Two postdocs in Active Galaxies/Multi-Messenger Astronomy; Fast Radio Bursts

The West Virginia University Research Corporation invites applications for two postdoctoral research positions, working with Prof. Sarah Burke-Spolaor and collaborators as part of WVU’s Center for Gravitational Waves and Cosmology. Applications received by Monday, 6 November 2017 will be fully considered, however the review process will continue until a suitable candidate is found.

Postdoc #1: Active Galaxies and Multi-messenger Astronomy (PHYSIC 17-0107). The successful applicant will conduct observational studies of active galaxies with a focus on searching for and studying signatures of binary or recoiling binary supermassive black holes. Exceptional candidates interested in supermassive black hole source population modelling, observational limits on cosmic strings, and other areas of nanohertz-band gravitational wave astrophysics will also be considered.

Postdoc #2: Fast Radio Bursts (PHYSIC 17-0106). The successful applicant will support the development and use of the “Realfast” commensal radio transient detector on the Very Large Array. The postdoc will be involved in Fast Radio Burst observations, data acquisition, follow-up, and interpretation. Experience in any of radio interferometry, fast radio transient work, and/or gamma ray burst host galaxy investigations would give qualified applicants an advantage.

The appointments are for two+one years if progress is satisfactory. Competitive salary and benefits package offered. Qualified applicants should submit a cover letter, statement of research interests (up to 2 pages), curriculum vitae, and contact information for three references. You should arrange for references to be emailed to [email protected] before the deadline. For questions, contact Prof. Sarah Burke-Spolaor, 304-293-2771, [email protected]. Access the online applications via the links listed below.

WVU is a comprehensive land grant university with 29,000 students and is classified by the Carnegie Commission on Higher Education as a Research-High Activity Institution. Morgantown is a lively city offering plentiful recreational, cultural, and educational opportunities, is within driving distance of Pittsburgh, PA, and is about 200 miles northwest of Washington, D.C. The WVU Research Corporation is an AA / EOE / Minorities / Females / Vet / Disability / E-verify compliant employer.