Postdoctoral Research Assistant in Cosmology

University of Oxford; Oxford; On-site; GBP 60,000 - 80,000; Full time

Job summary

A prestigious research institution is seeking a Postdoctoral Research Assistant in Cosmology to lead the development of simulations and explore innovative analysis methods. This position is a collaboration between two renowned institutions, offering a unique opportunity to work with leading researchers. Candidates should have a PhD in Physics or a related field, and previous experience in cosmological simulations is highly desirable. The role also includes teaching opportunities and spans two locations over three years.

Qualifications

• PhD or close to completion in Physics or related field is required.
• Experience in cosmological simulations and/or analysis of datasets is preferred.
• Knowledge of machine learning methods applied to cosmology is advantageous.

Responsibilities

• Lead the development of realistic simulations of a galaxy and other observables.
• Explore novel analysis methods using the simulations.
• Encourage collaborations with IPMU and Oxford groups.
• Provide teaching opportunities.

Skills

Cosmological simulations

Analysis of cosmic microwave background

Machine learning methods applied to cosmology

Education

PhD in Physics or related field

Job description

Overview

The successful candidate will lead the develop of realistic simulations of a galaxy, lensing, X-ray and CMB secondary observables. This will be built on the backlight simulations, a new large suite of cosmological simulations designed for multiwavelength cosmological modelling. Once in hand, the candidate will use the simulations to explore novel analysis methods with the goal of applying them to data. Collaborative endeavours with members of the IPMU and Oxford groups is highly encouraged. You will have the opportunity to teach.

Responsibilities

• Lead the develop of realistic simulations of a galaxy, lensing, X-ray and CMB secondary observables, built on the backlight simulations.
• Use the simulations to explore novel analysis methods with the goal of applying them to data.
• Foster collaborative endeavours with members of the IPMU and Oxford groups.
• Provide teaching opportunities as part of the role.

Qualifications

• Applicants should have a PhD (or close to completion) in Physics or a related field.
• Previous experience in cosmological simulations, analysis of cosmic microwave background and/or large-scale structure datasets, machine learning methods applied to cosmology, or theoretical modelling of cosmological observables will be an advantage.

Position Details

Physics (Astrophysics), University of Oxford and Kavli Institute for the Physics and Mathematics of the Universe, University of Tokyo.

Applications are invited for a Postdoctoral Research Assistant in Cosmology. Cosmology is in a golden era with multi-wavelength surveys spanning the entire electromagnetic spectrum and beyond with gravitational waves. This is a joint position between the University of Oxford and Kavli Institute for the Physics and Mathematics of the Universe, University of Tokyo, structured such that the first 18 months of this position will be based in Oxford, with Dr Will Coulton, and the second 18 months at IPMU, with Dr Leander Thiele. Oxford hosts a large cosmology group with expertise in theoretical, observational, and numerical cosmology.