Data Validation Scientist (Fixed Term)

Fixed-term: The funds for this post are available until 31 October 2027 in the first instance.

This is an interesting opportunity for a data scientist to work at the Institute of Astronomy (IoA), University of Cambridge, as part of the Gaia and PLATO system development teams within the IoA Data Projects (CamCEAD) group.

Gaia is a space observatory of the European Space Agency (ESA), launched in 2013, and with data releases in Dec 2026 and a final data release in 2030. Gaia's key objective is a detailed study of the Milky Way that is revealing our Galaxy's content, dynamics, current state and formation history. The IoA is responsible for the development and operation of the (spectro)-photometric processing system.

PLATO is an ESA mission, launching end 2026, that will detect and characterise a significant sample of exoplanets around bright stars. Within the PLATO Consortium, the IoA team is responsible for the development and operation of the Exoplanet Analysis System, which will enable the detection of the signatures of exoplanets from high-precision photometric light curves of the host stars.

The successful candidate will work initially within the Gaia development team, with likely later involvement in PLATO development. The main tasks will be in photometric light curve analysis and validation (Gaia and PLATO) and data analysis and development of novel scientific algorithms and applications in the areas of photometric and spectrophotometric processing (Gaia).

The role will also involve liaising with the wider mission consortium teams and external science users; contributing to documentation; and collaborating in the Gaia and PLATO stellar and exoplanet related research programs to optimise interpretation and use of such mission data. The role will include opportunities to interact with the wider CamCEAD team, with potential to contribute machine learning expertise in the context of data systems ranging from ground-based spectroscopy (e.g. WEAVE) to medical imaging (i.e. SPACE/IMAXT).

The successful candidate will have experience in astronomical data analysis activities, coupled with use of machine learning approaches to data validation, a good practical knowledge of scientific algorithm development and a PhD degree in a numerate discipline (preferably Astronomy, Physics, Computer Science, Computer Engineering or related field).

Candidates are expected to be familiar with the acquisition and reduction of data from large-scale astronomical facilities or surveys and with the use of database and web-based systems. Knowledge of Python/Java and object-oriented programming is required, while knowledge of database systems would be advantageous.

The ability to work as part of a team and have good communication skills is also required.

The post-holder will be required to attend meetings both elsewhere in the UK and overseas hence possession of a valid passport is necessary.

Salary will be on the Research Associate scale (Grade 7, from £37,694 - £46,049). Appointment at Research Associate level is dependent on having a PhD. Those who have submitted but not yet received their PhD will initially be appointed as a Research Assistant (Grade 5, Point 38 £34,610) moving to Research Associate (Grade 7) upon confirmation of your PhD award.

To apply online for this position and to view the full job advert along with further details about the role, please click the 'Apply' button above.

Closing date: Applications to be received on 21 September 2025 by 23:59 BST.

The anticipated start date of the appointment is 1st December 2025 or as soon as possible thereafter.

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