Postdoctoral Research Assistant in Supernova Cosmology

University of Oxford - Department of Physics

Location: Denys Wilkinson Building, Oxford

Salary: £39,424 to £47,779 per annum. Grade 7

Hours: Full Time

Contract Type: Fixed-Term/Contract

Placed On: 13th October 2025

Closes: 12th December 2025

Job Ref: 182367

Applications are invited for a Postdoctoral Research Assistant position in supernova cosmology and time-domain astrophysics, working with data from Rubin Observatory, 4MOST, Euclid, and low-redshift transient surveys such as ATLAS.

The successful candidate will lead independent and collaborative research projects aimed at improving the use of Type Ia supernovae as cosmological probes and advancing our understanding of dark energy.

Projects may span a broad range of topics, including improving Type Ia supernova modelling and standardization, developing and applying advanced data analysis and statistical methods for supernova cosmology, contributing to data acquisition and spectroscopic follow-up for Rubin using 4MOST and related facilities.

The postholder will join Oxford’s vibrant astrophysics community, home to both the Hintze Centre for Astrophysical Surveys and the Beecroft Institute for Particle Astrophysics and Cosmology. They will also get involved with the LSST-Dark Energy Science Collaboration, the international collaboration in charge of cosmological measurements with Rubin data. They will have opportunities to supervise graduate students, participate in outreach, and may engage in tutorial teaching and college life.

Successful candidates should hold a PhD (or be close to completion) in a relevant area of astrophysics or physics, and should have experience in Type Ia supernova cosmology (e.g., supernova modelling, simulations, data analysis and statistical methods) and/or transient data acquisition. Candidates are expected to possess strong communication skills and the ability to work effectively in collaborative research environments.

Please direct enquiries about the role to Dr. Maria Vincenzi (Maria.Vincenzi@physics.ox.ac.uk).

This is a full-time post, fixed term until 30 June 2028.

Only applications received before midday 12th December 2025 can be considered. You will be required to upload a CV (maximum three pages, including a publication list or a NASA ADS link) and a 3-page supporting statement outlining your research interests, experience, and how you meet the selection criteria. You should arrange for your 2 referees to send your reference to leanne.odonnell@physics.ox.ac.uk before the closing date.

Contact Person: Recruitment Team

Pay Scale: RESEARCH GRADE 7

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