Postdoctoral Research Associate Associate in the Institute for Computational Cosmology and Centre f in North East

Overview

This post is a fixed‑term (12 months) research associate role based at the Institute for Computational Cosmology, Durham University. The appointee will work on the analysis and interpretation of data from cosmological hydrodynamics simulations of galaxy formation, particularly from the COLIBRE project, while also contributing to the development of the COLIBRE code and to the wider research portfolio. The role is carried out both independently and in collaboration with other members of the Institute, and operates under the direction of a Principal Investigator or Grant holder. A competitive salary, pension scheme and other benefits are offered by Durham University.

Responsibilities

• To understand and convey material of a specialist or highly technical nature to the team or group of people through presentations and discussions that leads to the presentation of research papers in conferences and publications.
• To prepare and deliver presentations on research outputs/activities to audiences which may include research sponsors, academic and non‑academic audiences.
• To publish high quality outputs, including papers for submission to peer‑reviewed journals and papers for presentation at conferences and workshops under the direction of the Principal Investigator or Grant holder.
• To assist with the development of research objectives and proposals.
• To conduct individual and collaborative research projects under the direction of the Principal Investigator or Grant holder.
• To work with the Principal Investigator or Grant holder and other colleagues in the research group, as appropriate, to identify areas for research, develop new research methods and extend the research portfolio.
• To deal with problems that may affect the achievement of research objectives and deadlines by discussing with the Principal Investigator or Grant holder and offering creative or innovative solutions.
• To liaise with research colleagues and make internal and external contacts to develop knowledge and understanding to form relationships for future research collaboration.
• To plan and manage own research activity, research resources in collaboration with others and contribute to the planning of research projects.
• To deliver training in research techniques/approaches to peers, visitors and students as appropriate.
• To be involved in student supervision, as appropriate, and assist with the assessment of the knowledge of students.
• To contribute to fostering a collegial working environment which is inclusive and welcoming and where everyone is treated fairly with dignity and respect.
• To engage in citizenship to support the department and wider discipline.
• To engage in continuing professional development by participation in the undergraduate or postgraduate teaching programmes or by membership of departmental committees, etc. and by attending relevant training and development courses.
• To communicate and collaborate with the industrial collaborators.
• Analysis and interpretation of data from cosmological hydrodynamics simulations of galaxy formation, particularly from the COLIBRE project.
• Develop software for the analysis of simulation data.
• Contribute to further developments of the COLIBRE code.

Qualifications

• A good first degree in astrophysics, cosmology, or a related subject.
• A PhD (or be close to submission) in astrophysics, cosmology, or a related subject.
• Strong publication record in peer‑reviewed journals, commensurate with stage of career.
• Experience in conducting high‑quality academic research in the area of extragalactic astronomy and/or cosmology using observational and/or theoretical/computational techniques.

Experience

• A track record of presenting research at conferences, symposia or meetings, commensurate with stage of career.
• Expertise in the analysis and interpretation of data from cosmological hydrodynamics simulations of galaxy formation.
• Expertise in properties of the intergalactic medium in cosmological simulations and demonstrated ability to work cooperatively as part of a team, including participating in research meetings.
• Ability to work independently on own initiative and to meet strict deadlines.
• Excellent interpersonal and communication skills.

Skills

• Demonstrable ability to plan and manage independent research.
• Demonstrable ability to develop research proposals and designs in collaboration with other academics.
• Experience of overseeing students with respect to the development of their practical/research skills.

Application Process

Next Steps:

• A CV and cover letter detailing your experience, skills, and achievements in meeting (or the potential to meet) the criteria set out below.
• A statement of research interests (no more than 3 pages).
• A CV and publication list.
• A statement on your experience with, or commitment towards, mentoring, equality, and inclusivity (about 0.5 pages).

Equality, Diversity and Inclusion

Durham University is committed to equality diversity, inclusion and values. Our collective aim is to create an open and inclusive environment where everyone can reach their full potential and we believe our staff should reflect the diversity of the global community in which we work. We also live by our values and our Staff Code of Conduct. At Durham we actively work towards providing an environment where our staff and students can study, work and live in a community which is supportive and inclusive. It is important to us that all of our colleagues are aligned to both our values and commitment to EDI. We welcome and encourage applications from members of groups who are under‑represented in our workforce, including people with disabilities, women and black, Asian and minority ethnic communities. If you have taken time out of your career, and you feel it relevant, let us know about it in your application. If you are a candidate with a disability, we are committed to ensuring fair treatment throughout the recruitment process. We will make adjustments to support the interview process wherever it is reasonable to do so and, where successful, reasonable adjustments will be made to support people within their role.