Research Associate Jobs

Research Associate Jobs

 

This is an exciting opportunity for suitably qualified people to play leading roles in establishing the UK ALMA Regional Support Centre (ARC) as a major focus for ALMA related science in the United Kingdom. The ARC node, based in the Jodrell Bank Centre for Astrophysics (JBCA) on the University of Manchester campus, is offering two research positions commencing October 2010. The node, which employs four associated staff members and hosts an ESO CoFund Fellow, was established in October 2009 as an integral part of an international support network for European users of the Atacama Large Millimetre/submm Array  http://www.alma.ac.uk ). 

ALMA has already produced images with the first three of its 60+ antennas. During the next few years it will progress from early science to full operations, opening a unique window on the cool Universe, from nearby planet formation to Milky Way precursors at high redshift.

Successful candidates will spend 75% of their time as part of the team enhancing and extending support for astronomers planning ALMA observations, acquiring and processing data. This will involve face to face support, the passing on of mmwave interferometry skills, and the testing and enhancement of software and imaging tools, with the exact balance of activities to be agreed after appointment. Each successful candidate will be expected to engage in their own independent research program (25%) focused on ALMA science. Astronomical research at JBCA  covers a wide range of areas with many extensive programmes planned to utilize ALMA. Support personnel for new facilities frequently become involved with a number of projects in order to utilize their technical expertise, thus building their collaborative network. As a member of the UK community, ARC staff will have access to both ESO and UK facilities including ALMA, JCMT, eMERLIN, and SCUBA2.

Applications are invited for two Research Associate posts:

 

PDF containing fuller details

Closing date 3 September 2010.

Applicants must have a strong research record and observational expertise preferably in the field of mm and submm astronomy with interferometry experience.  Successful applicants must be willing and able to acquire skills in both interferometry and mm/submm astronomy, if they are not as yet expert in  these areas.  A PhD is required. The position is open to all nationalities and the appointment will be for up to 3 years.

Salary range: £28,983 – £35,646

Informal enquires may be made to:

Dr. Gary Fuller (g.fuller@manchester.ac.uk) +44(0) 161 3063653

Dr. Tom Muxlow (t.muxlow@manchester.ac.uk) +44(0) 161 2754108

Dr. Anita Richards (a.m.s.richards@manchester.ac.uk) +44(0) 161 2754243

Application forms and further particulars are available from our website,  job reference numbers EPS/10597, EPS/10598

 

Applicants should submit a full CV, a brief summary of their relevant research experience, and a research plan.