Research Assistant/Associate in Cosmology

We are a world class research-intensive university. We deliver teaching and learning of the highest quality. We play a leading role in economic, social and cultural development of the North East of England. Attracting and retaining high-calibre people is fundamental to our continued success.

Salary
Research Assistant - £32,546 - £34,132 per annum.
Research Associate - £35,116 - £39,355 per annum.

The role
We invite applications for a 3-year postdoctoral research position in observational cosmology, with a focus on weak gravitational lensing. This position is funded by an STFC Small Award and will be supervised by Dr Danielle Leonard.

Newcastle University is home to an exciting and lively cosmology research group, with a strong focus on weak lensing as well as complementary research across strong lensing, early Universe theory, alternative dark matter models, and statistical methods for cosmology. For more information see the cosmology as well as the broader observational astronomy group webpages.

In this role, you will focus on further developing and applying the Multi-Estimator Method for Intrinsic Alignments (MEM-IA), which uses multiple shear estimators applied to the same galaxy sample to measure the intrinsic alignment signal without the need for precision redshift information. You will create and analyse galaxy image simulations with realistic intrinsic alignment effects, apply shear estimators to simulated and real image data, and use the resulting measurements to constrain intrinsic alignment models. You will work with collaborators in the LSST Dark Energy Science Collaboration and may also apply to join the Euclid Consortium.

In addition to project-specific activities, you will be encouraged to pursue your own independent research and training. In addition, you may undertake outreach/engagement activities, particularly those designed to increase accessibility and inclusion to science.

The position is fixed-term, with full time hours (37 per week) and an estimated start date of July 1, 2025 (although candidates seeking a later start date are encouraged to apply as this may be flexible). Generous funds for travel and training are available. Start dates and flexible working are negotiable. We are committed to building and maintaining a fair and inclusive working environment.

For informal inquiries, please contact Dr Danielle Leonard (danielle.leonard@newcastle.ac.uk).

To apply, please complete the online application and attach a: (1) CV (no page limit), and (2) a covering letter combined with a research statement (max 3 pages). In your covering letter, please outline how you are either working towards, meet or exceed all of the essential requirements for the role holder as outlined on the university's website, accessed by the 'Apply' button. The research statement should explain how your research experience is suitable for the post and how your research interests will align with those performed in the group.

Qualifications
Research Assistant Position:

• Studying for a PhD in Astrophysics or a closely related discipline (or exceptionally equivalent professional experience).

Research Associate Position:

• PhD awarded in Astrophysics or a closely related discipline (or exceptionally equivalent professional experience).

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