Applications are invited for a Postdoctoral Fellowship in the Dublin Institute for Advanced Studies (DIAS) Astronomy & Astrophysics Section working with the Planetary Magnetospheres Group [dias.ie/planetary]. The Astronomy & Astrophysics Section is a vibrant and inclusive community of more than 40 researchers working on planetary science, solar physics, space weather, star formation, and high-energy astrophysics.

The Planetary Magnetospheres group work on a range of topics in the solar system. These include: (i) the classification of the field and plasma environment at Mercury with data from NASA MESSENGER and looking toward to future measurements by BepiColombo, (ii) the study of solar wind-magnetosphere-ionosphere coupling at Earth using radio data from orbiting spacecraft like Wind, ground-based magnetometer data and upstream solar wind monitoring, (iii) the exploration of Jupiter’s magnetosphere with NASA Juno, examining multi-wavelength auroral emissions from X-ray to radio to UV, in situ fields, plasma and energetic particles, and modelling moon-magnetosphere interactions. We also have formal involvement in the ESA JUICE mission, quantifying the impact of spacecraft charging on plasma measurements. At the core of our team’s work are the highest standards in coding and data visualisation, underpinned by our community-facing approach and openness to sharing our software [https://github.com/diasplanetary] and tools/event lists [dias.ie/planetary/#magneto-software].

There is scope for scientific independence with this post, with the successful applicant working in one of the broad areas listed above, depending on past experience and future aspirations.

The successful candidate will be working at the centre of a vibrant research group, collaborating with other researchers locally and internationally on the treatment and interpretation of spacecraft data and/or model outputs.

This position is available for 2 years in the first instance, with possible scope for extension thereafter, starting as soon as possible. Remuneration is based on Science Foundation Ireland Postdoctoral Fellowship team member budget scales (available here) and starting salary will depend on experience. Applicants need to have a PhD in space physics, computer science, or a closely related field. A good command of English, to at least IELTS level 6.5, is required for international applicants. Experience with programming in Python is advantageous.

Applications should be submitted through the DIAS online e-recruitment system by 5pm on October 31st 2023 here.

Candidates should upload as one pdf document:

• A covering letter explaining their motivation and research interests (1 page maximum)
• A CV (2 pages maximum)
• A list of publications
• The names of up to 3 academic referees who may be contacted.

At DIAS, we are committed to building an inclusive scientific community, distinguished by scientific excellence, gender balance, and diversity. Proposals for flexible working will be considered. Applicants are encouraged to include in their CV details of any career breaks, and (if applicable) a short statement on any impact the Covid-19 pandemic had on their scientific productivity.

Please direct any enquiries about the position to: Prof. Caitriona Jackman cjackman@cp.dias.ie