Job Advertisement: Closing Date 15th October 2011
Postdoc position in LOFAR long-baseline development and implementation (Bonn)
LOFAR <http://www.lofar.org/> is an innovative, low-frequency, multi-station
aperture array telescope that is using new technologies and novel software
approaches. LOFAR has entered its commissioning phase and started producing
unique data in the relatively unexplored spectral window below 200 MHz.
The Argelander-Institute for Astronomy at the University of Bonn is offering a
(max.) three-year postdoc/software developer position for long-baseline
calibration development and implementation to start as soon as possible. The
international baselines of LOFAR require special calibration schemes that are
not fully included in the general calibration pipeline, yet. Sophisticated
fringe-fitting methods that take into account the special polarisation
properties of the system have to be developed for this purpose. Current
algorithms have to be extended and added to the calibration pipeline.
Long-baseline commissioning is continuously making progress, see
<http://arxiv.org/abs/1008.4358>,
<http://www.astro.uni-bonn.de/~wucknitz/wiki/doku.php/lbg:start>. Contributing
to these efforts will be part of the project. Despite the emphasis of
technical development work, unique science projects will be possible as
well. Particularly the long baselines of LOFAR are probing an entirely new
parameter space with many important discoveries to be expected. LOFAR has
already improved the resolution of low-frequency VLBI imaging by an order of
magnitude. Appointees are expected to spend 50% of their time on astronomical
research (which would preferably be related to LOFAR) and 50% on development
work.
Relevant qualifications are experience in radio interferometry beyond the bare
user level, particularly on very long baselines, a mathematical understanding
of the methods involved, and programming expertise. This experience should
generally be proven by a PhD in astronomy, physics or another relevant field,
even though a Master's degree may be sufficient in particular cases. The
ability to work independently but in cooperation with an international team of
astronomers and developers, as well as excellent communication skills and a
good command of the English language are essential.
Applications (preferably by email) should include a CV, a statement of
interests and experience, the prefered starting date, and three letters of
reference. Applicants of any nationality are eligible to apply. The University
of Bonn is an equal opportunities employer. Deadline for full consideration is
15 October 2011. Applications may still be accepted until the position is
filled.
The remuneration is based on a public pay scale (generally TV-L/E13) and
subject to age and experience. Comprehensive benefits include paid vacation,
sick leave, parental leave, and social security benefits (contributions to
unemployment and health insurance as well as retirement scheme).
This project is part of wider LOFAR efforts by a consortium of astronomical
institutes in Germany. Positions in other fields (to be announced on the AAS
job register in September) are available as well. Applicants who would like to
have their application considered also for other locations should state this
in the cover letter.
More information is available on request.
Dr. Olaf Wucknitz
Argelander-Institute for Astronomy
Auf dem Huegel 71
53121 Bonn
Germany
email: [log in to unmask]
http://www.astro.uni-bonn.de/~wucknitz/
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