Postdoctoral positions in Computational and Gravitational Wave Astrophysics

The Department of Physics at the University of Helsinki is inviting applications for 1-2 ERC-funded postdoctoral positions in computational astrophysics and gravitational wave physics. The positions are offered within the ERC-Consolidator Grant Project KETJU (Post-Newtonian modelling of the dynamics of supermassive black holes in galactic-scale hydrodynamical simulations).

Successful applicants will join the Theoretical Extragalactic Research Group led by Professor Peter Johansson and are expected to work on the themes relevant to KETJU, including: modelling the accurate dynamics of supermassive black holes, the implementation of small-scale gas physics and black hole feedback and the calculation of the gravitational wave signal from binary supermassive black holes.

We are seeking both excellent recent graduates and candidates with prior postdoctoral experience. A solid knowledge of theoretical astrophysics and a background in numerical astrophysics and/or gravitational wave astrophysics are required. The research group actively collaborates with researchers in Germany, the United Kingdom and the United States and the position will include ample funding for travel together with full access to the resources of the Finnish supercomputer centre.

Applicants should have a PhD in astronomy, astrophysics or a closely related field. The appointment will be for an initial period of two years with a possible extension for another two years contingent on satisfactory performance. The nominal starting date is expected to be September 2019, but earlier or later dates are possible. University of Helsinki is the leading institute in Finland in astrophysics and cosmology with about 40 people working in this field. The annual gross salary will be above the regular postdoc salary level, within the range of 45 000-50 000 €/yr depending on experience and qualification. The University of Helsinki is an equal opportunity employer.

Applications should include a CV, publication list, and a statement (max. 3 pages) of research interests. This should include a summary of past research achievements and statement of future plans. Please submit by email your application in one single pdf file by midnight Saturday 2nd February 2019. The applicants should also arrange for three letters of recommendation to be sent by the same date.

For more information about the research group, see http://www.helsinki.fi/~phjohans/.

Informal enquiries to Prof. Peter Johansson are most welcome ([email protected]).