The Dunlap Institute for Astronomy and Astrophysics at the University of Toronto (UofT) seeks to appoint a postdoctoral researcher to work on on scientific and technical problems related to two new wide-field polarimetry surveys: the Polarization Sky Survey of the Universe’s Magnetism (POSSUM) and the Very Large Array Sky Survey (VLASS).

The appointee is expected to contribute to the success of the POSSUM and VLASS projects via the development of relevant software, data processing and catalogue products, working under the supervision of Prof Bryan Gaensler. Applicants will also be encouraged to conduct independent research in areas relevant to POSSUM and VLASS. People with skills in software pipelines, source finding, large astronomical surveys/catalogues and radio polarization are all encouraged to apply. Prospective candidates are strongly encouraged to contact Prof. Gaensler (bryan.gaensler@utoronto.ca) for additional information on the position and on the POSSUM and VLASS surveys before submitting their application.

The Dunlap Institute pursues groundbreaking astronomical research through innovative approaches to instrumentation, data-driven science and observations, alongside a substantive commitment to outreach and training. The Dunlap Institute is co-located with and has strong ties to the University of Toronto’s David A. Dunlap Department of Astronomy and Astrophysics (DADDAA) and to the Canadian Institute for Theoretical Astrophysics (CITA). These three units together host more than 150 faculty, postdocs, staff and students, who conduct a diverse research program across instrumentation, observations, computation and theory. The Dunlap Institute is located on a beautiful 19th century campus in the heart of one of the world’s great cities. Rated as having one of the highest standards of living in the world, Toronto offers a huge range of indoor and outdoor pursuits, and a vibrant and diverse cultural community.

The initial appointment will be for two years, with the possibility of further extensions subject to funding availability. The position has a starting annual salary of CAD$66,996 plus generous benefits, an annual research allowance, relocation assistance, and the opportunity to request additional research funds.

Applications will be assessed against the following criteria:

Essential criteria

• A PhD in astronomy, astrophysics, or a related field at the time of commencement, awarded on or after January 1, 2018 (career interruptions or other extenuating circumstances will be accommodated, and should be noted in the cover letter)
• Demonstrated experience in processing of large astronomical surveys, pipelines or catalogues
• Proficiency in written and oral communication (as evidenced by outputs such as refereed journal publications, conference talks, grants, observing/computing proposals, etc.)

• Prior expertise in radio polarimetry or radio interferometry
• Experience in supervision and mentoring of research students.

The Dunlap Institute is committed to an inclusive and flexible workplace. We encourage applications from qualified applicants of all sexual orientations and gender expressions, racialized people, Indigenous peoples, and persons with disabilities. Subject to immigration regulations, the successful candidate will be given the option to take up the position as a part-time appointment (such a request need not be made as part of a candidate's initial application).

The nominal starting date for the position is September 1, 2023, but some flexibility is available. All application materials must be submitted online at AcademicJobsOnline by December 1, 2022. Applicants should submit (in PDF format): a cover letter explicitly addressing the above selection criteria; a curriculum vitae, a list of publications, and a one-page summary of current and future research interests. Applicants should also arrange to have three letters of reference (on letterhead and signed) uploaded through AcademicJobsOnline directly by the writers by December 1, 2022.

Employment as a Postdoctoral Fellow at the University of Toronto is covered by the terms of the CUPE 3902 Unit 5 Collective Agreement. This job is posted in accordance with the CUPE 3902 Unit 5 Collective Agreement.

The University of Toronto is strongly committed to diversity within its community and especially welcomes applications from racialized persons / persons of colour, women, Indigenous / Aboriginal People of North America, persons with disabilities, LGBTQ2S+ persons, and others who may contribute to the further diversification of ideas.