Research support position in observational time-domain astronomy Ref. RN002256250422

We invite applications for a 1-year position as a pre-doctoral support researcher in time-domain astronomy at the Institute of Cosmos Sciences at the University of Barcelona (ICCUB), Spain.  The successful candidate will join the research group led by Dr. Nadejda Blagorodnova as part of the ERC-funded project CET-3PO.

The group’s research focuses on the study of the common envelope phase in massive binaries via observations of luminous red novae (LRNe) transients. As a member of the research group, the successful candidate will perform tasks of support with observations, development of data reduction pipelines, data reduction tasks for photometry and spectroscopy, and additional multi-wavelength analysis using archival catalogues for the transients of interest.

An MSc in astronomy or related field is required. Positions can start as early as June 2023, but no later than October 2023. The remuneration includes full benefits, and limited research and travel allowance.

The application should be in English, and must include the following:  

• CV
• Master’s degree certification.
• A motivation letter where you introduce yourself, describe your motivation for applying, your previous experience of relevance for the position (e.g. education, thesis work or other research activities), and your research interest and future goals (max 3 pages).
• The contact details of 2 references, who will be contacted by the selection committee for shortlisted applicants.

We regard diversity as an asset within a team, and welcome applicants with diverse backgrounds and experiences.

The ICCUB is an interdisciplinary centre hosting a vibrant fundamental research program in cosmology, astrophysics and particle physics, with a strong technology unit supporting our participation in international collaborations in observational astronomy and experimental particle physics.

The ICCUB is located in Barcelona: one with near-perfect weather year-round, miles and miles of beaches, iconic parks, striking architecture and colourful neighbourhoods that march to their own beat—artistic, sophisticated, bohemian. Moreover, it is a pole of attraction for the technology sector, a top choice to establish a company in this sector, and it hosts some of the world's major technological events, such as the Mobile World Congress and the Smart City Expo. In addition, Barcelona and its metropolitan area is a leading destination on the map of global technological ecosystems and has infrastructures such as science parks, universities and the 22@ district.

Gross salary per year*

18.843€