Postdoctoral Research Fellow in Supernovae and Transients

Applications are invited for a postdoctoral research fellow position in the area of supernovae and transient studies at Trinity College Dublin. The successful candidate will join the ERC-funded SUPERSTARS research group of Prof. Kate Maguire. The goals of the project include building and analysing new Type Ia supernova samples, combined with modelling efforts, to constrain their progenitor and explosion physics, as well as exploring the diversity of white-dwarf explosions. The group is involved in a number of current and future state-of-the-art surveys in transient discovery and follow-up (Zwicky Transient Factory, BlackGEM, 4MOST), and the successful applicant will have the opportunity to be involved in these projects.

Applicants must have a PhD in astrophysics or a related field, or have satisfied the requirements for a PhD, by the time of appointment. Demonstrated expertise in observational and/or theoretical studies of supernovae and related transient events is strongly desired. Experience in observational data reduction and analysis of light curves and spectra of transients and/or experience in radiative transfer calculations would be welcomed. The successful applicant will have the opportunity for student project supervision, as well the possibility to gain other experience in teaching and learning within the School of Physics. They will be encouraged to actively contribute and interact with other researchers in the lively and international research environment of the Astrophysics Research Group at Trinity College Dublin.

The position is available for two years in the first instance, with the possibility of a one-year extension. The position is available immediately, but a later starting date can be negotiated. Generous funding for travel and equipment is available.

How to apply: Interested candidates should send a cover letter together with a CV (with publication list) and a one-page summary of their current and future research activities to [email protected]. Please use the subject line “SUPERSTARS research fellow application”. Candidates should provide the names of two academic references. Complete applications received by 30 September 2020 will receive full consideration.

The success of Trinity College Dublin is built on the diversity of its staff and students. Applications for this post from traditionally under-represented groups in physics are particularly welcome.