Research Fellow in Astrophysics

Applications are invited for a Postdoctoral Research Fellowship (PDRA) position in the Astrophysics Research Group of the University of Surrey, working with Dr. Payel Das in the area of galactic archaeology, dynamics and evolution. The position is funded by a UKRI Future Leaders Fellowship, 'GaLaxy Evolution with Action-based Modelling (GLEAM)', aimed at understanding the evolution of nearby galaxies, including our own. Combining ground-based spectroscopic surveys and Gaia with models of stellar atmospheres and evolution has enabled 6D phase-space coordinates, ages, stellar parameters, and multiple chemical abundances (chrono-chemo-kinematic data) to be determined for millions of stars in the Milky Way. Possible projects include 1.) building new state-of-the-art machine-learning tools to determine cross-calibrated catalogues of chrono-chemo-kinematic data across many surveys; 2.) building new chemo-dynamical models of the Milky Way to exploit these high-dimensional datasets and derive its formation history.

Candidates must hold (or be close to completion of) a PhD in astronomy, physics, applied mathematics, computer science or a closely related discipline. Candidates should apply on-line and provide both a curriculum vitae (including a publication list) and a 2-3 page statement of past research and proposed research to carry out on the GLEAM project.

This position is for up to two years, with a possible extension contingent on further funding. The preferred start date is 1st October 2022, though a later start may be possible on request. Prospective applicants are encouraged to contact Dr. Payel Das ([email protected]) for further information.

Salary: GBP £33,309 - £37,468 per annum

For a complete description and to submit an application, please visit the University of Surrey website:

https://jobs.surrey.ac.uk/vacancy.aspx?ref=034922