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- Tasks: Join a team to develop a spectroscopic alert stream for groundbreaking time-domain astronomy.
- Company: ESO, a leading astronomical organisation driving innovative research.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, research funding, and opportunities for collaboration with top scientists.
- Why this job: Make significant contributions to time-domain science and explore the universe's mysteries.
- Qualifications: PhD in astronomy or related field, with experience in time-domain science.
- Other info: One-year position with potential for impactful discoveries in cosmology.
The predicted salary is between 36000 - 60000 £ per year.
ESO astronomers are participating in the design of a new facility, the Wide-field Spectroscopic Telescope (WST), an innovative 12-m class wide-field spectroscopic telescope with simultaneous operation of a large field-of-view (3 sq. degree) and high multiplex (30,000) multi-object spectrograph facility with both medium and high resolution modes (MOS), and a giant panoramic (3x3 sq. arcmin) integral field spectrograph (IFS). The WST project is a research and innovation action funded by the EU's Horizon Europe programme (under agreement number 101183153 (WST)).
Under this agreement, ESO is offering a postdoctoral researcher the opportunity to work on time-domain science with WST. Time-domain astronomy is a key component of WST's science drivers, and thus, it is being built into WST from the start. This includes the generation and ingestion of a spectroscopic alert stream, which aims to report on spectral changes, like variations in emission or absorption lines or changes in the continuum, among others.
The development of this alert stream will be conducted in the context of the WST time-domain working group (led by Richard Anderson - EPFL, Cyrielle Opitom - University of Edinburgh, and Paula Sanchez Saez - ESO), whose aim is to maximize the information offered by WST time-resolved observations, enabling breakthrough science across all scales, from Solar System Objects to Cosmology, and offering a major opportunity for serendipitous discoveries.
In this context, the postdoctoral fellow will work for one year on the definition and characterization of the WST spectroscopic alert stream.
Postdoctoral Fellow - Time-domain science with WST in Edinburgh employer: Big Science Sweden
Contact Detail:
Big Science Sweden Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Postdoctoral Fellow - Time-domain science with WST in Edinburgh
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to current and former postdocs in your field, especially those involved with time-domain science. A friendly chat can open doors and give you insights that might just set you apart.
✨Tip Number 2
Show off your passion! When you get the chance to interview, make sure to express your enthusiasm for the WST project and time-domain astronomy. Let them know why this role excites you and how you can contribute to their groundbreaking work.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare for technical questions! Brush up on your knowledge of spectroscopic techniques and time-domain analysis. Being able to discuss these topics confidently will show that you're ready to dive into the research right away.
✨Tip Number 4
Apply through our website! We want to see your application come through our platform. It’s the best way to ensure it gets the attention it deserves, and we’re here to support you every step of the way.
We think you need these skills to ace Postdoctoral Fellow - Time-domain science with WST in Edinburgh
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your Application: Make sure to customise your application to highlight how your skills and experiences align with the WST project. We want to see your passion for time-domain science and how you can contribute to our innovative telescope.
Showcase Relevant Experience: Don’t hold back on sharing your previous research or projects related to time-domain astronomy. We love seeing how your background fits into the exciting work we’re doing at StudySmarter, especially in the context of the WST.
Be Clear and Concise: Keep your writing clear and to the point. We appreciate well-structured applications that are easy to read. Make sure to communicate your ideas effectively, as this reflects your ability to convey complex scientific concepts.
Apply Through Our Website: Remember to submit your application through our website! It’s the best way for us to receive your materials and ensures you’re considered for the position. We can’t wait to see what you bring to the table!
How to prepare for a job interview at Big Science Sweden
✨Know Your Stuff
Make sure you’re well-versed in time-domain astronomy and the specifics of the WST project. Brush up on recent advancements and be ready to discuss how your research aligns with the goals of the WST, especially regarding the spectroscopic alert stream.
✨Show Your Passion
Let your enthusiasm for astronomy and the WST project shine through. Share personal anecdotes or experiences that sparked your interest in time-domain science. This will help you connect with the interviewers and demonstrate your commitment to the field.
✨Prepare Thoughtful Questions
Have a list of insightful questions ready about the WST project and the team dynamics. Asking about the challenges they face or the future direction of the project shows that you’re genuinely interested and engaged.
✨Practice Your Presentation Skills
You might need to present your previous work or ideas during the interview. Practise explaining complex concepts clearly and concisely. Use visuals if possible, as they can help convey your points more effectively and keep the interviewers engaged.
