Research Assistant/Associate in Stellar Astrophysics

Research Assistant/Associate in Stellar Astrophysics

Newcastle University

Newcastle, United Kingdom

The Role

We invite applications for a 3-year postdoctoral research position in stellar astrophysics, with a focus on computational magnetohydrodynamics (MHD). This position is funded by an STFC Small Award and will be supervised by Professor Tamara Rogers.

The role will focus on running and analysing three dimensional (3D) magnetohydrodynamics (MHD) simulations of core convecting stars to understand the role magnetism plays in chemical mixing and angular momentum transport within stars and how magnetism affects both standing and propagating internal gravity waves. The successful candidate will work as part of a team of both computational fluid dynamicists and stellar astrophysicists (observational and theoretical). Applications are encouraged particularly from those with experience in numerical simulations, fluid dynamics and/or stellar astrophysics.

The Person

Knowledge, Skills and Experience

• Excellent technical skills in computational fluid dynamics and/or stellar modelling that can be applied to the aims of the project described under ‘The role’;
• A track record of high-quality research outputs related to the goals of the project, commensurate with career stage (e.g., peer-reviewed publications, conference presentations, open-source software, etc.);
• Advanced programming skills in at least one programming language;
• Excellent written and oral communication skills;
• Demonstrable knowledge of stellar astrophysics;
• A track record of presenting research at conferences, symposia, or meetings, commensurate with career stage.

Desirable

• Advanced programming skills in Fortran and Python and experience with High Performance Computing;
• Demonstrable experience in image data analysis that can be applied to the aims of the project as described under ‘The role’.

Attributes and Behaviour

• Demonstrable ability to work independently using own initiative and to meet deadlines;
• Demonstrable ability to work cooperatively as part of a team, including participating in research meetings and working on joint research projects;
• A high level of analytical, numerical and problem-solving capability;
• A commitment to the values of equality, diversity and inclusion in all aspects of your work;
• Ability to set own research goals, and to be self-motivated and proactive;
• Proficient time management skills.

Desirable

• Demonstrable commitment to promoting a positive and healthy research culture (e.g., by actively supporting/mentoring students, supporting initiatives to improve the work environment etc.);
• An interest in student supervision (postgraduates and undergraduates).

Qualifications

Essential for Research Assistant Position

• Studying for a PhD in Astrophysics or a closely related discipline (or exceptionally equivalent professional experience).

Essential for Research Associate Position

• PhD awarded in Astrophysics or a closely related discipline (or exceptionally equivalent professional experience).

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