One or two postdoctoral positions at the Allegro node

The position offers the opportunity for research at one of the major centres of astronomy in the Netherlands as well as an in-depth involvement in the development and operations of ALMA. Leiden astronomers carry out observational and theoretical research in the fields of cosmology, formation and evolution of galaxies, galactic structure, molecular astrophysics, star- and planet formation, as well as computational and laboratory astrophysics and instrumentation. In particular, we are interested in candidates that use ALMA or ALMA data as a prominent part of their research. A minimum of 30% of time will be available for personal research. Besides self-defined research, the appointee is expected to spend time on the technical and user support of ALMA and we are looking for an enthusiastic and motivated applicant to work within the Allegro team on a variety of topics. Allegro's expertise areas include high-frequency submm observations, research into improved imaging and calibration techniques for ALMA data, especially related to atmospheric effects and phase metrics, mmVLBI, and advanced science tools such as radiative transfer codes and a spectral line database. The appointment will be for two years initially, renewable up to a maximum of six years based on need, funding, and performance. The position comes with a competitive salary and full benefits of an employee in the public sector.

Qualifications: PhD in Astronomy, Physics, or related field, or proven track record of relevant experience. Research experience in fields directly related to submm astronomy. Experience with radio interferometric data is desirable. The applicant must have a good working knowledge of Linux. Programming experience or familiarity with astronomical data reduction is a desirable. An ability to work as part of an international team is essential. The position may involve extended research trips of several weeks. A starting date no later than October 2015 is preferred. The Leiden ARC node values diversity in its workforce. Women and underrepresented minorities are particularly encouraged to apply.

Please submit applications electronically at http://jobs.strw.leidenuniv.nl/2015/tilanusPD. The search will continue until the position is filled; applications arriving before the deadline of Feb 15, 2015 will be assured of full consideration. You will be asked to fill in a web form, to provide contact information for three referees, and to upload a cover letter, curriculum vitae, a brief statement of research experience and interests and a publication list.

Postdoc salaries range from € 2919 to € 3831 gross per month (pay scale 10, in accordance with the Collective Labour Agreement for Dutch Universities). Leiden University offers an attractive benefits package that includes additional vacation (8%) and end-of-year (8.3%) bonuses, sick leave, maternity and parental leaves, and retirement benefits. Candidates from outside the Netherlands may be eligible for a substantial tax break. Leiden Observatory is the oldest university astronomy department in the world and the largest astronomy department in the Netherlands. Leiden is a charming university town with international flair close to Amsterdam.

Email Address for Inquiries: rtilanus@strw.leidenuniv.nl