The School of Physics & Astronomy at the University of Leicester invites applications for a post-doctoral Research Associate in Astrophysics. This position is funded by STFC through a project led by Prof Richard Alexander and Dr Giovanni Rosotti, for a period of three years.
The project will use theoretical and numerical models to investigate the evolution of forming exoplanet systems, looking in particular at the dynamics of planets, dust, and gas in the outer regions of protoplanetary discs. The successful applicant will be expected to carry out independent and collaborative research for this project, and will also have opportunities to work with external collaborators (including through the EU-funded “Dustbusters” network). You will also be able to collaborate more widely within our Astrophysics Group, whose research programme spans a wide range of topics, including star and planet formation, exoplanet detection and characterisation, AGN physics, accretion discs, gamma-ray bursts, and galactic dynamics. We are particularly interested in candidates with expertise in protoplanetary discs, planet formation and migration, or numerical hydrodynamics, but all applicants with a strong background in relevant areas of theoretical or observational astrophysics are encouraged to apply.
Applicants must have a PhD in astrophysics (or a closely-related subject), or expect to be awarded a PhD before taking up the position. The position is available from April 2022, but the starting date is flexible. The starting salary is £35,326. The successful applicant will have access to expenses for computing equipment and travel, as well as extensive access to local and national high-performance computing facilities.
Applications should be submitted electronically via the link in the "Apply to Job" box below. Please provide (i) a CV; (ii) a list of publications; (iii) a statement of research interests (maximum of 3 pages); and (iv) the contact details of three referees. The closing date for applications is January 26th 2022.