"Postdoctoral Research Assistant"

University of Oxford

Location:	Oxford
Salary:	£39,424 to £47,779 Grade 7
Hours:	Full Time
Contract Type:	Fixed-Term/Contract
Placed On:	10th February 2026
Closes:	6th March 2026
Job Ref:	184445

Denys Wilkinson Building, Keble Road, Oxford

Applications are invited for a Postdoctoral Research Assistant in Astrophysics (ERC RedH0T).

This project will be part of the ERC Synergy Grant “Red-Teaming the Hubble Tension” (RedH0T). The goal is to determine whether the Hubble tension arises from observational issues or from limitations in the current cosmological model by combining lensing information and dynamics of the lens to measure H0 with time delays in lensed quasars and supernovae.

The successful candidate will join the group of Professor Michele Cappellari in Oxford and work in the context of the TDCOSMO collaboration. They will lead the analysis of galaxy dynamics combined with strong gravitational lensing, using data from Euclid, LSST, and VLT observations. Collaboration with the other RedH0T nodes (Barcelona, Aachen, JHU) is expected. Candidates are expected to demonstrate the ability to manage their own academic research, contribute ideas for new research projects, and collaborate effectively with colleagues in partner institutions. The post-holder will have the opportunity to teach.

Applicants should hold PhD (or close to completion) in Physics or a related field. A strong background in Galaxy dynamics and gravitational lensing is essential, as well as strong communications and written skills.

For informal queries, please contact Prof. Michele Cappellari michele.cappellari@physics.ox.ac.uk

The post is full time and fixed term for 1 year with possibility of extension for 2 more years.

The closing date for applications is 12 PM, GMT, 6 March 2026.

As part of your application you will be required to upload a CV and Supporting Statement. The CV should include a publication list, or a link to an ADS library, and should be up to 4-pages long without publications. The supporting statement should be 2 pages of A4 and must explain how you meet each of the selection criteria for the post with examples of your skills and research track record. This can include experience gained in employment and education. Details of any career breaks (such as time out to care for dependants) can also be included.

Your referees should be asked to send their letter, to Leanne O’Donnell leanne.odonnell@physics.ox.ac.uk by the closing date.

Contact Person: Recruitment Team

Closing Date & Time: 06-Mar-2026 12:00

Pay Scale: RESEARCH GRADE 7

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