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Applications are invited for a 3-year Post-Doctoral Research Associate position in observational astronomy within the Astronomy Group based at The University of Sheffield, UK. The successful applicant will work with Dr Steven Parsons to investigate magnetic white dwarfs in detached, eclipsing binary systems. The research will involve the reduction and analysis of VLT/X-shooter spectroscopic data and GTC/HiPERCAM and NTT/ULTRACAM high-speed photometric data for a large number of magnetic white dwarf binaries. You will be responsible for developing new methods for analysing these objects, with the aim of investigating the origin of magnetism in white dwarfs. You will also form part of the world leading research group on high time resolution science at Sheffield, with access to ULTRASPEC on the 2.4m TNT, ULTRACAM on the 3.5m NTT and HiPERCAM on the 10.4m GTC.

You will be expected to hold a PhD in astrophysics at the start of the appointment. Observational experience in the area of white dwarf binaries and magnetic white dwarfs is desirable as is experience in modelling eclipsing binary systems.

Main duties and responsibilities

• Carry out the analysis of spectroscopy and photometry of magnetic white dwarf binaries, and analyse the results to investigate the origin of magnetism in white dwarfs.
• Plan and conduct observational and/or theoretical research programmes related to the field of magnetic white dwarfs binaries.
• Contribute to papers for publication in leading peer-reviewed scientific journals.
• Attend national/international conferences and meetings to present the results of the research undertaken and disseminate research findings.
• Write supporting documents to contribute to and support the work of the Astrophysics Research Cluster. For example, reports, interim reports and grant applications
• Participate in the research culture of the Astrophysics Research Cluster; organiser of research group seminars
• Organise time to ensure very good knowledge of the background of the area of research, maintaining up-to-date knowledge of relevant literature.
• Be capable of planning your own research activities in discussion with your line manager, incorporating issues such as the availability of resources, deadlines, project milestones and overall research aims.
• As a member of staff you will be encouraged to make ethical decisions in your role, embedding the University sustainability strategy into your working activities wherever possible.
• Carry out other duties, commensurate with the grade and remit of the post

Person Specification

Our diverse community of staff and students recognises the unique abilities, backgrounds, and beliefs of all. We foster a culture where everyone feels they belong and is respected. Even if your past experience doesn't match perfectly with this role's criteria, your contribution is valuable, and we encourage you to apply. Please ensure that you reference the application criteria in the application statement when you apply.

Essential criteria

• A PhD in astrophysics or a related discipline (or equivalent experience) (assessed at: application/interview)
• Effective communication skills, both written and verbal, including the ability to write reports and experience in delivering presentations (assessed at: application/interview)
• Ability to disseminate results via scientific journals and at meetings/conferences.  (assessed at: application/interview)
• Ability to work effectively within a research group, while pursuing individual research  (assessed at: application/interview).
• Ability to work independently and meet deadlines (assessed at: application/interview)
• Ability to keep up to date with the research literature associated with the project (assessed at: application/interview)
• Ability to assess and organise resources, and plan and progress work activities (assessed at: application/interview)

Desirable criteria

• Experience of optical spectroscopic and high-speed photometric observations and their reduction (assessed at: application/interview)
• Experience modelling the spectra and light curves of eclipsing binary systems, particularly those containing white dwarfs  (assessed at: application/interview)
• A good track record of published research (assessed at: application/interview)
• Experience of developing and maintaining a network of contacts throughout own work area (assessed at: application/interview)
• Ability to develop creative approaches to problem solving (assessed at: application/interview)

Further Information

Grade: 7

Salary: £38,249 - £46,735 per annum

Work arrangement: Full-time

Duration: 01.07.2025 to 30.06.2028

Line manager: Lecturer in Astrophysics

Direct reports: N/A

Our website: https://www.sheffield.ac.uk/mps

For informal enquiries about this job contact
Dr Steven Parsons, Lecturer in Astrophysics: on s.g.parsons@sheffield.ac.uk

Next steps in the recruitment process

It is anticipated that the selection process will take place on the week commencing DATE. This will consist of an interview and presentation. We plan to let candidates know if they have progressed to the selection stage on the week commencing DATE. If you need any support, equipment or adjustments to enable you to participate in any element of the recruitment process you can contact hicks-hr@sheffield.ac.uk.

Our vision and strategic plan

We are the University of Sheffield. This is our vision: sheffield.ac.uk/vision (opens in new window).
 

What we offer

• A minimum of 41 days annual leave including bank holiday and closure days (pro rata) with the ability to purchase more.
• Flexible working opportunities, including hybrid working for some roles.
• Generous pension scheme.
• A wide range of discounts and rewards on shopping, eating out and travel.
• A variety of staff networks, providing opportunities for social interaction, peer support and personal development (for example, Race Equality, LGBT+, Women’s and Parent’s networks).
• Recognition Awards to reward staff who go above and beyond in their role.
• A commitment to your development access to learning and mentoring schemes
• A range of generous family-friendly policies
  • paid time off for parenting and caring emergencies
  • support for those going through the menopause
  • paid time off and support for fertility treatment
  • and more

More details can be found on our benefits page: sheffield.ac.uk/jobs/benefits (opens in a new window).

We are a Disability Confident Employer. If you have a disability and meet the essential criteria for this job you will be invited to take part in the next stage of the selection process.

We are a research university with a global reputation for excellence. Our ideas and expertise change the world for the better, making a real difference to society. We know that when people come together with different views, approaches and insights it can lead to richer, more creative and innovative teaching and research and the highest levels of student experience. Our University Vision (www.sheffield.ac.uk/vision) outlines our commitment to building a diverse community of staff and students that recognises and values the abilities, backgrounds, beliefs and ways of living for everyone.