Research Associate in Theoretical and Computational Astrophysics

The School of Physics and Astronomy at the University of Leicester invites applications for a Research Associate in Theoretical and Computational Astrophysics. The Research Associate will join the team led by Professor Chris Nixon, to work on the STFC funded project "Dynamic Accretion Discs in Astrophysics". The research for this project is theoretical in nature, and addresses the dynamics of accretion discs in a variety of astrophysical settings, including discs around black holes, disc-binary interaction, and protoplanetary disc evolution. The successful candidate will have existing skills in theoretical and computational astrophysics that are relevant to the study of accretion discs. The position is funded for three years.

The successful applicant will carry out independent and collaborative research for this project, and will also have opportunities to collaborate more widely both within the School of Physics and Astronomy, and through international collaborations including the EU funded Dustbusters programme (https://dustbusters.fisica.unimi.it). We are particularly interested in candidates with expertise in analytical and/or computational research applied to accretion discs, but all applicants with a strong background in theoretical astrophysics are encouraged to apply.

Applicants must have a PhD in astrophysics (or a related discipline), or expect to be awarded a PhD before taking up the position. The position is available from 1st April 2022, but the starting date is flexible. The salary scale is £35,326 - £38,587, depending on experience. The successful applicant will have access to resources for travel and computing equipment, as well as extensive access to both local and national high-performance computing facilities.

Applications should be made through the University of Leicester website by clicking the link below. Applicants should provide a CV, list of publications, a 3-page statement of research interests, and the names and contact details of three academic referees.