Research Fellow, Observational Radio Astronomy

International Centre for Radio Astronomy Research (ICRAR)

Amazing opportunity for a passionate and driven researcher to join a rapidly growing research institute in Australia and contribute to the scientific exploitation of Square Kilometre Array precursor telescopes
Full time, fixed term 3 year appointment
Salary range: Level B: $102,983 to $121,864 p.a. plus employer contributed superannuation of 17%

The University of Western Australia (UWA) is ranked amongst the top 100 universities in the world and a member of the prestigious Australian Group of Eight research-intensive universities. With an enviable research track record, vibrant campus and working environment, supported by the freedom to ‘innovate and inspire’ there is no better time to join Western Australia’s top University.

About the team

ICRAR is a WA State funded high profile equal joint venture established in 2009 between Curtin University and The University of Western Australia (UWA). The Centre’s administrative headquarters are located at UWA, with research nodes at both UWA and Curtin. ICRAR is one of the lead Australian organisations participating in the international Square Kilometre Array (SKA) Project.

About the opportunity

We are looking for a highly motivated and suitably qualified candidate to join the science team at the International Centre for Radio Astronomy Research (ICRAR). You will work on aspects of observational radio astronomy which have strong connections with ongoing research activity at ICRAR which includes, but is not limited to, ASKAP neutral hydrogen surveys (namely WALLABY, DINGO, FLASH and GASKAP), radio continuum and polarisation surveys with ASKAP (namely, POSSUM and EMU) and MWA, and studies with other SKA pathfinder telescopes. The aim of the research will be to contribute to the understanding of the formation, evolution and interactions of galaxies, and the role of environment in their ongoing evolution.

Depending on your research interests, your research will either be self-driven, or will be team-driven. In either case, you will be expected to interact with other ICRAR national and international researchers who are experts in radio astronomy, multiwavelength and theoretical studies.

To be considered for this role, you will demonstrate:

PhD in a field relevant to radio astronomy
Experience in extragalactic or Galactic radio astronomy, attested by a good publication record
Excellent oral and written communication skills
Ability to work independently, show initiative and work productively as part of a team
Experience in the analysis of radio astronomy data
Experience with computer programming/scripting (e.g. python)
Experience with supercomputing environments would be an advantage

Full details of the position’s responsibilities and the selection criteria are outlined in the position description.

Why ICRAR at The University of Western Australia?

You will have access to a wide range of observational facilities (including ASKAP and other ATNF facilities, MWA, the AAT, and ESO), as well as to the Pawsey supercomputing centre.

You will be based at the ICRAR headquarters at the beautiful Matilda Bay campus of UWA. Perth is listed as one of the world’s most liveable cities and offers an excellent ocean-side lifestyle. Due to ongoing travel restrictions, ability to work in Western Australia is essential, so preference may be given to Australian/NZ citizens and residents.

You will be working at ICRAR which has been conferred with the Pleiades Gold Award of the Astronomical Society of Australia for “exceptional and sustained demonstration of equity in the workplace and an ongoing commitment to advancing diversity and inclusion in Astronomy at a national level”.

Closing date: Friday, 28 May 2021

This position is only open to applicants with relevant rights to work in Australia.

ICRAR supports equity, diversity and flexible work arrangements and actively encourage applications from female candidates.

The successful appointee will be required to relocate to Perth, Western Australia to commence in this position.

Application Details: Please apply online via the Apply Now button.

Applicants should clearly demonstrate that they meet the selection criteria.

Applications must include a cover letter, curriculum vitae, publication list, contact details of two referees and a statement of research interests [2 pages max.], including a short description of your proposed research project.

Our commitment to inclusion and diversity

UWA is committed to a diverse workforce. We celebrate inclusion and diversity and believe gender equity is fundamental to achieving our goal of being a top 50 university by 2050.

We have child friendly areas on campus, including childcare facilities. Flexible work arrangements, part-time hours and job sharing will all be considered.
UWA has been awarded Platinum Employer Status for being a Top Ten Employer for LGBTI Inclusion by the Australian Workplace Equity Index (AWEI -2019).
UWA has been awarded Athena Swan Bronze Accreditation in 2020.