Postdoctoral position in numerical/theoretical astrophysics

Project description:

Applicants are invited to apply for a postdoctoral position in the SNF-PRIMA-funded research group of Dr. Michaela Hirschmann, available at LASTRO at EPFL (Switzerland). The PRIMA project is dedicated to understand (i) how energy release from accreting black holes affects the interstellar medium in high-redshift galaxies (via radiation-hydrodynamic simulations), and (ii) to what extent galaxy spectra with emission lines can be used to formulate a consistent theory for the evolution of these extreme galactic environments at earliest cosmic epochs (combining simulations with photo-ionisation codes). Achieving these goals will provide a comprehensive theoretical framework for the planning and interpretation of near-future, revolutionary spectroscopic observations of galaxies in the early Universe, e.g. with JWST/NIRSpec. Candidates, interested in joining the research group and exploring the outlined scientific questions, are encouraged to apply; they will also have the possibility to interact closely with scientists associated with JWST/NIRSpec. 

Working environment:

The successful applicant will join the lively and active research environment at LASTRO, which focuses on research in extragalactic astrophysics and observational cosmology: https://www.epfl.ch/labs/lastro/ . The Astrophysicists from EPFL (LASTRO) and Geneva University share the same facilities at the Observatoire de Sauverny in Versoix near Geneva, but also have offices on the EPFL campus. The selected candidate will predominantly work with Dr. Michaela Hirschmann, but collaborations with other institute members are encouraged. Supervision of bachelor/master students as well as co-supervision of PhD students will be possible. The position is initially for 1 year, extendible to a total of four years. Research funds for computers, travel, conference participation, publication charges and other needs are available.

EPFL offers a unique and stimulating research environment and is recognized as one of the best Universities in Europe, addressing both engineering and fundamental sciences. Specifically in extragalactic astrophysics, EPFL is involved in different surveys, such as DESI, 4MOST, WEAVE, and MOONS. In 2020, EPFL became a member of the SKA Organization. There are also natural connections with CERN and with other Swiss Universities as well as with the Swiss National HPC Center (https://www.cscs.ch). 

Requirements and Application material:

A formal requirement for this position is a PhD in (astro)physics. A strong background in numerical astrophysics and/or spectral evolution/photo-ionisation modelling as well as very good programming skills are desirable. Excellent knowledge of English is required. Applications (as single pdf-file) should be sent to [email protected] before December 1st 2020 and should include:

• a motivation letter (1 page)
• a curriculum vitae 
• a publication list
• a research statement, including a summary of past/current research with a tentative research proposal (4 pages).

In addition, three reference letters should be sent directly to [email protected] before December 1st 2020.