Postdoctoral Research Assistant in Exoplanet Formation and Evolution

Applications are invited for a Postdoctoral Research Assistant in modelling the dynamical evolution of extrasolar planetary systems at the Institute for Astronomy (IfA), Royal Observatory Edinburgh.

The successful candidate will work with Dr. Ken Rice and will use theoretical models to investigate the origins and evolution of exoplanets. Of particular interest will be close-in exoplanets, those that are mis-aligned, and co-planar, multi-planet systems. However, the work will not be restricted solely to these topics and may also include considering directly imaged exoplanets and anything else related to planet formation and evolution.

The project is part of the EATEARTH consortium, funded by an FP7-SPACE grant, and is associated with the HARPS-N consortium. Depending on the interests of the applicant, there may be opportunities to get involved in observing as part of the HARPS-N project. Experience with modelling the dynamical evolution of exoplanetary systems is not a requirement, but would be considered a plus.

The appointment will be for two years, with potential for a one year renewal, starting in Spring 2014, with flexibility on the start date.

Informal enquiries may be made to Dr Ken Rice (wkmr@roe see footnote). Applications from minorities and women are strongly encouraged. 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 Dr Rice by the closing date.

Applications must be made online for vacancy reference 026509 at www.jobs.ed.ac.uk (was 024412).

Salary Scale: Grade 7 £30,728 - £36,661.
Closing date: 28 February 2014.

All emails addresses are @roe.ac.uk.