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- Tasks: Join a team to develop data processing pipelines for the SKA Radio Telescopes.
- Company: Be part of the prestigious University of Cambridge's Cavendish Astrophysics Group.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, collaborative environment, and opportunities for independent research.
- Why this job: Make a real impact in astrophysics while working with cutting-edge technology.
- Qualifications: PhD in relevant field or close to completion; strong programming skills required.
- Other info: Dynamic role with international collaboration and excellent career growth potential.
The predicted salary is between 37694 - 46049 £ per year.
Overview
Research Associate in Data Processing Pipelines for the SKA Radio Telescopes (Fixed Term)
Fixed-term: The funds for this post are available until 30 November 2027 in the first instance. The position is in the Cavendish Astrophysics Group, Department of Physics, University of Cambridge, funded by the STFC Square Kilometre Array (SKA) Construction Project. The successful candidate will join the Cambridge SKA team working on data processing, software development, and system integration for the SKA Science Data Processor (SDP).
The role involves contributing to the development and implementation of data processing pipelines that transform raw telescope data into science-ready products. This includes developing and testing software for data ingestion, calibration, imaging, and quality control. The post holder will also help support the integration of these pipelines into the wider SKA software ecosystem, collaborating closely with international partners and industry as part of the SAFe Agile Release Train (ART) framework.
Responsibilities
- Develop and implement data processing pipelines that transform raw telescope data into science-ready products.
- Develop and test software for data ingestion, calibration, imaging, and quality control.
- Support integration of pipelines into the wider SKA software ecosystem.
- Collaborate with international partners and industry within the SAFe Agile Release Train (ART) framework.
- Work within a collaborative team environment, contributing to software delivery milestones and participating in regular agile development cycles.
- Allocate up to 20% of time for independent research related to SKA Key Science Projects (e.g., 21-cm cosmology).
Qualifications
- A PhD in astrophysics, radio astronomy, physics, computer science, or a related field (or close to completion).
- Strong background in scientific programming (Python, C/C++) and experience with software development for data-intensive systems.
- Familiarity with radio astronomy, aperture synthesis, or high-performance computing is advantageous.
Education and Experience
Based at the Cavendish Laboratory, JJ Thomson Avenue, Cambridge CB3 0US, under the supervision of Professor Eloy de Lera Acedo.
Salary
- Research Associate: £37,694 – £46,049 (Grade 7)
- Research Assistant (if PhD not yet awarded): £34,610 (Grade 5)
Application Process
Click the Apply button to register an account and apply online. Upload your Curriculum Vitae (CV) and a covering letter in the online application. If you upload additional documents that have not been requested, they may not be considered. Please submit your application by midnight on the closing date.
For questions about this vacancy, please contact Prof. Eloy de Lera Acedo (ed330@cam.ac.uk). For questions about the application process, please contact hr@phy.cam.ac.uk.
Please quote reference KA47709 on your application and in any correspondence about this vacancy.
Equality and Eligibility
The University actively supports equality, diversity and inclusion and encourages applications from all sections of society. The University has a responsibility to ensure that all employees are eligible to live and work in the UK.
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Research Associate in Data Processing Pipelines for the SKA Radio Telescopes (Fixed Term) employer: Minderoo Centre for Technology and Democracy
Contact Detail:
Minderoo Centre for Technology and Democracy Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Research Associate in Data Processing Pipelines for the SKA Radio Telescopes (Fixed Term)
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to current or former employees at the University of Cambridge, especially those in the Cavendish Astrophysics Group. A friendly chat can give us insights into the team culture and maybe even a referral!
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for the interview by brushing up on your technical skills. Since this role involves data processing pipelines, make sure we can discuss our experience with Python and C/C++. Practice explaining complex concepts in simple terms – it shows we know our stuff!
✨Tip Number 3
Show off our collaborative spirit! This position is all about teamwork within the SAFe Agile Release Train framework. Be ready to share examples of how we've successfully worked in teams before and contributed to software delivery milestones.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure our application gets seen. Plus, we can tailor our CV and cover letter to highlight our relevant experience in astrophysics and data-intensive systems.
We think you need these skills to ace Research Associate in Data Processing Pipelines for the SKA Radio Telescopes (Fixed Term)
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV is tailored to the role of Research Associate. Highlight your experience in scientific programming and any relevant projects you've worked on, especially those related to data processing or radio astronomy.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Your cover letter should tell us why you're the perfect fit for this position. Share your passion for astrophysics and how your skills align with the responsibilities outlined in the job description. Don't forget to mention any collaborative experiences!
Follow Application Guidelines: Stick to the application guidelines provided. Upload only the requested documents (CV and cover letter) and make sure to quote the reference number KA47709 in your application. This helps us keep track of your application easily!
Apply Through Our Website: We encourage you to apply through our website by clicking the Apply button. It’s the easiest way for us to receive your application and ensures you don’t miss out on any important updates regarding your application status.
How to prepare for a job interview at Minderoo Centre for Technology and Democracy
✨Know Your Stuff
Make sure you brush up on your knowledge of data processing pipelines and the specific technologies mentioned in the job description, like Python and C/C++. Being able to discuss your experience with scientific programming and how it relates to the SKA project will show that you're a strong candidate.
✨Show Your Collaborative Spirit
Since this role involves working closely with international partners and within an Agile framework, be prepared to talk about your teamwork experiences. Share examples of how you've successfully collaborated on projects, especially in a fast-paced environment.
✨Ask Smart Questions
Prepare thoughtful questions about the SKA project and the Cavendish Astrophysics Group. This shows your genuine interest in the role and helps you understand how you can contribute effectively. For instance, ask about the current challenges they face in data processing or how they envision the integration of new pipelines.
✨Highlight Your Research Interests
Since you'll have time allocated for independent research, mention any relevant projects or ideas you have related to SKA Key Science Projects. This not only demonstrates your initiative but also aligns with their goal of advancing scientific understanding through innovative research.
