The Astronomy Group of the Physics and Astronomy Department at the Universidad de La Serena (Chile) is announcing a professor position in Astronomy and Astrophysics. We particularly welcome applicants interested in exploring synergies between huge photometric and spectroscopic surveys, both for galactic or extragalactic astronomy, data-mining or astro-informatic techniques, with the aim to exploit data produced by large synoptic surveys based in Chile as LSST, SDSS-IV/APOGEE-2, VISTA/4MOST, etc. Nevertheless, applications from researchers in all areas of Astronomy will receive careful consideration.
Applicants must have obtained a Ph.D. in Astronomy, Astrophysics (or a closely related field), and they should demonstrate commitment to excellence in independent research and teaching. Previous experience in graduate Thesis supervising is desirable.
ULS researchers have access to 10% of observing time on all existing and future telescopes in Chile, including VLT, La Silla, Gemini-South, CTIO, LCO Magellan, APEX, ALMA, LSST, GMT, and E-ELT. In addition, our Group participates in the APOGEE-2 Survey and Sloan Digital Sky Survey IV.
The Astronomy Group, in a state of vigorous expansion, includes nine professors, and six postdocs and research assistants carrying out research in Stellar Astrophysics, Numerical Astrophysics, and Galactic and Extragalactic Astronomy, using a large variety of observational data in different wavelength regimes, and sophisticated and detailed modeling. A strong academic program exists, including about 40 undergraduate and 10 graduate students.
The salary of the position is highly competitive according to local standards. In addition, a productivity incentive can be considered. The appointment will be for an initial period of two years, with tenuring based on a successful performance review. The starting date for duty is expected to be as soon as possible and no later than August 2018. The position includes a starting fund for computing, publications, meeting travel, etc.
It is expected that the successful candidate will supervise undergraduate and graduate students and teach preferably in Spanish at these levels, including the PhD Program in Astronomy. In addition, it is expected that the selected candidate leads competitive research projects and engages in university service activities, including outreach programs.
Universidad de La Serena, which is located in a beautiful and touristic coastal city, is one of the most important Chilean public university in Northern Chile, surrounded by large international observatories such as LCO, La Silla, CTIO, Gemini South, SOAR, and some of the biggest astronomical projects in the world for the next decade, such as LSST and GMT.
Candidates should send a cover letter, CV (including publications and advising), and a research statement (that includes past, current, and future research, maximum of 5 pages) by March 31, 2018, and arrange for recommendation letters to be sent directly by at least three referees, by the same date. All documentation must be submitted to the Director of the Astronomy Group, Dr. Rodolfo Barba ([email protected] with copy to [email protected]).