We seek applications for a Postdoctoral Research Associate in the field of galaxy and AGN evolution to advance our understanding of galaxy evolution and the role of active galactic nuclei in this process across cosmic time.
The Opportunity:
The successful candidate will join the research group led by Professor Philip Best at the Institute for Astronomy (IfA) at the University of Edinburgh. They will work together with Professor Best on a variety of projects in the area of galaxy and AGN evolution, depending upon their experience and research interests. Candidates with an interest in pursuing research related to the LOFAR extragalactic radio surveys and the JWST Emission Line Survey are particularly welcome. There will also be an opportunity for the successful candidate to lead further independent research projects.
This post is full-time (35 hours per week); however, we are open to considering part-time or flexible working patterns. We are also open to considering requests for hybrid working (on a non-contractual basis) that combine a mix of remote and regular on-campus working.
The salary for this post is UE07, £40,247- £47,874 per annum.
The post is fixed term for 36 months, with a start date ideally between 1st May 2025 and 1st October 2025.
Your skills and attributes for success:
- PhD (completed by post-start date) in Astronomy or a related subject
- Relevant research experience in galaxy evolution and/or AGN.
- Record of high-quality lead-author and co-authored refereed journal publications (relative to career stage).
- Capable of working independently, exercising a high degree of initiative, and with the ability to think creatively
- Good timekeeping and time management, with effective prioritisation of tasks.
- Ability to communicate complex information clearly, orally and in writing.
- [Desirable:] Experience working with large, multi-wavelength datasets and advanced data analysis techniques.
Click to view a copy of the full job description (opens new browser tab)
Application Information
Please ensure you include the following documents in your application:
- CV and publication list
- Cover letter
- Statement of current and proposed research (2 pages maximum)
- Details of two referees
As a valued member of our team, you can expect:
- A stimulating research environment, located at the Royal Observatory Edinburgh on Blackford Hill that includes numerous researchers, fellows and students within the University’s Institute for Astronomy as well as at the co-located UK Astronomy Technology Centre and Higgs Centre for Innovation.
- A competitive salary and comprehensive Staff Benefits, such as generous holiday entitlement, competitive pension schemes, staff discounts, and family-friendly initiatives. Check out the full list on our staff benefits page (opens in a new tab) and use our reward calculator to discover the total value of your pay and benefits
- To be part of a diverse and vibrant international community
Championing equality, diversity and inclusion
The School of Physics and Astronomy at the University of Edinburgh is committed to encouraging equality and diversity among our workforce, and eliminating discrimination. The School strives to create a more diverse, equitable and inclusive workplace for all, and we are looking to actively diversify our staff. We welcome applications from all qualified candidates and, in particular, encourage applications from people of colour, women, people with disabilities, LGBTQ+ people and other minority and under-represented groups. We aim to ensure that our culture and systems support flexible and family-friendly working, as evidenced by our Juno Champion and Athena SWAN Silver awards.
The University of Edinburgh holds a Silver Athena SWAN award in recognition of our commitment to advancing gender equality in higher education. We are members of the Race Equality Charter, and we are also Stonewall Scotland Diversity Champions, actively promoting LGBT equality.
Prior to any employment commencing with the university, you will be required to provide evidence of your right to work in the UK. Further information is available on our right to work webpages (opens new browser tab).
The University is able to sponsor the employment of international workers in this role. If successful, an international applicant requiring sponsorship to work in the UK will need to satisfy the UK Home Office’s English Language requirements and apply for and secure a Skilled Worker Visa. Please note if the role is offered on a part-time basis, it may result in sponsorship being dependant on a number of factors specific to the successful applicant or the role no longer meeting the Home Office’s criteria for sponsorship.
Key dates to note
The closing date for applications is 21st February 2025
Unless stated otherwise, the closing time for applications is 11:59 pm GMT. If you are applying outside the UK, the closing time on our adverts automatically adjusts to your browser's local time zone.
Interviews are expected to be held during the week commencing 3rd March.
About Us
As a world-leading research-intensive University, we are here to address tomorrow’s greatest challenges. Between now and 2030 we will do that with a values-led approach to teaching, research and innovation, and through the strength of our relationships, both locally and globally.
About the Team
The Institute for Astronomy (IFA) is a research and teaching group within the School. It is one of the UK's major centres of astronomical research, with special strengths in survey astronomy, cosmology, active galaxies and the formation of stars and planets.
The IfA runs introductory courses in astronomy for students of any discipline at the first-year level, Honours Degree courses in Astrophysics (both BSc and MPhys), and research degrees leading to the award of PhD in astronomy. The IfA is co-located with the Astronomy Technology Centre on Blackford Hill at the Royal Observatory, Edinburgh.
Find out more at Institute for Astronomy | Institute for Astronomy (roe.ac.uk)
