Post Doctoral Research Associate in Stellar Hydrodynamics

“Theoretical Stellar Hydrodynamics”

Grade 7

Salary Range £37,099 - £45,585 (incremental progression)

Fixed term for 7 months

The Opportunity

We are looking for an ambitious individual to join a team of staff in Keele University’s Astrophysics Research Centre (see https://www.keele.ac.uk/scps/research/) in the Faculty of Natural Sciences. 

The appointed PDRA will work in the group of Prof Raphael Hirschi within the Astrophysics Research Centre to conduct research on 3D and 1D hydrodynamic simulations of massive stars and theoretical stellar astrophysics for the STFC-funded project entitled “Synergetic 321D modelling of SN, NS and BH progenitors”, as part of the BRIDGCE UK consortium (https://www.bridgce.ac.uk/). 

The appointed PDRA will lead the component of this project related to 3D-1D modelling of stellar interiors. This will include a range of computer simulations including in particular 3D hydrodynamics simulations or 1D stellar evolution models with as main goal to improve modelling of convection in stellar evolution and produce next-generation progenitor models of SN, NS and BHs building synergy between 3D and 1D stellar modelling. The PDRA will also contribute to code development (including GPU porting) and be encouraged to develop their own research program and their leadership skills. The PDRA will benefit from the support of BRIDGCE collaborators Profs Alex Murphy (Edinburgh), Alison Laird (York) and Jorick Vink (Armagh) and SHYNE team collaborators (e.g. Prof Dave Arnett, Arizona, US). 

Applicants will have a PhD in theoretical stellar astrophysics or a related area and should have a demonstrated aptitude for research. Experience in 3D hydrodynamic simulations of stars (or stellar evolution modelling, theoretical work on stellar convection, rotation or magnetic fields) is highly desirable.

The appointment will be for 7 months, with a start date approximately 1st September 2024.

The Benefits

The University recognises that its success depends upon the contribution and dedication of its talented staff. In return, we have a competitive benefits package available, including:

• Competitive rate of pay with annual increments within the grade (Keele Spine)
• Generous annual leave entitlement with opportunities to purchase additional leave
• Excellent staff pension scheme
• Access to continued personal, professional and career development
• On-site ‘outstanding’ nursery
• Discounted health and fitness facilities on site
• Cycle to work scheme (subject to eligibility)

Please note that the starting salary will typically be at the bottom of the pay scale shown above.

The University is committed to operating flexible working practices wherever possible. 

The University

Further information can be found at https://www.keele.ac.uk/about/

Keele University values equality and diversity across our workforce and to ensuring our staff community is reflective of the diversity of our student population. In support of these commitments the University welcomes applications from individuals of Black, Asian and ethnic minority backgrounds for all roles.

How to Apply

To apply online for this vacancy and for full post details and copies of job descriptions, please click on the 'Apply' button above. 

Keele University employees wishing to apply should login to Employee Self Service and click on the 'View current vacancies' link.

Informal enquiries may be addressed to Prof Raphael Hirschi r.hirschi@keele.ac.uk. Applications to this address will not be accepted. 

Closing Date: 30 April 2024

Interviews will be held on: 15 May 2024

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