Job Description:
The Faculty of Science at the University of Manitoba (UM) has one open post-doctoral fellow position in the visualization of astrophysical data products with emphasis on scientific visualization, including the use of interactive 3D Virtual Reality systems. The successful applicant will be part of a multidisciplinary UM team of researchers covering the domains of astrophysics, data science and visualization. They will have responsibilities that include the development of code for visualization. The UM researchers focus on analyzing the radio continuum data from the Very Large Array Sky Survey (VLASS), which is a Square Kilometre Array (SKA) pathfinder project. As such the team collaborates with experts at the Universities of Toronto and Alberta and contributes to a pilot Canadian SKA Regional Centre, which is supported by a Canada Foundation for Innovation (CFI) grant. This centre will archive thecatalogue and enhanced scientific data products from VLASS observations developed by the UM team using aspects of machine learning, data mining, etc.
Responsibilities:
The successful candidate will develop, maintain and document visualization software for amjoint project between research groups in UM’s Computer Science and Physics & Astronomy departments. Their focus will be on effective, perception-based visualization of the VLASS catalogues and data products for 2D desktop displays, which access the regional centre’s web archive, and 3D immersive VR headsets. The goal is to facilitate exploration of big data by human-computer interaction to enable discovery science associated with radio transient phenomena, active galactic nuclei, jets, supernova remnants, etc. This position will include some time for independent VLASS-related research in either astrophysics or visualization. The successful candidate will be expected to publish research results in the refereed journal literature.
Qualifications:
Candidates must have a PhD degree in astrophysics, physics, or computer science with a focus on computational science and/or visualization, or demonstrate the ability to acquire skills in these areas. Familiarity with Linux and programming skills in C++, Python, and fluency in written and spoken English are required. Competence in gaming engines (such as Unity) are a preferred asset, as is the ability to work across disciplines and to work well as a team member and independently.
Additional Information:
The University of Manitoba is situated in Winnipeg, which is close to lakes and nature reserves. Cost of living is relatively low, housing is affordable, and it is renown for its friendliness.
To apply, please send a CV, bibliography, statement of relevant experience, and have 3 letters of reference emailed to Prof. Chris O’Dea.