Research Associate Positions

The South-Western Institute for Astronomy Research (SWIFAR) at Yunnan University (YNU), Kunming, Yunnan Province, PR China, invites applications for SWIFAR research associate positions, starting on September 1, 2021. We seek for qualified applicants in all branches of astronomy and astrophysics.

Being one of the 42 elite universities designated by the Chinese government to strive for building world-class disciplines and universities (“double world-class”), YNU has prioritized astronomy to be one of the key areas in its development plan. SWIFAR was established in September 2017. It is designed to be an international center of excellence that promotes basic research in astronomy and astrophysics in China with the highest international standards, a forum for global scientific exchange, an incubator for innovative projects, and a training center for national and international postdocs and students. Currently, SWIFAR focuses on studies in three major areas: a) Interstellar Matter and Local Universe; b) Galaxies and Cosmology; and c) High Energy Phenomena and Fundamental Physics. A variety of academic activities and programs are routinely organized, which have made SWIFAR scientifically stimulating. Successful candidates are expected to be able to conduct independent research, work closely with the SWIFAR research teams, and contribute actively to the global research environment of the institute.

SWIFAR is building Multi-Channel Photometric Survey Telescope (Mephisto; http://www.swifar.ynu.edu.cn/kxyj_Science/wyjyz_Telescope_Development.htm), an optical wide-field survey telescope of 1.6m aperture capable of imaging the sky in three bands (ugi/vrz) simultaneously. It is expected to operate in early 2022. Mephisto shall deliver ultra precise, real-time true colors of celestial objects down to a limiting magnitude of g≈22.7 mag. Candidates with experiences in wide field imaging surveys and time domain science are particularly encouraged to apply.

RANK: Research associates

SALARY: Depending on qualifications and experience.

TERM: Normally three years, extendable depending on performance

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS: Ph.D., or equivalent, in Astronomy, Physics, Planetary Sciences or related fields, completed or expected to complete by effective date, a demonstrated record of research excellence and potential. Candidates of all nationalities are encouraged to apply.

POSITION AVAILABLE: September 1, 2021. Each applicant should submit a curriculum vita, a brief summary of research achievements and future plan, and three letters of recommendation (all letters will be treated as confidential documents). It is the responsibility of the applicant to see that all materials, including reference letters, be sent to:

Ms. Xiaoming Guo

South-Western Institute for Astronomy Research

Rm 1323, Astronomical Building, Yunnan University

Kunming 650500, Yunnan Province

P. R. China.

Email: [email protected]

CLOSING DATE: Applications arrived before March 12, 2021, will receive full considerations.

Included Benefits:

This position is a bona fide, open position, which has not been promised to anyone. It will remain open for at least 30 days.