Postdoctoral Research Associate in Exoplanet Science

About the Role 

We are seeking a Postdoctoral Research Associate in Exoplanet Science to join the new Macquarie Astrostatistics group.  You will be working with A/Prof Benjamin Pope and A/Prof Christian Schwab on a full-time, fixed term period for 3 years.

This role will develop and apply new machine-learning based approaches for extremely precise radial velocity studies and exoplanet spectroscopy with the NEID, HPF, and MARVEL facilities, and pursue related exoplanet and stellar science.

We are particularly seeking applicants with experience in:

• Radial velocity, stellar, and/or exoplanet spectroscopy studies; and/or astronomical instrumentation or observing programmes

• Machine learning in physical science, especially with transformer models

• Jax, PyTorch, and/or Julia; with probabilistic programming languages; or with high-dimensional optimization and inference in physics contexts.

Essential criteria

• A Doctorate in a relevant field such as Astrophysics, statistics, or applied mathematics, with a background in astronomy

• Experience in both statistics and/or astronomy

• The ability to clearly express your ideas and communicate in a team.

• The ability to work independently on problems and motivate junior members of the team.

We strongly encourage applications from women and gender diverse researchers, who remain underrepresented in the physical sciences and astronomy. We are committed to building a diverse and inclusive research environment where different perspectives, experiences and ideas are valued and supported.

About Us

The School of Mathematical and Physical Sciences is an inclusive community in scientific collaboration.  Mathematics and statistics drive breakthroughs in technology and data science, while physics and astronomy seek to understand matter and the Universe – everything from quarks to galaxy clusters.  We collaborate closely with local, national, and international organisations and companies across the diverse mathematical and physical sciences fields. Further information about our school is available here.

Why Join Us?

Macquarie is a university engaged with the real and often complex problems and opportunities that define our lives. Since our foundation over 60 years ago, we have aspired to be a different type of university. Over the years, we have grown to become the centre of a vibrant local and global community. Connect with us today.

We rank amongst the top employers in the Australian Workplace Employers Index, having recently earned a five-star rating in the QS World Rankings with the highest rating for employability. Take a look at the fabulous staff benefits on offer when you work at Macquarie University.

Pre-Employment Checks

Macquarie University/Health cultivates a workplace defined by safety, ethical conduct, and strong integrity.  Prior to completion of an offer of employment, preferred candidates will be required to participate in a combination of pre-employment checks relevant to the role they have applied for.

Your employment is conditional upon the completion and maintenance of all role-required pre-employment or background checks in terms satisfactory to the University/Health. 

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