Researcher in Astrophysics

Dublin City University

Position #: 003243
Contract: 4-Year Fixed Term
Location: School of Physical Sciences, Dublin City University, Ireland
Closing Date: Sunday, 1st March 2026

Role Profile

Dublin City University invites applications for a 4-year postdoctoral position in solar astrophysics within the group of Dr. David Long, School of Physical Sciences. This position is funded by the Research Ireland Frontiers for the Future Project “SEP Origins”.

The successful candidate will focus on modelling the expected spectroscopic signatures of plasma fractionation processes at different heights in the solar atmosphere. Responsibilities include:

• Predicting and identifying spectroscopic signatures of plasma fractionation and associated energetic seed particle populations in the low solar atmosphere.
• Working with space-based mission data, including Hinode/EIS, IRIS, and Solar Orbiter SPICE.
• Applying machine learning techniques to analyze archival and future mission data.
• Conducting independent research while collaborating with the PI and team.
• Opportunities for collaboration, supervision, teaching, and presentation at major international conferences.

Salary

• IUA Postdoctoral Researcher Salary Scale: €46,805 – €59,654 (Point 1 – Point 10)
• Appointment commensurate with qualifications and experience in line with Government pay policy.

Qualifications & Experience

Candidates should demonstrate:

• Proven ability to carry out research projects with independence.
• Strong team-working skills and collaboration capabilities.
• Familiarity with solar physics, spectroscopic analysis, and plasma processes is highly desirable.
• Experience in using machine learning techniques for data analysis is a plus.

Additional Information

• This role does not meet criteria for a Critical Skills permit as stipulated by the Department of Enterprise, Trade & Employment.
• Informal enquiries: Dr. David Long, Assistant Professor, School of Physical Sciences, DCU – david.long@dcu.ie (Do not submit applications to this email).
• More information on the School: School of Physical Sciences

Application Procedure

Applicants must submit their applications through the DCU online system, including:

1. Curriculum Vitae (CV)
2. Cover Letter
3. Completed Application Form (downloadable from the vacancy page)

Incomplete applications will not be processed.

Equal Opportunities & Support

Dublin City University is an equal opportunities employer committed to:

• Equality of treatment under the Employment Equality Acts 1998 – 2015.
• Providing support and accommodations for candidates with disabilities to fully participate.
• Promoting gender equality and addressing gender pay gaps (Athena Swan Silver Award).

For more information on policies and work environment: DCU Policy Starter Packs

Contact for recruitment support:

• Email: talent@dcu.ie
• Phone: +00353 1 700 5149

Attachments:

• Job Description (288.7 KB)
• Application Form (49.1 KB)