Research Associate in Accretion Disc Physics (Fixed Term)

Applications are invited for a Postdoctoral Research Associate position in the Astrophysics Group at the University of Cambridge, Department of Applied Mathematics and Theoretical Physics (DAMTP). The successful candidate will work with Prof. Roman Rafikov on theoretical and computational projects related to the astrophysical fluid dynamics, accretion discs and their boundary layers.

The successful candidates will have, or be about to obtain, a PhD in a relevant area of theoretical astrophysics, fluid dynamics, or magnetohydrodynamics, and have an established track record of original research and experience of working in collaboration. Applicants with expertise in large-scale hydrodynamic or magnetohydrodynamic simulations of accretion discs are particularly encouraged to apply.

Duties include developing and conducting individual and collaborative research projects. You will be expected to plan and manage your own research and administration, with guidance from academic staff. You must be able to communicate material of a technical nature and be able to build internal and external contacts. You may be asked to assist in the supervision of student projects, the development of student research skills, provide instruction, or plan/deliver seminars relating to the research area.

The position is expected to be available from 1 September 2025, but the start date is flexible and could be delayed until 1 October 2025.

The Astrophysics Group at DAMTP has a long tradition of theoretical and numerical research in astrophysical fluid dynamics. Further information about the group can be found at http://damtp.cam.ac.uk/research/astro/.

Fixed-term: The funds for this post are available for 18 months.

To apply online for this vacancy and to view further information about the role, please click the 'Apply' button above. 

Please indicate the contact details of three academic referees on the online application form and upload a full curriculum vitae and a description of your recent research (not to exceed three pages). Please ensure that all your referees are contactable at any time during the selection process, and are made aware that they will be contacted by the Mathematics HR Office Administrator to request that they upload a reference for you to our Web Recruitment System; and please encourage them to do so promptly.

The closing date for applications is 24 February 2025.

Informal enquiries can be made by contacting LE44931@maths.cam.ac.uk or Prof. Roman Rafikov at rrr34@cam.ac.uk.

Please quote reference LE44931 on your application and in any correspondence about this vacancy.

The University actively supports equality, diversity and inclusion and encourages applications from all sections of society. We particularly welcome applications from women and /or candidates from a BAME background for this vacancy as they are currently under-represented at this level in our Department.

The University has a responsibility to ensure that all employees are eligible to live and work in the UK.

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