Research Associate - 3 yr Term

University of Toronto; Toronto; On-site; CAD 53,000 - 101,000; Full time

Job summary

The Dunlap Institute for Astronomy and Astrophysics at a prestigious university is seeking a Research Associate in Radio Polarimetry for a three-year term. The role involves developing automated processing pipelines for radio astronomical data and conducting independent research. Ideal candidates will hold a PhD and have postdoctoral experience in astrophysics with a focus on radio polarization, strong scientific writing skills, and the ability to lead teams. This is an opportunity to contribute to cutting-edge research in astronomy while mentoring students.

Qualifications

• PhD or equivalent in astrophysics, astronomy, or physics.
• At least one year of relevant postdoctoral experience.
• Experience in radio polarization processing.
• Advanced skills in radio interferometry and survey science.

Responsibilities

• Develop automated processing pipelines for dynamic data sets.
• Conduct self-directed research in Galactic or extragalactic radio astronomy.
• Supervise undergraduate and graduate students.

Skills

Scientific writing

Team collaboration

Radio polarization processing

Radio interferometry

Education

PhD in astrophysics, astronomy, or physics

Job description

Date Posted: 07/22/2025
Req ID: 44408
Faculty/Division: Faculty of Arts & Science
Department: Dunlap Inst. for Astronomy & Astrophysics
Campus: St. George (Downtown Toronto)

Description:

The Dunlap Institute for Astronomy and Astrophysics at the University of Toronto invites applications for a Research Associate in Radio Polarimetry (Limited Term) for a three-year appointment, to join the Canadian Data Intensive Astrophysics Platform (CanDIAPL). The responsibilities will be as follows:

1. 75%: Development of automated processing pipelines and triggers/alerts for dynamic data sets from the new Polarization Sky Survey of the Universe’s Magnetism (POSSUM) using the Australian Square Kilometre Array Pathfinder (ASKAP), supervised by Prof Hložek and in collaboration with Prof Bryan Gaensler (University of California, Santa Cruz) and the rest of the CanDIAPL and POSSUM teams.
2. 25%: Self-directed research in Galactic or extragalactic radio astronomy, in consultation with Prof Hložek and Prof Gaensler.

In all these activities, there is the expectation that the appointee will supervise the work of undergraduates and graduate students.

The appointment is for three years, with the possibility of renewal, subject to funding. The anticipated start date is September 1, 2025, or as mutually agreed.

Application Process:

Applicants should apply online at the link below and include a covering letter, curriculum vitae, and three reference names with their contact addresses and phone numbers. Any questions regarding this position should be directed to #.

About the Dunlap Institute:

The Dunlap Institute pursues groundbreaking astronomical research across the electromagnetic spectrum, through innovative approaches to instrumentation, data-driven science, and observations, alongside a substantive commitment to outreach and training. The Dunlap Institute, David A. Dunlap Department of Astronomy and Astrophysics (DADDAA), and the Canadian Institute for Theoretical Astrophysics (CITA) host more than 150 staff and students conducting diverse research across instrumentation, observation, computation, and theory. Located on a historic campus in Toronto, the city offers a vibrant cultural scene and high quality of life.

Eligibility:

All qualified individuals are encouraged to apply; however, Canadians and permanent residents will be given priority.

Minimum Qualifications:

• PhD or equivalent in astrophysics, astronomy, or physics
• At least one year of relevant postdoctoral experience
• Experience in radio polarization processing
• Advanced skills in radio interferometry, radio polarimetry, pipelines, and survey science
• Record of lead-author publications in high-impact journals
• Excellence in scientific writing and communication
• Ability to work with students and effectively in a team

Preferred Experience:

• Understanding of radio astronomical instrumentation and polarization calibration

Closing Date: 07/31/2025, 11:59PM ET

Employee Group: Research Associate

Appointment Type: Grant - Term

Schedule: Full-Time

Pay Scale Group & Hiring Zone: R01 -- Research Associates (Limited Term): $53,520 - $100,350

Job Category: Research Administration & Teaching