Research Associate in Astrophysics

International Centre for Radio Astronomy Research (ICRAR)

• Prestigious fellowship to work on galaxy formation modelling to support science with the Square Kilometre Array (SKA)
• Level A, full-time appointment on a fixed term basis for 3 years
• Base salary range: $74,236 – $99,905 p.a. plus 17% superannuation

The University of Western Australia (UWA) is ranked among the top 100 universities in the world and a member of the prestigious Australian Group of Eight research intensive universities. With a strong research track record, vibrant campus and working environments, supported by the freedom to innovate and inspire, there is no better time to join Western Australia’s top university.

About the team

ICRAR is a WA State funded high profile equal joint venture established in 2009 between Curtin University and The University of Western Australia (UWA). The Centre’s headquarters are located at UWA, with research nodes at both UWA and Curtin. ICRAR has been funded with $25 Million by the WA State Government and $35 Million contribution from the Joint Venture Universities till 2024.

ICRAR is one of the largest astronomy institutions and one of the lead Australian organisations participating in the international Square Kilometre Array (SKA) Project. ICRAR has secured multimillion dollar contracts to participate in the SKA software development, SKA-Low power and signal distribution system and SKA-MID phase synchronisation system for the SKA construction period until 2028.

This position will be based at the ICRAR headquarters at the beautiful Matilda Bay campus of UWA, Nedlands in Perth, Western Australia. Perth is listed as one of the world's most liveable cities and offers an excellent ocean-side lifestyle.

About the opportunity

ICRAR is looking for a highly motivated scientist to join the Cosmological Theory group as part of the prestigious Jim Buckee Fellowship scheme in Astrophysics. You will contribute to an independent research program aimed at undertaking research in supercomputer modelling of the formation and evolution of galaxies in the cosmic web. You will be making predictions that can be directly tested with next generation radio telescopes such as the SKA and its precursors/pathfinders.

You will play a key role in carrying out an independent and innovative research programme using galaxy formation modelling in cosmological simulations on state-of-the-art supercomputers to make predictions that can be tested using observational data from the SKA pathfinders, such as ASKAP, and the ultimately the SKA itself.

About you 

The project will require expertise in theoretical and computational astrophysics, statistical analysis, and high-performance computing. You must hold a PhD in theoretical / computational astrophysics or related discipline.

To be considered for this role, you will demonstrate:

• PhD in theoretical/computational astrophysics or related discipline
• Excellent knowledge of, and demonstrated ability to work with, cosmological hydrodynamical
• Excellent computing and data management skills
• Experience in high performance computing
• Strong publication record evidenced by international refereed publications
• Ability to participate effectively in distributed scientific collaborations
• Ability to contribute to outreach and/or educational programmes

Note: this position will require occasional overseas travel and meetings after hours due to the project activities and collaborators located globally.

About your application

Full details of the position's responsibilities and the selection criteria are outlined in the position description:  PD - Research Associate Jim Buckee Fellowship 51363037 .pdf

Applicants are required to submit a current CV; the names and contact details of two referees; a 1-page description of your past research achievements; and a 2-page proposal that specifically outlines your proposed 3-year research programme.

Closing date: 11:55 PM AWST on Friday, 31 March 2023

To learn more about this opportunity, please contact Professor Chris Power at chris.power@uwa.edu.au

This position is open to international applicants.

Application Details: Please apply online via the Apply Now button.

Our commitment to inclusion and diversity

UWA is committed to a diverse workforce and an equitable and inclusive workplace.  We celebrate difference and believe diversity is fundamental to achieving our goals as a globally recognised Top 100 educational and research institution.  We are committed to creating a safe work environment for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people, women, people from culturally and linguistically diverse backgrounds, the LGBTIQA+ community and people living with disability.

• We have a globally competitive, gender neutral parental leave policy with 26 weeks paid leave after 12 months service and 36 weeks after 5 years.
• We have on-campus childcare facilities for children aged 6 weeks to kindy.
• We facilitate flexible working, with part-time and job-sharing arrangements considered.
• We have an ongoing partnership with Pride in Diversity and were recently awarded a Bronze Employer status for LGBTIQA+ inclusion.
• We have Athena SWAN Bronze accreditation and actively work to improve gender equity. 

Should you have any queries relating to your application, please contact the individual named in the advertisement. Alternatively, contact the Talent team at talent-hr@uwa.edu.au with details of your query. To enable a quick response, please include the 6-digit job reference number and a member of the team will respond to your enquiry.