Post-Doctoral Research Assistant in High precision radial velocity searches for exoplanets

Applications are invited for Postdoctoral Research Assistant (PDRA) in radial velocity searches for exoplanets.

This post is fixed term for 3 years

We are recruiting a PDRA to work on the detection of exoplanets in the presence of stellar activity using the radial velocity method. These posts are part of a new 5-year project supported by the European Research Council (ERC) and led by Prof Suzanne Aigrain.

The successful candidate will work with Prof Aigrain and other members of her group, on the ongoing development of novel methods to extract and model high-precision stellar radial velocities, and to disentangle between stellar activity and planetary signals. Using extensive archival datasets as a test-bed, we aim to refine these methods to the level where they enable us to detect habitable planets around nearby, Sun-like stars, then apply them to a major forthcoming survey, the Terra Hunting Experiment (THE), which is expected to begin in 2021.

Applicants should possess, or be close to obtaining a PhD in astrophysics or a related field. Previous experience in the field of Gaussian process regression applied to stellar activity and/or exoplanet detection will be an advantage. Candidates are expected to demonstrate the ability to carry out specific research projects independently, while working constructively within a larger team. The post-holder will have the opportunity to teach.

Please direct enquiries about the role to Suzanne Aigrain:  [email protected]

Only applications received before midday, 1st November 2021 can be considered. You will be required to upload a brief statement of research interests, CV and details of two referees as part of your online application.  Referees should send reference letters direct to   [email protected]