Stellenausschreibung: Universität Wien - Senior Scientist at the Department of Astrophysics

18.04.2023

The University of Vienna (20 faculties and centres, 184 fields of study, approx. 10.400 members of staff, about 90.000 students) seeks to fill the position from 01.01.2024 of a Senior Scientist at the Department of Astrophysics.

Reference number: 14093

We are looking for a senior scientist in Astrophysics on the topic of large astronomical data acquisition and analysis to join the research group of Prof. João Alves at the Department of Astrophysics.

The group is pursuing fundamental research in Interstellar Medium and Star Formation, using ESO and ESA telescopes, and is looking into developing an extra-solar monitoring program at the University of Vienna Figl 1.5m telescope. The group is also active in public outreach.

The Department of Astrophysics of the University of Vienna is a thriving astronomical research center in Central Europe, with young faculty investigating star and planet formation, extra-solar planets, galaxy formation and evolution, and cosmology. The department is involved in the instrumentation effort for the ESO ELT and several ESA missions and runs its own robotic 1.5m telescope, the Figl, located in the Schöpfl mountain in Austria.

The position offers substantial freedom to articulate a research program that reflects the successful candidate's interests and expertise and complements the group's research activities. The position is ideally targeted for a candidate interested in combining Astrophysics and data modeling aspects in a university setting. We are looking for a highly motivated researcher with a strong publication record in Astrophysics, with no less than five years of Postdoctoral experience. The envisioned start date is Jan 2024. The position is initially limited to an employment duration of 3 years with a transition to a permanent position possible through mutual agreement from both sides.

Duration of employment: 3 year/s

Extent of Employment: 40 hours/week

Job grading in accordance with collective bargaining agreement: §48 VwGr. B1 lit. b (postdoc) with relevant work experience determining the assignment to a particular salary grade.

Job Description:

The successful candidate will be expected to develop and apply new methods to large astronomical data sets and contribute to the development of the Figl telescope. The candidate will analyze and scientifically exploit the ESO Public Survey VISIONS, a large ESO near-infrared survey of the closest star-forming regions to Earth, led by the University of Vienna. The successful candidate will be expected to coordinate and lead the group's data analysis activities in consultation with the group leader. Ideally, the candidate will harness the emerging possibilities of large data analysis and build upon the growing interactions between astronomy, astrophysics, and data science. Furthermore, independent teaching of courses as defined by the collective agreement is part of the scope of work, as well as the supervision of students.

Profile:

  • PhD degree in astrophysics with at least five years of Postdoctoral experience;
  • Good communication skills and ability to work in a team;
  • Profound experience in acquiring and analyzing time series photometry;
  • Profound experience in acquiring and analyzing high-precision optical and infrared photometry;
  • Profound experience in the analysis of large astronomical data set (e.g., Gaia);
  • Proven ability to publish in highly ranked international journals;
  • Excellent command of written and spoken English.

Furthermore, the following skills/expertise will be an asset:

  • Experience in teaching;
  • Knowledge of academic processes and structures.

Research fields:

Main research field: Physics, Astronomy

Special research fields: Astronomy;Astrophysics 

Importance: MUST

Education:

Educational institution: University

Educational level: Physics, Mechanics, Astronomy

Importance: MUST 

Languages:

Language: English

Language level: Excellent knowledge 

Importance: MUST


Applications including a letter of motivation (German or English) should be submitted via the Job Center to the University of Vienna (http://jobcenter.univie.ac.at) no later than 26.04.2023, mentioning reference number 14093.

For further information please contact Alves, Joao +43-1-4277-53810.

The University pursues a non-discriminatory employment policy and values equal opportunities, as well as diversity (http://diversity.univie.ac.at/). The University lays special emphasis on increasing the number of women in senior and in academic positions. Given equal qualifications, preference will be given to female applicants.


Human Resources and Gender Equality of the University of Vienna

Reference number: 14093

E-Mail: jobcenter@univie.ac.at

Privacy Policy of the University of Vienna