The Astronomy Group at ASTRON (the Netherlands Institute for Radio Astronomy) invites applications for two post-doctoral fellowship positions.
These are 2+1 year appointments open to researchers with a PhD degree in astronomy, astrophysics or related discipline. Candidates are expected carry out innovative research in their own field of expertise, as well as participate in research carried out by the Astronomy Group, using available or planned ASTRON telescope facilities and other world-class astronomical instruments. Research interest and experience in observational radio astronomy is desirable, but candidates with other backgrounds are also encouraged to apply. Affinity with instrumentation or software is also valued.
ASTRON’s Astronomy Group is a scientifically rich environment with strong ties to technical development in the domain of radio astronomy both within the institute and internationally. ASTRON astronomers are active in many frontline research areas: galaxy structure and evolution, the ISM and IGM, pulsars and compact objects, the transient radio sky, AGN evolution and studies of the magnetic universe, large radio continuum and HI surveys, deep fields, and gravitational lensing. They are also heavily involved in the commissioning and use of LOFAR, and involved in preparing for the wide-field astronomy that will be made possible with instruments like APERTIF, which will be installed on WSRT in the near future. ASTRON astronomers are also involved in preparations for the SKA and participate in SKA precursor projects. Other front-line research facilities available to astronomers resident in the Netherlands include ESO, ALMA, JCMT and the ING telescopes. More information about ASTRON can be found at www.astron.nl
Letters of application should be sent to personnel@astron.nl before the deadline of 1 November 2012, quoting reference number 2012-08-20. Your application should include a CV, statement of scientific interests, a research proposal and you should arrange for three letters of reference to be sent to the same address by the deadline. Successful candidates will be in the formal employment of the Netherlands Organisation for Scientific Research (NWO), at a salary scale commensurate with age and experience. Generous relocation expenses, as well as an excellent package of benefits and assistance with finding accommodation will be provided (see also www.astron.nl/about-astron/careers/careers). Applicants of any nationality are eligible to apply. A good command of the English language (writing and speaking) is essential. The place of work is the ASTRON headquarters, located in Dwingeloo (the Netherlands). Collaboration is encouraged with the Dutch universities’ astronomy departments. Successful candidates will have access to excellent computational facilities and travel support.
For enquiries please contact: Prof. Dr. Erwin de Blok (blok@astron.nl), Senior staff astronomer in the Astronomy Group.
