Senior Research Associate in Transient Astrophysics

Lancaster University Physics seeks to appoint a postdoctoral researcher to work on scientific research related to data science challenges in transient and time-sensitive astrophysics. The position is initially funded for 3 years and includes funding for travel, computing, and professional development.

You will join a group working across multiple disciplines to solve major data analysis problems, advance scientific research and address urgent, real-world issues. The group works in both astrophysics and humanitarian earth observation, incorporating data science, machine learning and citizen science practices. You will be expected to contribute expertise in transient astrophysics, specifically in areas related to characterising and following up interesting transient phenomena (including but not limited to supernovae) identified via e.g. LSST brokers. There will also be opportunities for you to become involved in existing Zooniverse citizen science projects, and/or to create new projects to label data and collaborate with citizen scientists on that platform. You will also be encouraged to pursue independent research in areas relevant to the group.

People with skills including working with large astronomical surveys and/or catalogues, statistical techniques, source classification and/or clustering techniques are all encouraged to apply.

For additional information including detailed evaluation criteria, please see the job listing on the Lancaster Jobs portal. Prospective candidates are encouraged to contact Dr Brooke Simmons ([email protected]) for further information on the position and the group's scientific interests before submitting their application.

Lancaster University Physics is strongly committed to fostering diversity within its community. We welcome those who would contribute to the further diversification of our department.