Postdoc Cosmology

Job description

We are seeking an enthusiastic candidate for a post-doc position at the intersection of theoretical cosmology and deep learning. You will be part of the research group of Assistant Prof. Daan Meerburg, who is a member of the van Swinderen Institute (VSI) for particle physics and gravity. Within the VSI, Dr Meerburg is part of the Cosmic Frontier and affiliates of this frontier work on topics ranging between theoretical aspects of gravity, cosmic inflation, the cosmic microwave background, 21cm and direct dark matter detection.

The position is funded by the NWO-ENW project: Exploring the non-Gaussian 21cm Universe with Artificial Intelligence. This project is jointly led by Dr Meerburg (PI, Groningen) and Dr Christoph Weninger (co-PI, Amsterdam). The post-doc will initially be hired for 2 years with the possible extension of one more year pending review (max 3 years). This position's main focus will be the interplay between theoretical 21cm cosmology and machine learning. While the postdoc will be stationed at the RUG, it is expected that there will be frequent collaboration meetings between Amsterdam and Groningen, both online and on-site. Recently a PhD student has been recruited using the same funds at the University of Amsterdam. It is expected that the post-doc will be involved in the supervision of this student.

Meerburg’s group currently consists of 2 PhD students, a post-doc and several MSc students. The group will expand with at least one more PhD student next year. While this project focuses on theoretical 21cm cosmology and machine learning, Meerburg is closely involved in several experiments, both in 21cm (REACH) as well as the cosmic microwave background (Simons, CCAT). Depending on the postdoc's interests, the candidate can become involved in these experiments. Meerburg’s group also has collaborations with members of the nearby Kapteyn Institute and is involved in the Fundamentals of the Universe Program.

Organisation

Founded in 1614, the University of Groningen enjoys an excellent international reputation as a dynamic and innovative institution of higher education offering high-quality teaching and research. Flexible study programmes and academic career opportunities in a wide variety of disciplines encourage the 34,000 students and researchers alike to develop their own individual talents. As one of the best research institutions in Europe, the University of Groningen has joined forces with other top universities and networks worldwide to become a truly global centre of knowledge, situated in the vibrant city of Groningen in the north of The Netherlands.

Qualifications

The successful candidate for this position will have the following qualifications/qualities

• A PhD degree in Astrophysics / Theoretical Physics / Mathematics / Computer Science; or related areas.
• Advanced knowledge of theoretical cosmology, preferably 21cm and effective field theories.
• Knowledge of machine learning, preferably simulation-based inference.
• Knowledge of at least one programming code (python preferred but not limited to).
• Very good knowledge of written and spoken English; knowledge of Dutch an asset.
• Very good communication skills, to function as an excellent team player in this collaborative effort.
• Enthusiasm and initiative to perform creative research in an interdisciplinary setting.

Organisation

Conditions of employment

We offer you in accordance with the Collective Labour Agreement for Dutch Universities

• A salary of € 4,060 gross per month (salary scale 10.4 Dutch Universities) based on a full-time position (1.0 FTE), depending of relevant work experience after attaining a PhD
• A holiday allowance of 8% gross annual income and an 8.3% end-of-the-year allowance
• An appointment initially for two years with the possibility of extension for one year.