Postdoctoral Research Assistant in Gravitational Wave Astrophysics

Applications are invited for a Postdoctoral Research Assistant to perform research on the astrophysical origin of gravitational wave sources with Bence Kocsis at the Rudolf Peierls Centre for Theoretical Physics Oxford.

The post is available for a fixed-term period of 2 years starting between 1 September 2020 and 1 December 2020, with possible extension for a third year. The PDRA will take responsibility for any of the following research themes: 1) producing dynamical models of initially anisotropic and rotating dense systems of stars and black holes; 2) examining the evolution of binaries in nuclear star clusters hosting a supermassive black hole and a gaseous disk; 3) determining the expected distribution of the binary black hole parameters for astrophysical merger population models 4) constructing a statistical algorithm to classify the contribution of different source populations among the observed sample of mergers.

We are particularly looking for candidates with strong background either in dynamical modelling, numerical (N-body and/or hydro) simulations, or statistical methods and inference, but candidates with relevant expertise in all aspects of gravitational wave astrophysics are warmly welcome to apply.

Duties will include carrying out research in theoretical astrophysics; related tasks will include collaborating in the preparation of reports and journal articles, presenting papers at conferences and workshops, and representing the group at meetings/seminars. The postholder will have the opportunity to teach. The successful candidates should hold, or be close to completion of a PhD/DPhil in physics, or a closely related field.

You will be required to upload a statement of research interests (max. 3 pages), CV and details of three referees as part of your online application. Candidates should ensure that referees submit all references to [email protected] by the closing date. Documents submitted should be in PDF format and use the naming convention: APPLICANT SURNAME, FORENAME - REFEREE SURNAME, FORENAME.

Only applications received before 12.00 midday on 6 January 2020 can be considered.