Postdoctoral Position in Machine Learning and Astrophysics

We invite applications for a postdoctoral position in machine learning and high-redshift astrophysics at the Institute for Theoretical Physics (ITP) at Heidelberg University to work in the  ‘Computer Vision Astrophysics’ research group led by Dr. Caroline Heneka.

The postdoctoral researcher will contribute to an active research program on multi-line intensity mapping and state-of-the-art machine learning as a probe of high-redshift astrophysics and cosmology. Particular focus is the study of the Epoch of Reionisation. The postdoc will lead the development of machine and deep learning methods for optimal synergy with intensity mapping probes. Preferably, the applicant has research experience in machine and/or deep learning. A research background in reionisation-era astrophysics, and/or computational astrophysics, and/or cosmological phenomenology, or computer science in general will also be considered favourably. The researcher will have the opportunity to supervise and mentor students.

The research group is active in a multitude of collaborations such as the Low Frequency Array (LOFAR), the Square Kilometre Array (SKA), and the proposed Cosmic Dawn Intensity Mapper (CDIM) as a successor to the approved SPHEREx satellite, and collaborates with researchers for example in Germany, the US, France and Italy. The successful applicant will benefit from both the vibrant astrophysics and machine learning community in Heidelberg, where the ITP has close ties with for example the Institute for Theoretical Astrophysics (ITA), the Interdisciplinary Center for Scientific Computing (IWR), and the Max Planck Institute for Astronomy (MPIA).

Candidates should hold a Ph.D. in physics, astronomy, computer science or a related field. The initial appointment will be for 3 years, with a possible extension of one year. The starting date is negotiable, preferably early 2023. The position is funded by a ‘Freigeist’ fellowship by the Volkswagen foundation according to the German public service scale (TV-L E13) commensurate with experience. It includes funds for travel, visits, and publications. Both CPU and GPU computing resources are available. Interested applicants should send a cover letter, CV, publication list, and a brief research statement (max. 3 pages) as a single pdf file to [email protected] and arrange for three letters of reference to be sent separately to the same email address. Applications submitted by December 16th will receive full consideration. Late applications will be considered until the position is filled. For question about this position, please contact Dr. Caroline Heneka at [email protected].

Heidelberg University is an equal opportunity employer. Women and members of under-represented groups are particularly encouraged to apply.