Tenure Track Assistant Professor on Astronomical Data Science and Machine Learning

The Kapteyn Astronomical Institute invites applications for the position of Assistant Professor, with a clear focus on the development and application of astronomical data science and machine learning methods within both the observational and theoretical astronomical research domains. Candidates should demonstrate a clear track record, including peer-reviewed publications, in developing broadly applicable state-of-the-art data science and machine-learning tools for astronomical data sets, simulations and/or modelling.

We also seek a candidate eager to exploit data from existing and future astronomical instruments and facilities with the involvement of research staff at the Kapteyn Astronomical Institute, including datasets from advanced numerical simulations. The successful candidate is expected to contribute to the Institute's current research areas, fostering collaborations within the Kapteyn Astronomical Institute, across NOVA institutes, ASTRON, SRON, and with Computer Science at the University of Groningen and elsewhere. The candidate is expected to develop courses and teach astronomical computing, data science, and machine learning methods to students at the institute and the Faculty of Science and Engineering.

We are offering a full-time position within our faculty's Career Paths in Science and Engineering system, providing an excellent pathway for career development. We offer the opportunity for a permanent appointment (tenure) within one to three years, with the potential to advance to Full Professor within approximately ten years. This system is designed to support your professional growth and long-term career prospects within our institution.

As Assistant Professor, you will

• Set up and develop your own research line and research group.
• Teach bachelor and master courses to students in the faculty of science and engineering.
• Contribute to the development of degree programs in Astronomy.
• Supervise PhD students and postdocs.
• Acquire external funding.
• Promote the societal relevance of your research.
• Contribute to the organisation of the institute and faculty.

At the Assistant Professor level, 60% of your time is spent on research, 30% on teaching activities, and 10% on organisational tasks.

We seek candidates with the following characteristics

• A PhD degree in Computer Science, Astronomy/Astrophysics, Physics or related fields.
• Excellent research qualities, as shown by a publication record in international peer-reviewed journals and proceedings of renowned conferences.
• A proven track record in developing and applying novel data-science methods applied to astronomical observations and/or simulations.
• A great affinity with and a good track record in teaching, appropriate for the career stage.
• At least two years of postdoctoral experience outside of the Netherlands, preferably in a different country than where you received your PhD.
• A relevant international research network.
• The potential to acquire substantial research grants from external sources.
• Demonstrable communicative and organisational competencies.
• The ambition and the potential to develop academically.
• The ability to work well with others in international and diverse teams.
• Good command of spoken and written English.

Furthermore, we expect all new staff members to either have a University Teaching Qualification (Dutch: “Basiskwalificatie Onderwijs”) or obtain it within three years and – if they do not already speak it – to learn the Dutch language within at most five years.