Postdoctoral Research Associate

Combine your passions for research and innovation in the field of computational astrophysics, with application to the Sun and beyond.

Our vision to become a world-leading university for our regions will take passion and perseverance. We can’t do it without you.

We are looking for people to join our university – to bring their exceptional teaching to our region, and to take their research impact to the world with us.

As one of the top 200 universities in the world and number one university in the world for partnering for a sustainable future, we are proud educators grounded by the needs of our community. We are driven by our inclusive focus and are proud of our five-star rating for social equity.

Be part of something bigger

This position will provide the opportunity to work in computational astrophysics, with particular application to the Sun and solar wind, alongside Associate Professor David Pontin. The project is funded by the Australian Research Council through a grant on “Understanding the sources of the slow solar wind”, involving collaboration with colleagues at NASA Goddard Space Flight Center and Durham University. This will involve analysis of 3D magnetic field structures and designing and performing large-scale magnetohydrodynamic simulations of the Sun’s atmosphere.

The Role 

• Design, run and analyse computational simulations;
• Develop physical understanding of plasma dynamics at the origin of the solar wind;
• Participate in research projects and publish in high quality international journals;
• Analyse satellite data (or collaborate with colleagues who do this);
• Organise local seminars/conferences; and
• Build international presence and collaborations in a global research environment, including speaking at conferences.

This fixed-term position is full time until December 2024, with possibility of extension subject to funding, operational requirements, and performance, and will be located at the Callaghan Campus (Awabakal and Worimi land). 

The University of Newcastle is an equal opportunity employer committed to equity, diversity and social inclusion. Women and Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander candidates are particularly encouraged to apply.  

How will you become part of our community? 

Either a finishing PhD student or candidate with previous postdoc experience, you already have a background in space or astrophysics. Ideally, you will research solar physics, (space) plasma physics, astrophysics, applied mathematics or similar subjects.

• Demonstrated computational experience and theoretical skills.
• An interest in understanding the Sun’s atmosphere and the fundamental physical processes that occur there.
• Proven ability to work proactively and independently to achieve research outcomes.
• Confident communication skills and enjoy interacting as part of a team or workgroup.

How will we support you?

The remuneration for this position is from $91,350 + 17% superannuation.  

The University is committed to being a leader in family-friendly working environments.

For information on our employee benefits (such as flexible working, discounts in private health insurance and gym memberships and salary packaging) please visit: https://www.newcastle.edu.au/about-uon/jobs-at-uon/benefits-at-a-glance  

Let’s be part of something bigger together. 

Please visit here for a guide on how to apply for a role. 

If viewing this on a job board other than the University's please click ‘Apply’ to reach the University's website, where a copy of the Position Description can be accessed. Please download a copy before commencing your application.

Your application must include:

• A URL link to your University Academic Profile (or equivalent)
• A Cover Letter; outlining your interest in the role, including contact details for a minimum of three relevant referees.
• A statement addressing the Essential and Desirable Criteria, as provided in the Position Description attached below (4 pages max)
• Your CV, which should be a maximum of five pages and be succinct and discipline appropriate.

Please upload your Cover Letter and response to the requested Criteria as one PDF document.

For additional information on the position contact Associate Prof. David Pontin on 02 4055 3261 or via email David.pontin@newcastle.edu.au.

Having Difficulties? Please reach out to us: employment@newcastle.edu.au

Closing date: Monday, 12 June 2023 at 11.59pm AEST

We are excited to be Looking Ahead with you

#LI-SE1