Postdoctoral Position in Galactic Archaeology and/or First Stars Projects of ASTRO 3D

Monash University Melbourne , Australia

Published Wed, 09/22/2021 - 1:40 PM Expiration Wed, 10/20/2021 - 12:00 AM or until the posting is filled


A Level A research-only academic is expected to contribute towards the research effort of the University and to develop their research expertise through the pursuit of defined projects relevant to the particular field of research. In collaboration with the Chief Investigator, the Research Fellow is expected to conduct research within the Galactic Archaeology and/or First Stars Projects of ASTRO 3D. The research involves theoretical modelling of stellar and/or chemical evolution, in order to study the origin of elements over cosmic time and aid in the interpretation of Galactic Archaeology measurements from e.g., the Galah project. Specific research outcomes include the calculation, analysis and publication of theoretical models of stars and/or the chemical evolution of galaxies. Predictions from stellar models will be used as input into Galactic chemical evolution simulations or chemo-dynamical models, or be used for comparison to observations of very metal-poor stars from the First Stars project. Understanding the origin of matter and the periodic table of elements is a fundamental outcome for ASTRO 3D.

Reporting Line: The position reports to the Chief Investigator
Supervisory Responsibilities: Not applicable
Financial Delegation: Not applicable
Budgetary Responsibilities: Not applicable

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES Specific duties required of a Level A research-only academic may include:

1. The conduct of research on the evolution of stars and their nucleosynthesis (including but not limited to metal-poor stars, low and intermediate-mass stars, post AGB stars and compact objects, binary stars, massive stars), or the chemical evolution of galaxies (single zone, inhomogeneous, chemo-dynamical models) under limited supervision either as a member of a team or, where appropriate, independently
2. The production or contribution to the production of conference and seminar papers and publications from that research
3. Limited administrative functions primarily connected with the area of research of the academic
4. Development of a limited amount of research-related material for teaching or other purposes with appropriate guidance from other staff
5. Occasional contributions to teaching in relation to their research project(s)
6. Attendance at meetings associated with research or the work of the organisational unit to which the research is connected and/or at departmental, school and/or faculty meetings and/or membership of a limited number of committees
7. Advice within the field of the staff member's research to postgraduate students
8. Other duties as directed from time to time

KEY SELECTION CRITERIA Education/Qualifications

1. The appointee will have:
 a doctoral qualifications in Astrophysics or Astronomy or a closely related field, with research interests and experience in theoretical modelling of stars or galaxies

Knowledge and Skills
2. Experience with stellar evolution, nucleosynthesis and/or Galactic chemical evolution modelling
3. Demonstrated analytical and manuscript preparation skills; including a track record of refereed research publications
4. Ability to solve complex problems by using discretion, innovation and the exercise diagnostic skills and/or expertise
5. Well-developed planning and organisational skills, with the ability to prioritise multiple tasks and set and meet deadlines
6. Excellent written communication and verbal communication skills with proven ability to produce clear, succinct reports and documents
7. A demonstrated awareness of the principles of confidentiality, privacy and information handling
8. A demonstrated capacity to work in a collegiate manner with other staff in the workplace
9. Demonstrated proficiency with theoretical astrophysical modelling tools and software, with the capability and willingness to learn new modelling and data analysis tools as appropriate

OTHER JOB RELATED INFORMATION
 Travel to other campuses of the University may be required
 There may be a requirement to work additional hours from time to time
 There may be peak periods of work during which taking of leave may be restricted
 A current satisfactory Working With Children Check is required

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