2026-01-18
p.schmidt[AT]bham.ac.uk
Birmingham, UK
The Institute for Gravitational Wave Astronomy at the University of Birmingham, United Kingdom, invites applications for a fixed-term postdoctoral position in gravitational-wave astronomy from April 1, 2026 (start date flexible) until September 30, 2028. The appointment may be extended depending on the availability of funds and comes with a generous travel budget.
The successful candidate will work with Dr Gregorio Carullo, Dr Geraint Pratten, Dr Patricia Schmidt and Prof Alberto Vecchio on topics including gravitational-wave data analysis and parameter estimation, analytical modelling of gravitational-wave sources, numerical relativity simulations of compact binaries, surrogate modelling and machine learning.
The applicant is expected to have a PhD in physics or a related subject, with a background in data analysis techniques and analytical and/or numerical modelling of compact binaries. They will contribute to the activities of the LIGO Scientific Collaboration, and will also have the opportunity to join the LISA Consortium, the Einstein Telescope Collaboration, and the Cosmic Explorer Consortium.
The Institute for Gravitational Wave Astronomy provides a vibrant and diverse environment with expertise across key areas of gravitational-wave astronomy: From theoretical to experimental gravitational-wave research, with applications to present and future-generation detectors, theoretical astrophysics, transient astronomy, gravitational-wave data analysis and source modelling, including numerical relativity and general relativity theory. The candidate will have the opportunity to engage in collaborative research within the Institute.
The University of Birmingham is an equal opportunity employer. The School of Physics and Astronomy is an Athena SWAN Silver Award holder and JUNO Champion, welcomes people from all backgrounds and is committed to fostering an inclusive environment where diversity is at the heart of who we are. We encourage applications from all qualified applicants; those from minority groups who are under-represented in this discipline are particularly welcome.
Applications should include a CV, list of publications, and a statement of past and future research activities of two pages. The deadline for application is January 18th, 2026 for full consideration.
Applications should be submitted through the University of Birmingham job portal (Research Fellow in Gravitational Waves – Physics and Astronomy – 106778 – Grade 7).