ASTRON is the Netherlands Institute for Radio Astronomy. Its mission is to make discoveries in radio astronomy happen, via the development of novel and innovative technologies, the operation of world-class radio astronomy facilities, and the pursuit of fundamental astronomical research

The Radio Observatory division of ASTRON invites applications for

Support Scientist positions

in the Science Support Group that will be available, starting in 2012

These positions offer exciting opportunities for front-line research in radio astronomy, as well as for in-depth involvement in exploiting highly innovative new observing facilities, realizing their full potential along with the first users. ASTRON is starting operations of the Low Frequency Array (LOFAR), a cutting-edge, low-frequency, multi-field aperture array telescope that is using transformational technologies and novel software approaches. LOFAR has started producing unique data in the relatively unexplored spectral window below 200 MHz. An expanding set of science modes will be commissioned in the next few years. ASTRON also operates the Westerbork Synthesis Radio Telescope (WSRT), an array of fourteen 25m radio telescopes with state-of-the-art instrumentation. APERTIF (APERture Tile In Focus), a next generation observing system using focal plane array technology, is being developed for the WSRT in order to significantly expand its field of view, enabling new types of astronomical research. The WSRT also participates in the European and Global VLBI Networks.

Appointees will be expected to spend 50% of their time on astronomical research and 50% on support work. Depending on technical background and interests, their support responsibilities may include:

• Assistance with the development of new observing modes, software, or hardware.
• Astronomical commissioning and testing of new equipment and capabilities.
• Advising and assisting users to design, prepare, run, process, and analyse observations.
• Monitoring of system performance.
• Overseeing the planning of astronomical projects and the telescope calendar.

Their research can be on any astrophysical topic, although some component involving the use of LOFAR and/or the WSRT and/or allowing possibilities to collaborate with other ASTRON research staff would be preferred. Astronomers at ASTRON are active in many frontline research areas: galaxy structure and evolution, the ISM and IGM, pulsars and compact objects, the transient radio sky, AGN evolution and studies of the magnetic universe, large radio continuum and HI surveys, deep fields, and gravitational lensing. Other front-line research facilities available to astronomers employed in the Netherlands include the ESO-VLT(I), ALMA, JCMT and the ING telescopes. Access to excellent computational facilities and travel support is available.

Depending on experience and skills, these appointments are usually offered for two years in the first instance, with an extension for a third year based on good performance, and the possibility for longer extension in exceptional cases. The positions require a PhD in astronomy, astrophysics or other related discipline. Affinity with instrumentation or software is also valued. A good command of the English language (writing and speaking) is essential. 

Letters of application should be sent to personnel [at] astron [dot] nl. The search will continue until the positions are filled; applications arriving before the deadline of 1 October 2011 will be assured of full consideration. Applications should include a CV, scientific interests, a research proposal and three letters of reference.

Successful candidates will be in the formal employment of the Netherlands Organisation for Scientific Research (NWO), at a salary scale commensurate with age and experience. Generous relocation expenses, as well as an excellent package of benefits and assistance with finding accommodation will be provided (see also www.astron.nl/about-astron/careers/careers). Applicants of any nationality are eligible to apply. Your work place is the ASTRON headquarters, located in Dwingeloo (the Netherlands).

For enquiries please contact: Dr. Antonis Polatidis (polatidis [at] astron [dot] nl), head of the Science Support Group of the Radio Observatory.