Postdoctoral position in galaxy formation

Applications are invited for a two-year postdoctoral research position in the study of galaxy formation and dark matter with gravitational lensing. The successful applicant will join the research group of Prof. John McKean at the Kapteyn Astronomical Institute, which currently has two postdoctoral researchers, three PhD students, two Masters students and 2 Bachelors research students. The position involves the analysis of interferometric imaging data for strong gravitational lenses to study the abundance of low-mass haloes both within the lensing galaxies and along the line-of-sight, with the aim of constraining models for cold/warm dark matter. However, applicants with interests in wide-field interferometry, lens searches, lens modelling, and studies of the high redshift Universe with lensing are encouraged to apply.

The applicant will join a strong research team in Groningen, which includes the group of Prof. Leon Koopmans, but will also be expected to work with team members in Germany, UK and USA. The position is funded through a joint NWO-CAS grant, and so will require short visits to work with Prof. Mao and Dr. Xu at Tsinghua University, Beijing.

The position is available for two years in the first instance, but may be extended, depending on performance and funding. The position comes with a generous salary and social security benefits. There will also be extensive funds available for travel.

Interested candidates are invited to apply by sending i) a cover letter expressing their motivation and interest in the position, ii) a two-page statement on their scientific interests/skills and research experience, and iii) a curriculum vitae (including publication list) to the email address [email protected]. Candidates should also arrange for three letters of recommendation to be sent by their authors to the same address.

The review of applications will begin on 2019 June 15, but late applications will be accepted until the position is filled.