PhD position in Newtonian gravity calculations

PhD position in Newtonian gravity calculations for the extended N-body problem, ref. 178/17

The University of Agder invites applicants for a 3-yr PhD position in applied mathematics, starting date is foreseen in late 2018, or as negotiated. The candidate will be enrolled in the PhD programme in Engineering and Science, and must qualify for admission to the programme.

The Department of Engineering Sciences has more than 1000 employees in scientific positions and more than 1600 students at all levels. Research is conducted within applied mathematics, mechatronics, renewable energy and civil engineering.

Newtonian gravity calculations are still standard for the gravitational interaction between two or more irregular bodies such as asteroids and small moons, and especially for asteroid binaries. The PhD project will consist of numerical implementation and validation of the two-body (and possibly N-body) theory using a method involving vector potentials, together with orbit calculations using the mutual forces and torques between the bodies. The project may also involve software development to visualize the gravitational interaction between two (or more) extended bodies.

The successful applicant should hold a master’s degree in applied mathematics, physics or astrophysics. In addition, academic credentials and programming experience will be prioritized.

The position is remunerated according to the State Salary Scale, code 1017 Research Fellow, salary NOK 436 900 gross per year. A 2% compulsory pension contribution to the Norwegian Public Service Pension Fund is deducted according to current statutory provisions.

Application and CV should be subitted online, please follow the URL below.