrant city near the sea and very close to the picturesque Lake District. Applicants may find some helpful information on local amenities here: https:// www. physics.lancs.ac.uk/jobs/amenities/

Lancaster University Physics is strongly committed to an inclusive work environment, which includes fostering diversity within its community as a source of excellence, cultural enrichment, and social strength. We welcome those who would contribute to the further diversification of our department.

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