Research Fellow WF)

Discover Your Next Breakthrough in Astronomy: A Research Opportunity at the University of Southampton

Are you a passionate researcher eager to contribute to the forefront of astronomical discovery? The University of Southampton's Astronomy Group presents a compelling opportunity for individuals driven by the pursuit of new cosmic knowledge. This role offers the chance to work with groundbreaking observatories and instruments, shaping our understanding of the universe.

Key Advantages for Your Career Path:

• Pioneering Research: This position places you at the heart of two transformative projects: the Vera C. Rubin Observatory's Legacy Survey of Space Time (LSST) and the Time Domain Extragalactic Survey (TiDES) powered by the 4MOST spectroscopic experiment. You'll be instrumental in generating new science from LSST, the most comprehensive ground-based optical survey ever conceived, and contributing to TiDES's extensive spectroscopic observations of transient events and their host galaxies.
• Cutting-Edge Instrumentation: Engage directly with state-of-the-art technology. You'll play a vital role in developing the infrastructure for the TiDES experiment and its integration with transient alert streams, offering invaluable hands-on experience with advanced astronomical tools.
• Collaborative and Inclusive Environment: Join a vibrant research team led by Professor Mark Sullivan and collaborate not only within the Astronomy Group but also with international LSST and 4MOST/TiDES collaborations. This extensive network provides unparalleled opportunities for learning, mentorship, and exposure to diverse research perspectives.
• Impactful Science: Contribute to exciting, cutting-edge science, particularly in the study of supernovae and transients, and their application to cosmological questions. Your work will directly support supernova cosmology experiments, pushing the boundaries of our understanding of the universe's expansion and evolution.
• Support for Diverse Career Paths: The University of Southampton is deeply committed to diversity and inclusion. They actively encourage applications from individuals from under-represented groups in Physics and Astronomy and are very supportive of flexible working arrangements, including part-time roles. They also offer a generous maternity policy and onsite childcare facilities, recognizing the importance of supporting researchers throughout their careers.

Key Considerations for Aspiring Candidates:

• Educational Foundation: A PhD in Astronomy, Astrophysics, or a closely related field is a requirement for this position. This ensures a strong theoretical and practical basis for tackling complex research challenges.
• Relevant Experience: While a range of backgrounds are welcomed, candidates with direct experience in supernova surveys/observations and their interpretation, or a solid understanding of supernova astrophysics or cosmology, will find their existing skills highly valuable and immediately applicable.
• Project Duration and Funding: This is a fixed-term position initially funded for 12 months, with a strong likelihood of extension to 24 months. Candidates should consider how this timeframe aligns with their long-term career objectives.
• Contribution to Infrastructure: A significant aspect of this role involves developing the infrastructure and interface for the TiDES experiment. This requires a proactive and problem-solving approach to technical development.

This is an exceptional opportunity for a dedicated researcher to make a tangible impact on astronomical understanding. If you are driven by discovery and eager to contribute to large-scale, high-impact scientific endeavors, we encourage you to explore this exciting prospect.