Postdoctoral Positions in Observational, Theoretical, and Numerical Cosmology and Extragalactic Astrophysics

Leiden Observatory is seeking postdoctoral researchers to pursue innovative research projects in collaboration with Professor Joseph Hennawi and his ENIGMA group (http://enigma.physics.ucsb.edu) to be supported by his recently awarded ERC Advanced Grant.

Research areas currently being pursued by the group include: cosmic reionization, quasar absorption line analysis, studies of the intergalactic medium (IGM) using the Lyman-alpha forest, the circumgalactic media (CGM) of galaxies, cosmological simulations of the IGM, CGM, and galaxy formation, observations of high-redshift galaxies and active galactic nuclei, astronomical data analysis (i.e. data reduction, mining large surveys, novel statistical methods), and applications of machine learning.

Candidates in all areas of observational, theoretical, and numerical cosmology and extragalactic astrophysics will be considered, and are encouraged to apply. Applicants must have a PhD in physics, astronomy, or a closely related field at the time of appointment. The successful candidate will participate in the research activities of the ENIGMA group, including opportunities to mentor students and collaborate with other faculty members and researchers at Leiden. Leiden Observatory provides a stimulating research environment with faculty and staff pursuing a broad range of topics in astronomy and astrophysics (https://www.universiteitleiden.nl/en/science/astronomy).

As Professor Hennawi is also a faculty member at the University of California, Santa Barbara (UCSB), there will also be opportunities to collaborate with students, postdocs, and faculty members at UCSB. Through UCSB, the ENIGMA group has privileged access to the twin Keck Observatory telescopes (http://www.keckobservatory.org), Lick Observatory (http://www.ucolick.org), and the Las Cumbres Observatory (https://lco.global).

The postdoc is anticipated to have a three-year duration, the funding for which is already fully in place. The appointment will be for an initial one-year period, with extension to three years contingent on performance. Extensions for additional years (in excess of three) may also be possible. The starting date is negotiable. For inquiries, please contact Joseph Hennawi ([email protected]).

Applicants should send a brief cover letter, curriculum vitae, publication list, and a brief research statement summarizing previous accomplishments, current interests, and future plans; they should also arrange for at least three, and up to five, letters of recommendation. Applications should be submitted by the December 15, 2020 deadline.

All applicants must apply through the Leiden Observatory online application system at: https://jobs.strw.leidenuniv.nl/2020/HennawiPD/

The position will remain open until filled, but applications should arrive by the December 15, 2020 deadline to ensure full consideration.