Research Associate

The role

Applications are invited to a Postdoctoral Research Associate position, working in the application of machine-learning methods to the Euclid dataset with Dr Sotiria Fotopoulou at the University of Bristol. The position is full-time open-ended contract, with current funding until 31st December 2027. Starting salaries range from £37,999 - £43,878  per annum depending on previous experience. There are additionally funds for travel and computing equipment. The successful candidate will sit in the Bristol Astrophysics Group which consists of around 40 researchers, students, and support staff. The group’s research spans a range of observational, numerical, and theoretical topics from exoplanets to extra-galactic astrophysics and cosmology. We are a diverse and friendly group and welcome candidates from all backgrounds.

What will you be doing?

The project will be based on exploiting the Euclid dataset, as part of the EU-funded Euclid Legacy Science Advanced Analysis Tools (ELSA) project. The successful candidate will extend the functionality of the Active-learning dashboard AstronomicAL to include access to the Euclid archive, and apply Unsupervised Learning and anomaly detection methods to the first quick-look (Q1) and first data release (DR1) of the photometric and spectroscopic Euclid data.

You should apply if

We encourage applications from those interested in applying machine-learning methods and further exploiting large astronomical datasets. It is expected that the applicant will have a PhD (or that their viva/defence is already scheduled) prior to starting the position. Informal enquiries (not applications) can be made to Dr Sotiria Fotopoulou (sotiria.fotopoulou@bristol.ac.uk).

Please submit a cover letter describing how your skills and experience would prepare you for this role, a CV, and research statement including information on your previous and current research. The research statement and cover letter should be no more than 2 pages each. Please also provide information for two referees who can comment on your research record and potential. 

Additional information

Contract type: Open ended with fixed funding until 31/12/2027

This advert will close at 23:59 UK time on 01/12/2024

For informal queries, please contact: Sotiria Fotopoulou (sotiria.fotopoulou@bristol.ac.uk) 

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