Postdoctoral Researcher in Machine Learning for Exoplanet Atmospheric Modelling in Milton Keynes

The Open University is the UK’s largest university, a world leader in flexible part-time education combining a mission to widen access to higher education with research excellence, transforming lives through education.

About the Role

The School of Physical Sciences at the Open University, UK, invites applications for a 3-year fixed-term postdoctoral researcher in machine learning for exoplanet atmosphere modelling. The postdoctoral researcher will work with Dr Joanna Barstow and Dr Hugh Dickinson as part of the STFC-funded research project "Rainbow Connection: Exoplanet Cloud Scattering Via Neural Networks". The role will involve developing a neural network-based emulator for Mie scattering calculations, integrating the emulator into the NemesisPy atmospheric model, and applying this to observational data from the James Webb Space Telescope to constrain hot Jupiter cloud composition.

Key Responsibilities

• Developing, training and testing a neural network Mie scattering emulator.
• Using existing Mie scattering routines to construct training and test data sets.
• Modelling exoplanet transmission spectra and comparing to observational data; duties may also include writing telescope proposals to obtain further data.
• Leading scientific publications related to the research outcomes.
• Working with, and providing day to day support to, PhD students in exoplanet atmospheres.
• Disseminating the research at major national and international conferences.
• Developing their own independence by leading observing proposals, and leading and/or co‑ordinating work within international teams.

About You

Essential:

• PhD in Astronomy, Astrophysics or a related field.
• Experience in modelling exoplanet atmospheres OR experience in applying machine learning techniques, especially neural networks, to astrophysical data.
• A developing track record of peer‑reviewed publications in international journals.
• Experience of Python programming for scientific data processing and analysis.
• Time management and project planning skills.
• The ability to present your research effectively both orally and in scientific writing.
• The ability to work both independently and as part of a diverse team.

Desirable:

• Experience in spectral retrieval of exoplanet atmospheres.
• Experience working with JWST observations of exoplanets.

What’s in it for you?

At The Open University, we offer a range of benefits to recognise and reward great work, alongside policies and flexible working that contribute towards a great work‑life balance.

Flexible working: We are open to discussions about flexible working. Whether it’s a job share, part time, compressed hours or another working arrangement, please reach out to discuss what works best for you.

Work location: It is anticipated that a hybrid working pattern can be adopted for this role, where the successful candidate can work from home and the office. As this role is contractually aligned to our Milton Keynes office, some attendance in the office will be required when necessary and in response to business needs.

The Open University is committed to equality, diversity and inclusion which is reflected in our mission to be open to people, places, methods and ideas. We aim to foster a diverse and inclusive environment so that all in our OU community can reach their potential. We recognise that different people bring different perspectives, ideas, knowledge, and culture, and that this difference brings great strength. We strive to recruit, retain and develop the careers of a diverse pool of students and staff, and particularly encourage applications from all underrepresented groups.