Research Assistant/Associate: CMB Cosmology (Fixed Term)

We invite applications for a postdoctoral researcher to work on CMB cosmology as part of the Simons Observatory (SO):UK project. The SO is a CMB experiment under construction in the Atacama Desert in Chile with full operations expected in early 2025. Successful candidates will work with Anthony Challinor, Blake Sherwin and their groups on development of the SO data-processing pipeline and delivery of Science Ready Data Products (SRDPs), focusing on validation of SRDPs for gravitational lensing studies and developing simulations to interpret high-resolution data from the Large-Aperture Telescope.

SO:UK is the UK contribution to the US-led SO project consisting of: a data centre; a program of algorithm development contributing to pipeline development; and an instrumentation contribution, including provision of two Small-Aperture Telescopes for degree-scale B-mode measurements. A key area is delivery of SRDPs.

Candidates must possess significant theoretical/analytic skills and experience in developing/applying analyses for precision CMB studies/relevant fields. Candidates will collaborate internationally with colleagues, will interact closely with staff and students, disseminate research findings via publications/media (international workshops/conferences), and are encouraged to participate in teaching and learning.

The IoA provides a vibrant research environment in cosmology. The interdepartmental Kavli Institute for Cosmology is located on the same site as the IoA, fostering connections with those conducting complementary research.

Applicants must have a PhD in Astronomy or related field*.  Applicants must possess a scientific publication record and a clear outline of current/future research areas. Applicants must have excellent communication and computing skills.

The appointment will be at Grade 7 (Research Associate) £36,024 - £44,263 p.a. (Grade 7, Pts 41 - 48), depending on experience/qualifications. *A successful candidate not yet awarded a PhD will be appointed at Grade 5 (Research Assistant) £32,982 - £33,966 (Grade 5, Pts 38 - 39) and amended to Research Associate (Grade 7) upon confirmation of PhD.

Fixed-term: The funds for this post are available for two years in the first instance, with the expectation of extension for a further year (subject to funding availability)

The post is full-time, but applications are welcome from those who would like to work flexibly

The University of Cambridge thrives on the diversity of its staff and students. The IoA particularly welcomes applications from women and/or candidates from a BME background for this vacancy as they are currently under-represented. We have an active Equality and Diversity Committee which continually works to further the aims of the Athena SWAN charter. The University has several family-friendly policies and initiatives, including a returning-carer scheme, childcare costs support, university workplace nurseries, university holiday play-schemes, and a shared parental-leave policy. As part of its commitment to providing a family-friendly environment for researchers, the IoA ensures that should parental leave be needed during the course of employment, there is provision for extension to contract to compensate for the parental leave taken.

Please upload your CV, cover letter, publications list and research statement (three A4 pages maximum, 11pt font) in the Upload section. Names and contact details of three academic referees are essential. Please advise referees that references will be requested by 8 December 2024. 

Starting: October 2025 or earlier.

The University actively supports equality, diversity and inclusion and encourages applications from all sections of society.

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