Permanent position in the field of protoplanetary disks in the era of JWST and the ELT

The Astrophysics Department (DAp) at CEA Paris-Saclay, IRFU, invites applications for a permanent researcher position to begin before the end of 2025, in the field of protoplanetary disk formation and evolution, from the Class 0 to the Class II, in the context of JWST and the upcoming ELT capabilities. 

The Astrophysics Department - located 30 kms / 40 mins from Paris downtown - offers a dynamic environment, with about 200 researchers contributing to many fields of astrophysics from cosmology, galaxies, to stars and exoplanetary systems, and is also a leader in several international instrumental projects as well as large numerical simulations. Specifically, the star and planet formation team conducts state-of-the-art observations of star-forming regions and protoplanetary disks from infrared to radio wavelengths, and thrives to develop a synergetic approach with adaptive mesh refinement codes able to tackle the multi-scale nature and the relevant physical processes. In this context, we open a staff position at DAp to foster activities on infrared characterization of the early stages of disks, and take the lead on scientific exploitation of data towards disks with the ELT/METIS instrument.

The applicant is expected to conduct top-end research projects on the formation and evolution of protoplanetary disks, using the capabilities offered by new and upcoming infrared facilities, specifically the JWST and the ELT/METIS. Interpretation of the observations will be enriched by the synergy with physical models of star and planet formation, carried in-house. The Astrophysics Department is involved in the design, building and exploitation of the ELT/METIS instrument (first light 2030) and the applicant is expected to join and lead activities for the DAp in the scientific team of METIS. Significant experience in the analysis of infrared observations is expected, with an interest in carrying infrared observations of young disks. Though not mandatory, knowledge of observations of young stellar objects in other wavelength domains is also welcome, as well as experience in the comparison between observations and simulations. The candidate should hold a PhD degree in the field of astrophysics.