Scientist with experience in modelling of hot plasmas

 

SRON's mission is to bring about breakthroughs in international space research. Therefore the institute develops pioneering technology and advanced space instruments, and uses them to pursue fundamental astrophysical research, Earth science and exoplanetary research. As national expertise institute, SRON gives counsel to the Dutch government and coordinates national contributions to international space missions. SRON stimulates the implementation of space science in our society. 

The Astrophysics Program of SRON concentrates on the evolution of galaxies, star formation over cosmic time, and black holes. An important ingredient is connecting this science with the space instruments SRON builds and collaborating with the worldwide user community. 

Our Astrophysics Program has a vacancy in its laboratory in Utrecht for a tenure track position for a 

Scientist with experience in modelling of hot plasmas (f/m) 

Vacancy number 'SRON 1591' 

 

Research 

The study of hot plasmas in the X-ray band improved significantly since the launch of the satellites XMM-Newton and Chandra. Even more exciting times are ahead of us with XRISM (to be launched early 2022) and Athena (to be launched in 2031). Correct analysis of the data does not only depend on the instrument performance and its calibration but also on the correct modelling of these plasmas. This modelling is based on databases containing thousands to millions of transitions (e.g. SPEX, AtomDB) but the accuracy of these databases is often the limiting factor for the correct interpretation of high-resolution X-ray spectra. SRON has a long track record in this field (the SPEX code was developed at SRON) and plans to continue this into the next decade. Therefore, SRON seeks a scientist for a tenure track position who is able to lead our contributions in this field. 

In addition to this contribution to the modelling, the scientist will also participate in front line research in this field, preferably with an emphasis on extragalactic astrophysics but good candidates in other fields are also encouraged to apply. 

 

Expertise 

• demonstrated capability to produce model spectra of hot plasmas using detailed atomic data and to perform calculations of these atomic data; 

• demonstrated track record in the field of observational astrophysics using high-energy satellites and high-resolution X-ray spectral data, including successful observation proposals led as PI. 

 

Profile 

• The candidate has obtained a Ph.D. degree preferably not more than 10 years ago; 

• The candidate is expected to obtain external funding to strengthen her/his research group; 

• The candidate is a good team player and able to oversee the work of junior colleagues. 

 

Employment conditions 

This is a fulltime tenure track position with an initial employment period of four years. Together with the candidate we will set up a SMART assessment procedure with clear criteria and milestones. Upon successfully passing the evaluation after three years the candidate will be offered a permanent position. The start date of this position can be determined in mutual agreement.

SRON is committed to an inclusive and flexible workplace. We encourage applications from qualified applicants of all sexual orientations and gender expressions, members of visible minorities, persons with disabilities, and potential dual-academic-career hires. 

 

Information and application 

More information about SRON can be found at www.sron.nl. 

For further information about the position, please contact prof. dr. Jan-Willem den Herder of the Astrophysics Program at +31-88 777 5894. 

If you wish to apply you can send a motivation letter, a concise research plan of 2-4 pages, your CV (about 2 pages) and the names and addresses of three references (incl. contact details) via email to [email protected]. 

Please state the vacancy number "SRON 1591" in the subject of your mail. Applications will be accepted until 1 March 2020. 

 

Other 

• The candidate will be employed at SRON Utrecht, which moves in 2021 to Leiden. 

• In the event of equal suitability, preference will be given to female applicants. 

• No commercial propositions please. 

• Online screening may be part of the selection procedure.