Job Description
Job Summary
Salary: Full-time starting salary: £35,880 to £45,163 (Grade 7), with potential progression to £47,874.
Contract Type: Fixed-term until March 2028.
Location: University of Birmingham, UK.
Overview
The Astrophysics and Space Research group at the University of Birmingham invites applications for a three-year postdoctoral position in theoretical high-energy astrophysics. This role focuses on the modeling of tidal disruption events (TDEs) and their potential to explore supermassive black holes, as part of the ERC Starting Grant project “Unleash-TDEs” led by Dr. Clément Bonnerot.
The Astrophysics and Space Research group offers a vibrant and inclusive environment with expertise spanning theoretical and observational extragalactic astrophysics and gravitational-wave astronomy. For a list of group members, visit: Astrophysics and Space Research Group Members.
Key Responsibilities
The successful candidate will:
- Conduct research on tidal disruption events using hydrodynamics simulations and other advanced theoretical techniques.
- Collaborate with Dr. Clément Bonnerot and a network of local and international partners.
- Develop independent research ideas and projects in related areas.
- Disseminate research findings through publications, seminars, and conferences.
- Supervise students, acquire teaching experience, and participate in outreach initiatives.
- Contribute to organizing international workshops and meetings.
Benefits
- Generous travel funding for conferences and research visits.
- Access to the university’s high-performance computing resources, including the BlueBEAR supercomputer.
- Comprehensive support for professional development and career training.
Person Specification
Essential Criteria:
- PhD (or near completion) in physics, astrophysics, mathematics, computer science, or a related field.
- Expertise in high-energy astrophysical systems, with a focus on tidal disruption events, hydrodynamics simulations, radiation transport, magnetic fields, or general relativity.
- Strong analytical and computational skills.
Desirable Criteria:
- Experience with supervising students or contributing to teaching.
- A collaborative and independent approach to research.
Application Details
Deadline: 5th January 2025.
Start Date: April 2025 (negotiable).
Applications must include:
- CV.
- Full list of publications.
- Statement of research interests and future plans (maximum two pages).
Additionally, candidates must arrange for three letters of recommendation to be sent directly to Nicola Holloway at n.holloway@bham.ac.uk by the application deadline.
For informal inquiries, please contact Dr. Clément Bonnerot at c.a.bonnerot@bham.ac.uk.
Why Join the University of Birmingham?
- A dynamic and diverse research environment in a world-class institution.
- Access to cutting-edge facilities and support for professional growth.
- Commitment to diversity, inclusion, and flexible working arrangements.
Apply now to contribute to groundbreaking research in astrophysics and make a meaningful impact in the scientific community.