Two Post-Doctoral Fellowships in Cosmological Structure Formation


Applications are invited for two Postdoctoral Fellowships at the Institute for Astronomy (IfA), Royal Observatory Edinburgh, to work with Prof John Peacock. These positions are funded by an Advanced Grant from the European Research Council, and are open to applicants of all nationalities. Applications from minorities are strongly encouraged.

The ERC research programme covers two projects in cosmological structure formation: (1) analysis of galaxy surveys with a view to probing dark energy and modified gravity; (2) calculations of the impact of dark energy on galaxy formation, via both direct simulation and semianalytics. It is possible that suitably qualified applicants might contribute to both projects.

Candidates for the first project should have a strong background in statistical cosmology and in the manipulation of large datasets. An interest in measurements of galaxy environments and the cosmic web would be an advantage. There will be the opportunity to be a team member in the SDSS-IV eBOSS survey as well as becoming involved in preparations for the DESI project.

Candidates for the second project should have extensive experience in working with cosmological simulations including hydrodynamics or galaxy semianalytics. This part of the programme will be carried out in collaboration with the group of Professor Sadegh Khochfar, and will allow access to substantial computational resources, including Archer - the UK National Supercomputer.

The appointments will be for three years initially, with potential for renewal, starting in September 2016, with flexibility on the start date. Applications must be made online for vacancy reference 034655 at www.jobs.ed.ac.uk. Informal enquiries may be made to Prof John Peacock (jap@roe.ac.uk).

Applicants should supply a CV, bibliography, plus a research proposal of up to three pages. Letters of recommendation from three referees should be sent directly by email to Prof Peacock by the closing date.

Salary Scale: Grade 7 £31342 - £37394

Closing date: 15 December 2015.