Postdoctoral Research Associate (Astronomy)

Full-Time, Fixed-Term (3 years)

Post Overview:

Applications are invited for the post of a Postdoctoral Research Associate in the Astronomy Group as part of the STFC Small Astronomy project “INTIME: Inferring the timing properties of neutron stars with hierarchical profile-domain timing” led by Dr Greg Ashton.

The successful candidate will join Royal Holloway’s Astronomy Group and conduct research activities related to pulsar astronomy. The primary aim will be the development of a new hierarchical framework for profile-domain timing, but a wide range of activities in this broad area will be encouraged. The successful applicant is expected to help produce independent and original research within Royal Holloway’s Centre for Particle Physics and Astronomy, submit publications to refereed journals, and work with and help supervise BSc, MSci, and PhD students.

The successful applicant will have a PhD in Astrophysics, Theoretical Physics, or a related discipline and prior experience relevant to one or more of the following research disciplines: (i) neutron star astrophysics or (ii) radio pulsar astronomy. It is also desirable if the post holder has experience in the development of production-quality software, the application of Simulation Based Inference and strong communication skills.

For more information see the detailed job description and person specification. 

Research Environment:

Royal Holloway’s Astronomy Group covers a wide range of topics in astrophysics and astronomy, including stellar astrophysics, supernovae, radio pulsars, gravitational-wave astronomy, and cosmology. Leveraging state-of-the-art observational facilities such as JWST, the Hubble Space Telescope, the LIGO/VIRGO gravitational-wave detectors, and the Euclid satellite, we investigate fundamental questions about the nature of celestial objects, the evolution of galaxies, and the structure of the Universe itself. We are also actively involved in the utilisation of upcoming facilities such as the Square Kilometre Array Observatory. The Astronomy Group specifically focuses on applying advanced Artificial Intelligence (AI) methods to astrophysical research. As a result, we actively collaborate with experts in Computer Science as part of Royal Holloway’s Centre for AI.

Royal Holloway offers an extensive rewards and benefits package including generous annual leave as well as a wide variety of training and development opportunities specifically tailored to Early Career Researchers.

The post will be based in Egham where the College is situated in a beautiful leafy campus near to Windsor Great Park and within commuting distance of London. Royal Holloway also recognises the importance of helping its employees balance their work and home life by offering flexible working arrangements. The University and the Department of Physics are further committed to creating a positive and inclusive environment. We, for example, host a variety of initiatives to support our students and staff including a LGBT+ Staff network, Disability and Mental Health Staff network, Black and Global Majority Staff Network, Parents and Carers Network and Women in Physics group.

Additional Information:

This is a full-time post, available from 1 July 2025 or as soon as possible thereafter for a fixed-term period of 3 years at Royal Holloway, University of London.

Interested applicants must complete an online application form to apply. The applicant must complete a set of supporting statements in reference to the selection criteria, upload a CV, a list of publications (these may be attached to the CV), and provide names of two referees. Reference letters will only be requested for shortlisted candidates.

In return we offer a highly competitive rewards and benefits package including:

For an informal discussion about the post, please feel free to contact Dr Greg Ashton by emailing gregory.ashton@rhul.ac.uk

For queries on the application process the Human Resources Department can be contacted by email at: recruitment@rhul.ac.uk 

Please quote the reference: 0425-076

Closing Date:   23:59, 1 May 2025

Interview Date: To be confirmed

Closing Date: 01 May 2025

Section: Research

Salary: £40,839 to £48,003 per annum - including London Allowance