Applications are invited for a postdoctoral researcher or a research fellow position at the Aalto University Metsähovi Radio Observatory in Finland. The successful applicant will join the Academy of Finland –funded, interdisciplinary NT-VGOS (Novel Techniques for the VLBI Global Observing System) project led by Dr. Tuomas Savolainen. NT-VGOS is a joint effort of the Aalto University and the Finnish Geospatial Research Institute (FGI). It brings together expertise in both astronomical and geodetic very long baseline interferometry in order to address the systematic errors in geodetic VLBI measurements that are caused by unaccounted, time and frequency-variable structure of the quasar radio jets which are used as reference points in geodetic VLBI. Mitigating these errors is essential for achieving the accuracy goals of the new VLBI Global Observing System (VGOS) that is currently being built around the globe.
Job description
You will participate in developing imaging capability for the VGOS network in order to make corrections for the source structure effects possible. You will also develop and lead a program to measure the frequency dependency of the astrometric positions of the quasar cores. Furthermore, you are encouraged to pursue research topics of your own choice, presumed that they align with the work done in the Aalto radio astronomy group. The group's focus areas are 1) studies of relativistic jets from black holes, 2) multi-wavelength variability of blazars, and 3) population studies of AGN. The group is active in several major astronomical VLBI programs, including the Event Horizon Telescope Collaboration (mm-VLBI), the RadioAstron key science programs (space-VLBI), and the MOJAVE monitoring program of AGN jets.
Requirements
- PhD in astronomy, astrophysics, geodesy, or other relevant field
- Strong background in radio interferometry, preferably in very long baseline interferometry
- A track record of scientific publications in high-quality peer reviewed journals
- Good communication skills in English
Experience either in astrometric VLBI or in studies of active galactic nuclei jets is considered an advantage.
Applying
The position will be initially filled for two years with a possible extension up to three years. Please apply online using the provided link and include the following attachments:
- Application cover letter
- Curriculum Vitae
- List of publications
- Short research statement (max 4 pages)
Candidates should arrange for two letters of reference to be sent directly to [email protected]. The call is open until April 30, 2019, but we will start reviewing and interviewing candidates immediately.
For more information on the position please view the full job advertisement at https://www.aalto.fi/node/88551