The School of Physics & Astronomy is recruiting a Postdoctoral Research Fellow to work on Echo Mapping of Accretion Flows in Active Galactic Nuclei.

We invite applications from active collaborative researchers with expertise in multi-wavelength time-domain astrophysics to take a leading role in collaboration with Prof Keith Horne on understanding black hole accretion flows through echo mapping experiments that resolve their structure by interpreting time delay information secured through spectrophotometric monitoring of variability. Analysis will include intensive monitoring with St Andrews time on the Las Cumbres Observatory global robotic telescope network, major allocations of time on space telescopes including Swift, HST, and XMM, secured through collaboration with international teams, and may include multi-object spectroscopic monitoring from the Sloan Digital Sky Survey Reverberation Mapping experiment, and preparations for successors such as the SDSS V Black Hole Mapper and the LSST.

The School of Physics & Astronomy offers a vibrant and modern work environment. Astrophysics research in St Andrews combines theoretical, numerical and observational research in star formation, protoplanetary discs, extra-solar planets, stellar magnetic activity, star-planet interaction, gravitational lensing, active galactic nuclei, galaxy dynamics and cosmology.

The successful candidate should have a PhD in astronomy, astrophysics, or a closely related field by the appointment start date, with experience in the analysis of multi-wavelength time-domain observations or theoretical modelling of active galactic nuclei. The post is available immediately and is funded for a period of up to three years by an STFC consolidated grant, including funds for computing and travel.

Informal enquiries to Prof Keith Horne, e-mail: kdh1@st-andrews.ac.uk.

Candidates should send a cover letter outlining their qualifications for the post, a CV, publication list, and a brief statement summarising research experience and interests, and arrange for two letters of reference to be provided.

The University is committed to equality for all, demonstrated through our working on diversity awards (ECU Athena SWAN/Race Charters; Carer Positive; LGBT Charter; and Stonewall).  More details can be found at http://www.st-andrews.ac.uk/hr/edi/diversityawards/.

Closing Date: 28 September 2018