Research Associate/Assistant in Observational Event Horizon Telescope (mm‑VLBI) Science (Fixed Term)
Join the Institute of Astronomy, University of Cambridge to work within Professor Sera Markoff’s research group on the Event Horizon Telescope (EHT). The role focuses on analysing, calibrating, and proposing new observations of supermassive black holes and active galactic nuclei using global millimetre‑VLBI arrays.
Responsibilities
* Propose and design new EHT and multi‑wavelength observational programmes.
* Contribute to the analysis and calibration of EHT data, including high‑frequency observations and frequency phase transfer techniques.
* Collaborate with the EHT consortium and the ERC Synergy grant project "Blackholistic" to advance understanding of accretion and jet formation.
* Interpret existing data with interdisciplinary teams of observers and theorists.
* Raise awareness of EHT science within Cambridge and the wider UK community.
* Attend regular meetings, prepare publications, and present results at conferences.
* Travel frequently as required for observations, collaborations, and conferences.
Qualifications
* PhD in Physics or Astronomy, or submission of PhD thesis by the start of appointment.
* Established track record of original research and a clear future vision for AGN VLBI science.
* Strong communication, data‑analysis, and computing skills.
* Experience or demonstrated interest in VLBI, preferably with AGN observations.
* Ability to work in a large, collaborative, travel‑intensive environment.
Employment Details
Fixed‑term contract for 2 years, with a possibility to extend for up to an additional year. The successful candidate will be appointed at Grade 7 (Research Associate; £37,694 to £46,049 per annum) if holding a PhD; otherwise, the appointment commences at Grade 5 (Research Assistant; £34,610 to £35,608 per annum) and is promoted upon award of the PhD.
Equal Opportunity
The University of Cambridge strongly encourages applications from under‑represented groups and follows the Athena SWAN charter to promote equality, diversity, and inclusion.
Application Process
Submit a cover letter, Curriculum Vitae, publication list, a 3‑page statement of research experience and interests, and contact details of three referees. Applications must reference LG48329 and be received by 23:59 GMT on Monday, 12 January 2026. Referees should provide references by 19 January 2026. Interviews are tentatively scheduled for early February. The start date is negotiable.
For any queries, contact hr@ast.cam.ac.uk or informal inquiries may be directed to Professor Sera Markoff (sera.markoff@ast.cam.ac.uk).
Applicants must ensure they are eligible to live and work in the UK. The University is a signatory of the San Francisco Declaration on Research Assessment (DORA) and does not use journal‑level metrics in evaluating applications.
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