Postdoctoral Research Assistant in Active Galactic Nuclei


Applications are invited for a Postdoctoral Research Assistant in the study of Active Galactic Nuclei (AGN) at the Institute for Astronomy (IfA), Royal Observatory Edinburgh.

Edinburgh is a leading centre of extragalactic studies with significant work in the physics and environment of AGN, high redshift galaxies and quasars, gravitational lensing, cosmology, and survey astronomy in general.

The PDRA will work with Prof Andy Lawrence on one or more of three interlinked projects:(i) extreme variability in PanSTARRS AGN, thought to be examples of microlensing; (ii) mapping the molecular torus in nearby AGN; and (iii) the nature of the Big Blue Bump. The three projects are linked by the aim to decode the internal structure of AGN. There will be the opportunity to work with data from PanSTARRS, Liverpool Telescope, XMM, and the WHT, and to develop proposals for HST, ALMA, and the MMT. Applicants should have a strong background in the study of AGN, either observationally or by modelling or by both.

The appointment will be for two years, with potential for renewal, starting in March 2014 or as soon as possible thereafter. Informal enquiries may be made to Prof Andy Lawrence (al@roe see footnote). Applications must be made online for vacancy reference 024028 at www.jobs.ed.ac.uk.

Applicants should supply a CV, bibliography, and a short description of how their research interests and skills fit the position. Letters of recommendation from three referees should be sent directly by email to Prof Lawrence by the closing date.

Salary Scale: Grade 7 £30,728 - £36,661.
Closing date: 31st January 2014.


All emails addresses are @roe.ac.uk.