Post-Doctoral Fellowships in Galaxy Formation and Theoretical Cosmology

Applications are invited for Postdoctoral Fellowships at the Institute for Astronomy (IfA), Royal Observatory Edinburgh. These positions are part of an initiative in the formation of galaxies and cosmological structure, led by Profs Romeel Dave, Sadegh Kochfar, and John Peacock.

We aim to use multiple simulation techniques to address key questions in galaxy formation: the baryon cycle of gas flows around galaxies; black hole-galaxy co-evolution; reionisation and the first galaxies; the impact of background cosmology on the long-term efficiency of star formation. We also intend our work to provide novel mock datasets for major new surveys from X-ray to radio, investigating how such data can disentangle the roles of star formation, stellar feedback, black holes, and large-scale structure in shaping the observed galaxy population.

We are seeking applicants with a strong background in theoretical cosmology, the manipulation of large datasets, and working with cosmological simulations. Expertise in hydrodynamic simulations and/or semi-analytic galaxy formation would be a particular advantage. Successful candidates would have access to substantial computational resources, including Archer - the UK National Supercomputer.

We expect to make up to three appointments. The contracts will be for an initial period of two years, with the possibility of extension. The start date is nominally September 2017, but with significant flexibility. The positions are open to applicants of all nationalities; applications from minorities are strongly encouraged.

Applications must be made online for vacancy reference 037964 at www.vacancies.ed.ac.uk. Applicants should supply a CV, bibliography, plus a research proposal of up to three pages. Informal enquiries may be made to Prof Romeel Dave (romeeld@gmail.com). Letters of recommendation from two referees should be sent directly by email to Prof Dave by the closing date.

Salary Scale: Grade 7 £32004 - £38183

Closing date: 15 December 2016.