Postdoctoral positions on the origin and fate of dust in the universe

Information about the research and the division
Applications are invited for postdoctoral positions in the research project "The Origin and Fate of Dust in the Universe", which is funded by the Knut and Alice Wallenberg foundation.  The project is a collaboration between astronomers and theoretical chemists at Chalmers University of Technology and Gothenburg University. The postdoctoral positions will be for 2+1 years. The successful applicants will, together with postdocs in theoretical chemistry at Gothenburg University form a collaborative unit to study dust formation, destruction, and growth throughout the Universe. The postdocs will also work closely with, and be embedded in, the research groups of Profs. Susanne Aalto, Kirsten Knudsen and Wouter Vlemmings in AoP. More information on specific research topics can be found at the project webpage cosmic-dust.se. In particular, topics of interest include, observations and modeling of dust around evolved stars, novae, supermassive black holes and the interstellar medium in the local and high-redshift environment.

Research at the Department of Space, Earth and Environment (SEE) addresses fundamental scientific topics. On the one hand, we focus on basic science related to the origins of universe, of our planet and of life. On the other, we observe what is happening on Earth today and develop methods, tools and models that enable us to look towards the future and find solutions to global challenges about resources, energy supply and environmental impact. The research at the division of Astronomy and Plasma Physics (AoP) covers a wide range of topics, including evolved stars, interstellar medium, astrochemistry, star and planet formation, exoplanets, observational cosmology, galaxy formation and evolution and galaxy clusters. The activities of AoP are situated at the main Johanneberg Campus and at the Onsala Space Observatory (OSO), which is the Swedish national facility for Radio Astronomy. The observatory operates telescopes in Sweden, shares in the APEX telescope in Chile, and hosts the Nordic ALMA Regional Center (ARC).   

Major responsibilities
Your major responsibility as postdoc is to perform your research within the extended collaboration of the project "The origin and fate of dust in our Universe". The position might also include opportunities for small fractions of time teaching on undergraduate and master's levels as well as supervising master's and/or PhD students. Another important aspect involves collaboration within academia and with society at large. The position is meritorious for future research duties within academia as well as industry/the public sector.

Qualifications
To qualify for these postdoc positions, you must have a Ph.D. in astronomy or a relevant field and a demonstrated potential for research. Preference is given to candidates with previous experience in dust modeling and observations. 

The position requires sound verbal and written communication skills in English.

Contract terms
Full-time temporary employment. The position is for 2+1 years, starting date is flexible.

We offer
Chalmers offers a cultivating and inspiring working environment in the coastal city of Gothenburg. 
Read more about working at Chalmers and our benefits for employees.

Chalmers aims to actively improve our gender balance. We work broadly with equality projects, for example the GENIE Initiative on gender equality for excellence. Equality and diversity are substantial foundations in all activities at Chalmers.

Application procedure
The application should be marked with Ref 20210592 and written in English. The application should be sent electronically and be attached as pdf-files, as below:

CV: (Please name the document as: CV, Surname, Ref. number) including:
• CV, include complete list of publications

Coverletter: (Please name the document as: Cover letter, Surname, Ref. number):
1 page

Research statement: (Please name the document as: Personal letter, Family name, Ref. number)
max 3 pages where you:
• Describe your previous and current research, 
• Describe your future goals and future research relevant to the topic of the position. 

Other documents:
• Attested copies of completed education, grades and other certificates.

Please use the button at the foot of the page to reach the application form. The files may be compressed (zipped).

Please also arrange for 3 letters of reference to be sent to madelene.olsson@chalmers.se by the application deadline (pdf format preferred). The reference letters should also be marked with Ref 20210592.

Application deadline: 23 January, 2022

For questions, please contact:
Professor Kirsten Knudsen, Astronomy & Plasma Physics; Space, Earth and Environments
E-mail: kirsten.knudsen@chalmers.se
Phone: +46 31 7726355

Professor Susanne Aalto, Astronomy & Plasma Physics; Space, Earth and Environments
E-mail: susanne.aalto@chalmers.se
Phone: +46 31 7726693

Professor Wouter Vlemmings, Astronomy & Plasma Physics; Space, Earth and Environments
E-mail: wouter.vlemmings@chalmers.se
Phone: +46 31 7726354

*** Chalmers declines to consider all offers of further announcement publishing or other types of support for the recruiting process in connection with this position. *** 
   



Chalmers University of Technology conducts research and education in engineering sciences, architecture, technology-related mathematical sciences, natural and nautical sciences, working in close collaboration with industry and society. The strategy for scientific excellence focuses on our six Areas of Advance; Energy, Health Engineering, Information and Communication Technology, Materials Science, Production and Transport. The aim is to make an active contribution to a sustainable future using the basic sciences as a foundation and innovation and entrepreneurship as the central driving forces. Chalmers has around 11,000 students and 3,000 employees. New knowledge and improved technology have characterised Chalmers since its foundation in 1829, completely in accordance with the will of William Chalmers and his motto: Avancez!