Postdoctoral Research Assistant in Astronomical Instrumentation and for Extra-solar Planet Characterisation

Applications are invited for a Postdoctoral Research Assistant in astronomical instrumentation for extra-solar planet characterisation.

The post is available initially for a fixed-term duration of 30 months , with the possibility of 1-2 years extension subject to successful funding renewal.

This project will compare, using a laboratory experiment, the use of lenslet-array and image-slicer based integral field spectrographs for ELT-PCS with the aim to determine the best suitable technology, for PCS.

The successful candidate will work in a small team and help setup a laboratory experiment to quantify and determine the limitations on the contrast ratio achievable with both types of integral field spectrographs. You will be involved in the characterisation of both integral field units, the alignment and characterisation of the spectrograph optics, and the setup of the experiment including light sources, camera, and control software. In addition, you will conduct the contrast measurements, and analyse the acquired data. The experiment will also be taken to ESO’s headquarters in Garching, Germany, where we will integrate it into the GHOST adaptive optics bench and repeat the contrast measurements.

Applicants should possess, or  be close to obtaining a doctorate in Astronomy, Physics, Engineering, or a related field, and ideally have a strong background in astronomical instrumentation, data reduction and analysis.

Previous experience in the field of adaptive optics assisted, near-infrared integral field spectroscopy will be an advantage, in particular high-contrast observations in the field of “Direct Imaging”, and its data analysis, for example “Speckle Suppression” using angular differential imaging, spectral deconvolution, or molecular mapping.

Candidates are expected to demonstrate experience in at least one of: (1) optical design; (2) mechanical design; (3) assembly; (4) integration; (5) testing of a relevant astronomical instrumentation project, either at pre-doctoral or post-doctoral level.

The post-holder will have the opportunity to teach.

Please direct enquiries about the role to Dr Matthias Tecza (matthias.tecza@physics.ox.ac.uk)

Only applications received before midday 30 August 2024 can be considered. You will be required to upload a brief statement of research interests, CV and details of two referees as part of your online application.

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