Jul 25 2017
Deadline for applications: 15 November 2017
Starting Date: preferably before 2018
The Strasbourg Astronomical Data Centre (Centre de Données astronomiques de Strasbourg, CDS), within the Strasbourg Observatory, is opening a postdoctoral position (1 year, renewable) to work within the CDS on the ASTERICS project.
The CDS is dedicated to the collection and distribution of astronomical data and information, and the development of innovative techniques for scientific exploitation of very large data sets. The CDS provides the SIMBAD reference database; the VizieR service for astronomical catalogues and tables published in academic journals; the Aladin interactive sky atlas and a new integrated portal. The CDS contributes to the Virtual Observatory and recent developments include the use of hierarchical data techniques and fast catalogue cross-matching. (For more information see http://cds.unistra.fr)
The CDS is participating in the Astronomy ESFRI and Research Infrastructure Cluster ASTERICS which is a Research Infrastructure project funded by the European Commission’s Horizon 2020 framework to address the cross-cutting synergies and common challenges shared by the various Astronomy ESFRI facilities, pathfinder facilities and other large infrastructures (SKA, CTA, KM3NeT, E-ELT, VIRGO/EGO). CDS leads the ASTERICS work package on Data Access Discovery and Interoperability. (For more information see https://www.asterics2020.eu)
The successful applicant will work within the CDS team on scientific interoperability of astronomical data and services, and will contribute to the development and presentation of science tutorials to support ASTERICS training events. The work will involve interactions with technical and scientific staff at the CDS and within the ASTERICS partners.
Applicants must possess a Ph.D in astronomy and have experience with analysis of astronomical data. Experience in multi-wavelength or multi-messenger astronomy or statistical analysis of large data sets would be beneficial. The position includes opportunities for collaboration with members of the CDS science team. Scientific topics covered by the team include stellar astrophysics (AGB stars, YSOs, stellar X-ray emission), interstellar medium, dust emission in nearby galaxies, galaxy dynamics, interactions of galaxies in clusters, shocks and photoionisation in AGN and interacting galaxies, galaxy formation and numerical simulations of reionization.
Applicants are requested to submit a CV, cover letter, a statement of research interests, and the names of two professional references to Dr. Mark Allen (mark.allen@astro.unistra.fr) by 15 November 2017 (extended deadline). Documents should be sent as PDF files via email with the subject line CDS-ASTERICS-POSTDOC.
The starting date is flexible but should be before March 2018.
The CDS participates in the ASTERICS project as a CNRS partner and the salary and benefits are set by CNRS guidelines.