• Full time and fixed term appointment for 3 years
• Salary range: Level A, $70,936 - $95,464 plus superannuation

International Centre for Radio Astronomy Research (ICRAR)

The University of Western Australia (UWA) is ranked amongst the top 100 universities in the world and a member of the prestigious Australian Group of Eight research-intensive universities.  With an enviable research track record, vibrant campus and working environments, supported by the freedom to ‘innovate and inspire’ there is no better time to join Western Australia’s top University.

About the team

ICRAR is a WA State funded high profile equal joint venture established in 2009 between Curtin University and The University of Western Australia (UWA). The Centre’s headquarters are located at UWA, with research nodes at both UWA and Curtin. ICRAR is one of the lead Australian organisations participating in the international Square Kilometre Array (SKA) Project.

About the opportunity

We are looking for a highly motivated and suitably qualified candidate to join the local and distant Universe science units at the International Centre for Radio Astronomy Research (ICRAR). The successful candidate will work on multi-wavelength observations of galaxies (primarily GAMA, DEVILS, WAVES and HST), aimed at understanding the origin of stripped low surface brightness material, in particular the role of the group environment in forming it.

Under the supervision of ARC Future Fellow, Associate Professor Aaron Robotham, you will join one of the most active and rapidly growing research institutes in Australia and contribute to the scientific exploitation of state-of-the-art multi-wavelength surveys.

This collaborative project is motivated by A/Prof Robotham receiving an ARC Future Fellowship and will focus on a broad range of data analysis and science, all under the broad umbrella of galaxy evolution research. The expectation is the successful candidate will both facilitate aspects of A/Prof Robotham’s research that he can no longer focus on during the Future Fellowship, as well as develop their own complementary research interests.

To be considered for this role, you will demonstrate:

• PhD in a field relevant to extragalactic astronomy
• Expertise in extragalactic astrophysics
• The ability to interact and collaborate with researchers
• Reliability and effectiveness in distributed scientific collaborations
• A strong publication record evidenced by refereed publications
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills
• The ability to work productively with students and/or contribute to outreach programmes
• Knowledge of high-level computer programming (e.g. Python, R, Julia etc.)

Full details of the position’s responsibilities and the selection criteria are outlined in the position description.

Why ICRAR at the University of Western Australia?

ICRAR astronomers have access to a wide range of observational facilities (including ESO facilities, the AAT, ATCA and ASKAP), as well as to the nearby Pawsey supercomputing centre. The PDRA will be based at the ICRAR headquarters at the beautiful Matilda Bay campus of UWA. Perth, Western Australia, is listed as one of the world's most liveable cities and offers an excellent ocean-side lifestyle.

Closing date: Wednesday, 10 March 2021

This position is only open to UWA based applicants. 

Application details: Please apply online via the Apply Now button.

Applicants should clearly demonstrate that they meet the selection criteria. Applications must include a cover letter, a curriculum vitae, a publication list, and a brief (3 pages maximum) statement of research interests that includes a brief summary of relevant experience and a research plan.

Applicants should also arrange to have two letters of reference sent to A/Prof Aaron Robotham (aaron.robotham@uwa.edu.au) by the application deadline.

Please see the position description prior to applying:  PD - Research Associate - 506322.pdf

Our commitment to inclusion and diversity

UWA is committed to a diverse workforce. We celebrate inclusion and diversity and believe gender equity is fundamental to achieving our goal of being a top 50 university by 2050.

• We have child friendly areas on campus, including childcare facilities. Flexible work arrangements, part-time hours and job sharing will all be considered.
• UWA has been awarded Platinum Employer Status for being a Top Ten Employer for LGBTI Inclusion by the Australian Workplace Equity Index (AWEI -2019).
• UWA has also been awarded Athena Swan Bronze Accreditation in 2020.