Contact: j.gair[AT]ed.ac.ukLocation: Edinburgh, UK
Applications are invited for a Postdoctoral Research Associate in data analysis and simulation for the planned ESA space-based gravitational wave detector LISA. The post is available from 01 September 2017 for 24 months. The precise start date is flexible.
The postholder will take an important and visible role in starting to develop the ground-segment infrastructure for LISA. The focus of the work will be on simulation of instrumental noise sources, in particular arising from the optical system, and on understanding and mitigating the impact of noise sources on science output. The research is funded by a grant from the UK Space Agency and involves direct interaction with the PI (Jonathan Gair) and collaboration with researchers working on the development of the LISA optical bench at Glasgow University and in STFC’s Advanced Technology Centre in Edinburgh. The postholder will also work closely with scientists in Birmingham, Paris and Hanover, to begin development of the LISA data processing architecture. The specific tasks of the post-holder include: simulation of the LISA instrument, design and testing of statistical techniques for LISA data analysis that allow for imperfectly modelled noise and understanding the impact of noise sources on the extraction of scientific information from the data.
The applicant should have a PhD in an area of mathematics (e.g. statistics or mathematical physics), or a related area such as physics, engineering or computer science. It is highly desirable for the candidate to have expertise in one of the following areas: advanced statistical techniques, numerical simulation of experimental apparatus or modelling or experiment of optical measurement systems. Basic knowledge of statistical methods and some experience writing software are desirable for all candidates.
The starting salary will be in the range of GBP 32,004 – 38,183, depending on experience.
Applicants will need to submit a CV, a research statement, and arrange for 2 letters of reference to be sent to hr[AT]maths.ed.ac.uk. The closing date for receipt of applications, including reference letters, is 21 July 2017.