Senior Research Associate in Supernova Cosmology

The Lancaster University Physics Department seeks to appoint a postdoctoral researcher in supernova cosmology.

The work will make use of new data from the future Rubin Observatory, which will carry out the Legacy Survey of Space and Time (LSST), the future spectroscopic instrument 4MOST, and the Euclid mission (launched in July 2023). Lancaster University is involved in the Time Domain Extragalactic Survey (TiDES) project, which will use 4MOST to obtain spectra of tens of thousands of transients discovered by LSST and other surveys. These new facilities will cover thousands of square degrees in common in their wide surveys plus coordinated deep fields, and together will revolutionise the use of Type Ia supernovae (SNe Ia) for cosmology. 

In addition to assisting with the real-time operation of TiDES, the successful candidate will contribute to collecting and analysing new data on host galaxies of SNe Ia. He/she will combine imaging and spectroscopic information in the optical and near-infrared (NIR) bands, to further control systematic effects in supernova cosmology.

This position is funded for 2 years and comes with a budget for travel. 

People with experience in optical/ NIR surveys for astronomical transients are encouraged to apply. Experience in the management of large datasets and experience in the use of software tools relevant for the selection, follow-up and analysis of supernovae and their host galaxies are desirable. 

Prospective candidates are encouraged to contact Prof. Isobel Hook (i.hook@lancaster.ac.uk) for further information on the position before submitting their application. 

The selected candidate would work under the supervision of Prof. Isobel Hook, and will join the Observational Astrophysics group at Lancaster. Members of the group pursue research in diverse and complementary topics including transients, high-redshift galaxies, star formation, galaxy evolution, multi-messenger astrophysics, gravitational waves and citizen science projects. You will be welcome to participate in group research activities. 

You must have earned a PhD in astronomy or a related field by the start date. Further criteria are given in the attached job description and person specification. To apply, you should submit (1) a curriculum vitae with publications list; (2) a statement describing your interest in and suitability for the position, not to exceed 2 pages; and (3) a list containing contact information for 2 reference letter writers. Letters of reference will be requested for shortlisted candidates. 

Closing Date: 31 Mar 2025

Department: Academic

Salary: £39,355 to £45,413 (Full time, indefinite with end date)