2X Post-Doctoral Positions Available in Theoretical Astrophysics


Raphael Hirschi

Keele University, ST5 5BG, UK

Keele University expects to appoint two PDRAs for a duration of 3 years, in order to conduct research on (1) theoretical nuclear astrophysics (NUCASTRO) and (2) theoretical stellar astrophysics (3D1D).
The appointed PDRAs will work in the group of Dr Raphael Hirschi within the Astrophysics Group at Keele University as part of an ERC-funded project entitled “Stellar HYdrodynamics, Nucleosynthesis and Evolution” (SHYNE). The ERC starting grant awarded to Dr Hirschi provides funding for 2 postdocs and 2 PhD students. The grant also provides funding for a dedicated 1500-CPU computer cluster, including 384 CPUs sharing memory via Numascale technology.

(1) The NUCASTRO PDRA will lead the nuclear astrophysics component of this project, which includes large-scale, Mont-Carlo based, sensitivity studies as well as impact studies of reaction rates relevant for the different nucleosynthesis processes.

Applicants for the NUCASTRO PDRA should have or expect to obtain a PhD in nuclear physics or astrophysics or a related area and should have a demonstrated aptitude for research. Experience in theoretical nuclear astrophysics is highly desirable.

(2) The 3D1D PDRA will lead the component of this project related to 3D-1D modelling of stellar interiors. This will include a range of computer simulations including 1D stellar evolution and 3D hydrodynamics simulations with as main goal to improve modelling of convection and rotation in stellar evolution.

Applicants for the 3D1D PDRA should have or expect to obtain a PhD in theoretical stellar astrophysics or a related area and should have a demonstrated aptitude for research. Experience in stellar evolution modelling and 3D hydrodynamic simulations is highly desirable.

The two PDRAs will also contribute to the other components of the project and be encouraged to develop their own research program and their leadership skills. The appointment will be made for an initial term of 3 years (with a possible extension of 2 extra years), with a likely starting date of November 1 2012 or as soon as possible after that date.

Job packs available: www.keele.ac.uk/jobs, vacancies@keele.ac.uk, Human Resources, Keele University, Staffordshire, ST5 5BG or Fax: 01782 733471.

Further details of the posts are available at http://www.keele.ac.uk/vacancies/academicandresearchvacancies. Please quote post reference when applying: (1) RE12/18NUCASTRO & (2) RE12/17 3D1D

Closing date for applications: 30 September 2012

Interview date and format: interviews will take place mid-October (most probably one of these dates: 10, 11, 17 or 18 October, to be confirmed) and interviews will be conducted remotely (e.g. via skype).

For further enquiries please contact Dr Raphael Hirschi at r.hirschi@epsam.keele.ac.uk.

Attention/Comments:

Weblink: http://www.keele.ac.uk/vacancies/academicandresearchvacancies

Email: r.hirschi@epsam.keele.ac.uk

Deadline: 30 September 2012