Postdoctoral Researcher in Machine Learning for Exoplanet Atmospheric Modelling

About the Role

The School of Physical Sciences at [Employer hidden — view at passion-project.co.uk], UK, invites applications for a 3-year fixed-term postdoctoral researcher in machine learning for exoplanet atmosphere modelling. The postdoctoral researcher will work with Dr Joanna Barstow and Dr Hugh Dickinson as part of the STFC-funded research project 'Rainbow Connection: Exoplanet Cloud Scattering Via Neural Networks'. The role will involve developing a neural network-based emulator for Mie scattering calculations, integrating the emulator into the NemesisPy atmospheric model, and applying this to observational data from the James Webb Space Telescope to constrain hot Jupiter cloud composition.

Key Responsibilities

• Developing, training and testing a neural network Mie scattering emulator.
• Using existing Mie scattering routines to construct training and test data sets.
• Modelling exoplanet transmission spectra and comparing to observational data; duties may also include writing telescope proposals to obtain further data.
• Leading scientific publications related to the research outcomes.
• Working with, and providing day to day support to, PhD students in exoplanet atmospheres.
• Disseminating the research at major national and international conferences.
• Developing their own independence by leading observing proposals, and leading and/or co-ordinating work within international teams.

About You

Essential:

• PhD in Astronomy, Astrophysics or a related field.
• Experience in modelling exoplanet atmospheres OR experience in applying machine learning techniques, especially neural networks, to astrophysical data.
• A developing track record of peer-reviewed publications in international journals.
• Experience of Python programming for scientific data processing and analysis.
• Time management and project planning skills.
• The ability to present your research effectively both orally and in scientific writing.
• The ability to work both independently and as part of a diverse team.

Desirable:

• Experience in spectral retrieval of exoplanet atmospheres.
• Experience working with JWST observations of exoplanets.

How to apply

To apply for this role please submit the following document(s):

• CV
• Supporting Statement (Your Supporting Statement should be no more than 1000 words and should outline how your skills and experience meet the essential and desirable criteria listed above)