Job Advertisement: Expires 15th July 2008
PhD position in Astrophysics (Neutron star burst oscillations)
University of Amsterdam
We anticipate being able to offer a 4 year PhD position, to begin in
September 2008 or as soon as possible thereafter.
The project addresses a puzzling phenomenon observed during thermonuclear
explosions on accreting neutron stars. Some explosions generate a pronounced
brightness pattern on the star's surface, and detailed X-ray observations of
these "burst oscillations" can then be used to measure the star's rotation
rate. Their cause is unknown: possibilities include patchy fuel
distribution, global waves in the hot ocean, or thermonuclear hurricanes.
The successful candidate will focus on theoretical investigation of the
phenomenon, but will also play an active role in a comprehensive analysis of
existing X-ray data.
This is a joint study by the Universities of Amsterdam (Dr Anna Watts, Prof.
Michiel van der Klis) and Leiden (Dr Yuri Levin). The position will be based
in Amsterdam at the Astronomical Institute, a lively international research
center with 20 faculty/postdocs and 20-25 PhD students. To take full
advantage of the available opportunities the student will also spend at
least one day per week in Leiden.
Applicants should have a Masters degree in astronomy/theoretical
physics/applied mathematics, and be fluent in English. Salary will be on the
standard Dutch university scale, which is very competitive internationally.
Interested candidates should email a brief letter of interest, a CV
(including courses taken, grades, research experience and publications) and
arrange for three letters of reference to be sent (also by email). Review of
applications will begin on July 15 and continue until the position is
filled.
For further information, and submission of application materials, email Anna
Watts: [log in to unmask]
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