• Full time fixed term employment for 3 years, located in the School of Physics, Camperdown Campus

• Research opportunity in solar astrophysics

• Base Salary, Level A, $101,507 - $112,462 + 17% superannuation 

About the opportunity

The Postdoctoral Research Associate in Computational Modelling in Solar Astrophysics will use theory, data analysis, and computation to improve our ability to model the state as well as the dynamical evolution of solar active regions, which are responsible for solar activity including solar flares and coronal mass ejections (CMEs). Flares and CMEs are the most energetic events in the solar system and can create hazardous conditions in our local space environment. This project involves: developing computational methods for data-constrained and data-driven modelling of solar active regions; applying the methods to synthetic and observational data to assess their reliability and for the purpose of modelling; using the methods to develop capabilities for flare and CME prediction. The work will involve collaboration with domestic and international researchers.

Your key responsibilities will be to:

• work closely with and report to Professor Michael Wheatland on all aspects of the project

• perform data analysis with solar data, develop numerical models for coronal magnetic fields, and apply and test the models

• collaborate with other researchers at the University of Sydney and elsewhere, and assist students in research projects

• undertake domestic and international travel to meet the goals of the project

• publish results in high-impact journals

• communicate results at local and international meetings.

About you

The University values courage and creativity; openness and engagement; inclusion and diversity; and respect and integrity. As such, we see the importance of recruiting talent aligned to these values and are looking for a Postdoctoral Research Associate who has:

• a PhD (or one to be completed before starting) in physics or applied mathematics

• excellent computational skills, including the ability to write compiled codes for large-scale computation, as well as codes in Python or other languages for data analysis

• demonstrated skills in data analysis, computational modelling using data, and the visualization and interpretation of data and models

• demonstrated ability to conduct research/scholarly activities under limited supervision, as well as to work effectively as a member of a team

• excellent communication (written and verbal), as well organizational and problem-solving skills with attention to detail

• experience in handling astrophysical datasets

• a history of publication in refereed journals as a sole author or in collaboration

• experience in research record-keeping and preparation of research papers and seminars.

To keep our community safe, please be aware of our COVID safety precautions which form our conditions of entry for all staff, students and visitors coming to campus.

Pre-employment checks

Your employment is conditional upon the completion of all role required pre-employment or background checks in terms satisfactory to the University. Similarly, your ongoing employment is conditional upon the satisfactory maintenance of all relevant clearances and background check requirements. If you do not meet these conditions, the University may take any necessary step, including the termination of your employment.

EEO statement 

At the University of Sydney, our shared values include diversity and inclusion and we strive to be a place where everyone can thrive. We are committed to creating a University community which reflects the wider community that we serve. We deliver on this commitment through our people and culture programs, as well as key strategies to increase participation and support the careers of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander People, women, people living with a disability, people from culturally and linguistically diverse backgrounds, and those who identify as LGBTIQ. We welcome applications from candidates from all backgrounds. 

How to apply

Applications (including a cover letter, CV, and any additional supporting documentation) can be submitted via the Apply button at the top of the page.  

For employees of the University or contingent workers, please login into your Workday account and navigate to the Career icon on your Dashboard.  Click on USYD Find Jobs and apply.

For a confidential discussion about the role, or if you require reasonable adjustment or any documents in alternate formats, please contact Rebecca Astar or Chris Masaoka, Recruitment Operations by email to recruitment.sea@sydney.edu.au.

© The University of Sydney

The University reserves the right not to proceed with any appointment.

Click to view the Position Description for
this role.

Applications Close