The Gaia Data Processing and Analysis Consortium (DPAC) is the consortium responsible for processing the data that arrives from ESA's Gaia satellite. A major problem to be solved for Gaia Data Release 4 relates to stellar images not correctly matched by a single point-spread function (PSF). These situations cause problems in the further astrometric and binary-star processing, handled by the so-called Coordination Units "Core Processing" (CU3) and "Object Processing" (CU4). The objective of the project is to solve this problem by adding the necessary processing to the existing architecture.
Although based in Brussels (Université libre de Bruxelles), the successful candidate will (remotely) work in close collaboration with colleagues from CU3 and CU4, located in Brussels, ESAC (Madrid), Observatoire de Paris and CNES (Toulouse). Applicant's Profile: - The candidate must have a PhD in physics, preferentially astrophysics. - The candidate must have a strong interest in "big data" processing (knowledge of Java is an asset). - Some knowledge about image processing, astrometry and the Gaia DPAC environment will be a strong asset. Interested candidates should send their CV with a motivation letter and request two referees to send their recommendation letter directly to A. Jorissen (Alain.Jorissen at ulb.be) The contract is for one year, with possible extension depending on funding. It is funded by Belspo - PRODEX (Belgian Science Policy Office). Applications are open until February 2, 2022 but applications are encouraged as soon as possible, since the position may start immediately. More information on the Institut d'Astronomie et d'Astrophysique may be found at http://www.astro.ulb.ac.be