Research Fellow in Numerical Relativity

University of Southampton; Southampton; On-site; GBP 37,000 - 46,000; Full time

Job summary

The University of Southampton invites applications for a fixed-term postdoctoral Research Fellow in numerical relativity to contribute to simulations of neutron-star mergers as part of the STFC-funded project.

Based in the School of Mathematical Sciences, the successful candidate will engage in modelling, data analysis and collaboration with LIGO/EINSTEIN Telescope teams, and publish findings. A PhD in physics or mathematics is required or imminent.

Qualifications

• Track record in numerical relativity and related physics.
• Understanding of neutron star modelling and gravitational-wave data analysis is desirable.
• Applicants will have or be about to obtain a PhD in physics or mathematics.

Responsibilities

• Carry out numerical simulations of neutron star mergers with realistic physics.
• Develop resistive magnetohydrodynamics modelling for merger scenarios.
• Contribute to data analysis and interpretation of gravitational-wave signals.
• Collaborate with UK and international teams and prepare publications.

Skills

Numerical relativity

Data analysis

Gravitational-wave astronomy

HPC computing

Education

PhD in physics or mathematics

Tools

Python

C/C++

MPI

Job description

The University of Southampton is inviting applications for a postdoctoral position (Research Fellow) in numerical relativity.

The successful candidate will undertake research as part of the recently awarded STFC grant Simulating realistic neutron-star mergers.

Southampton's School of Mathematical Sciences is home to a large research group in gravitational physics, currently comprising 7 staff members and a number of postdocs and PhD students. Research in the group includes black-hole and neutron-star physics, gravitational-wave source modelling and data analysis, numerical relativity and gravitational self-force modelling. Members of the group are actively involved with the LIGO Scientific Collaboration, the Einstein Telescope Collaboration and the LISA Consortium. The successful applicant will contribute to work aimed at carrying out numerical simulations of neutron star mergers with realistic physics, with particular focus of resistive magnetohydrodynamics.

The ideal candidate will have a track record in numerical relativity and ideally some understanding of neutron star modelling, gravitational-wave astronomy and data analysis. Applicants will have, or be about to obtain, a relevant PhD degree in physics or mathematics.

This is a fixed term post until 30th September 2027.

A complete application should include (i) a CV, including a list of publications, and (ii) a statement of research interests (no more than 1 page).

Informal enquiries may be made to Prof. Ian Hawke at [e-mail].

Further details:

• Job Description and Person Specification
• This role does not qualify for Skilled Worker Visa sponsorship. To explore alternative UK visa options, see gov.uk

We are committed to equality, diversity and inclusion and welcome applicants who support our mission of inclusivity.

The University is a signatory of the Technician Commitment and a partner affiliate of the National Technician Development Centre (NTDC). We are committed to supporting our technical staff and offer a wide range of opportunities including networking, mentoring, training, professional registration and career development. We really value all our technical staff and recognise the broad range of skills they have in support of education, research and enterprise activities. By joining you will be part of a bigger technical community, offering support and guidance.

£37,369 to £45,641. Per annum