Four postdoctoral positions in the context of Wide Field Survey Telescope

The Department of Astronomy at the University of Science and Technology of China (USTC) invites applications for four postdoctoral positions in the context of Wide Field Survey Telescope (WFST) project. The 2.5-meter WFST is under construction by USTC and Purple Mountain Observatory (PMO). It is planned to commission in the mid-2022 and will become a world-class survey facility on the northern hemisphere. It will survey up to 6000 square degrees in multiple colors per night, reaching 23th magnitude for with high-precision photometry and astrometry.

Two selected candidates would work on WFST data reduction pipeline. Those candidates who had previous experience in utilizing or developing other data reduction pipelines are preferred. The other two selected candidates would work on topics related to WFST project, such as time-domain astronomy, solar system objects and near-field cosmology.

Successful candidates will receive an annual salary of 320,000 RMB at minimum, up to around 420,000 RMB. The university also provides generous benefits on medical insurance and children daycare. 

The starting dates for the positions are negotiable. A Ph.D. degree in astronomy, physics or a related discipline is a prerequisite for commencing the position. The initial appointment is two years, but may be extended to up to 6 additional years (with the rank promoted to non-tenure Research Associate Professor) contingent on performance and funding. Tenure promotion to associate or full professor is possible for outstanding candidates.

To apply, please prepare a CV/resume, a list of publications, a statement of research interests, and arrange for at least three letters of reference. All these documents are to be sent to Dr. Lulu Fan by email ([email protected]) with the subject "USTC-WFST Postdoc Application/Your Name". The subject of the email for submitting reference letters should read "USTC-WFST Reference Letter/Your Name". The positions remain open until filled. Further inquiries are also directed to Dr. Lulu Fan via the email above.