The Department of Physics at the University of Helsinki, Faculty of Science is inviting applications for a postdoctoral fellowship position (or a university researcher position) in computational and theoretical astrophysics.

The successful applicant will join the Theoretical Extragalactic Research Group led by Professor Peter Johansson and is expected to develop their own independent research program within the confines of the research fields pursued by the group, including: cosmological simulations of early-type galaxy formation, modelling the accurate dynamics of supermassive black holes, the implementation of small-scale gas physics and black hole feedback, the calculation of the gravitational wave signal from binary supermassive black holes and/or the modelling of the formation and evolution of stellar clusters in galactic environments.

We are seeking both excellent recent graduates and candidates with prior postdoctoral experience. A solid knowledge of theoretical astrophysics and a background in numerical astrophysics and/or gravitational wave astrophysics are required. The research group actively collaborates with researchers in Germany, the United Kingdom and the United States and the position will include ample funding for travel together with full access to the resources of the Finnish supercomputer centre.

Applicants should have a PhD in astronomy, astrophysics or a closely related field. The appointment will be for an initial period of two years with a possible extension for one year. The nominal starting date is expected to be September 2022, but earlier starting dates are also possible. University of Helsinki is the leading institute in Finland in astrophysics and cosmology with about 40 people working in this field. The University of Helsinki is an equal opportunity employer.

Applications should include a cover letter, CV, publication list, and a statement of research interests (max. 3 pages) in one single pdf file. This should include a summary of past research achievements and a statement of future plans. Please submit your application through the University of Helsinki recruitment system via the link Apply for the position. Applicants who are currently employed by the University of Helsinki are requested to submit their application via the SAP Fiori portal at https://msap.helsinki.fi by 30th November 2021. The applicants should also arrange for three letters of recommendation to be sent to Professor Peter Johansson, peter.johansson(at)helsinki.fi.

For more information about the research group, see https://www.mv.helsinki.fi/home/phjohans.
Informal enquiries to Prof. Peter Johansson are most welcome (Peter.Johansson@helsinki.fi).

Due date

30.11.2021 23:59 EET