Job Description:

The School of Mathematics & Physics at Queen’s University Belfast, is currently seeking to appoint an exceptional candidate as postdoctoral researcher to work on the development and application of numerical radiative transfer simulations for the study of supernovae.   

This will involve development work and carrying out simulations with our Monte Carlo radiative transfer codes (in collaboration with Dr. Stuart Sim) and working with Dr. Connor Ballance on incorporating the latest state-of-the-art atomic data into our models. The role will also involve collaboration (both internal and external to QUB) with supernovae observers and experts in hydrodynamical explosion modelling.  

The successful candidate must have, and your application should clearly demonstrate you have:

• A PhD in astronomy or astrophysics, or evidence that you are about to obtain one.
• At least 3 years’ relevant research experience in the following areas.
  • Radiative transfer simulations, including Monte Carlo methods;
  • Numerical simulation for astrophysics; and
  • Supernova spectral/light curve modelling, and interpretation of observational data.
• A strong publication record commensurate with stage of career.  

The above are not an exhaustive list.  For further information about the role including further essential and desirable criteria, please click on the Candidate Information link below.  

Please note that you are also required to submit your full CV, including publication list and relevant cover letter, and a two-page research statement that evidences how your experience meets the criteria of the post. Please be advised that the above must be collated into one file for uploading.  

This is a fixed term post available until 31 March 2026.  Fixed term contract posts are available for the stated period in the first instance but in particular circumstances may be renewed or made permanent subject to availability of funding.  

At Queen’s our people are at the heart of everything we do. As a staff member you will become part of a vibrant organisational culture, which will provide you with the opportunity to achieve your full potential and enhance your career through a continuous focus on learning and development.   

We offer an excellent employment package that includes:

• Great terms & conditions
• Pension schemes
• Flexible working by enabling you to design your working week in collaboration with your manager through a blend of remote and office working
• Family-friendly initiatives
• Career development opportunities
• Support for health & mental wellbeing
• Generous holiday entitlement of 8.4 weeks a year (made up of 23 days annual leave, 10 closure days and 9 bank holidays)  

Queen’s University is committed to promoting equality of opportunity to all. We have created an inclusive culture by establishing staff networks such as iRise (Black, Asian, Minority Ethnic and International Staff Network) and PRISM (LGBTQ+) which help us progress equality.   

We also subscribe to Equality Charter Marks such as the Diversity Charter Mark NI in addition to Athena Swan. For further information on our commitment to Equality, Diversity and Inclusion, please visit: www.qub.ac.uk/diversity; www.qub.ac.uk/qgi and www.qub.ac.uk/sites/StaffGateway/StaffNetworks/  

Informal enquiries may be directed to Dr Stuart Sim (s.sim@qub.ac.uk).  

Candidate Information
Attractive Reward Package
About the Astrophysics Research Centre
Further information for international applicants