Postdoctoral Research Assistant in Galaxy Evolution Studies

University of Oxford - Astrophysics

Location: Denys Wilkinson Building, Oxford

Applications are invited for a Post-doctoral Research Assistant in Galaxy Evolution Studies.

The project is focusing on Active Galactic Nuclei (AGN) radiative feedback and in particular its impact on the interstellar medium (ISM) of the host galaxy. Using a number of dust and gas tracers in the 2–28-micron regime, the project will uncover how supermassive black holes (SMBH) impact the ISM in their host galaxies by overcoming the glare of the AGN that overwhelms the host galaxy’s light.

The successful candidate will primarily analyse data from the James Webb Space Telescope. In addition, they will be expected to take the lead in designing follow-up programs with ground-based and space facilities; develop new data reduction techniques for analysis and interpretation of infrared photometric and spectroscopic data; publish and disseminate their results. You will have the opportunity to teach.

Applicants should have a PhD (or close to completion) in Astronomy/Astrophysics or a related field and ideally a strong background in infrared and submm/mm data reduction and analysis techniques. Candidates are expected to demonstrate how they can work in a team towards a specified goal, and have a publication record commensurate with their experience.

Please direct enquiries about the role to:
Prof. Dimitra Rigopoulou (dimitra.rigopoulou@physics.ox.ac.uk) and Prof. Niranjan Thatte (niranjan.thatte@physics.ox.ac.uk)

The post is full time and fixed term for 3 years.

The closing date for applications is noon GMT, 12PM, 20 April 2026. Only applications received by the closing date can be guaranteed full consideration.

As part of the online application, you will be asked to upload a CV (including publication list), a statement about your (past, current, and future) research interests (max. 3 pages) and a supporting statement (max 1 page). The supporting statement must explain how you meet each of the selection criteria for the post using examples of your skills and experience. This may include experience gained in employment, education, or during career breaks (such as time out to care for dependents) and details of two referees as part of your online application.

Your referees should be asked to send their letters, before the application deadline, to Leanne O’Donnell (leanne.odonnell@physics.ox.ac.uk) by the closing date.

Contact Person: Recruitment Team

Pay Scale: RESEARCH GRADE 7

Contact Email: recruitment@physics.ox.ac.uk