At a Glance
- Tasks: Research solar flares and CMEs using theory, data analysis, and computation.
- Company: Join the University of Sydney's School of Physics for groundbreaking astrophysics research.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, 17% superannuation, and opportunities for domestic and international travel.
- Other info: Collaborate with top researchers and publish in high-impact journals.
- Why this job: Make a real impact in understanding solar activity and its effects on Earth.
- Qualifications: PhD in physics or applied mathematics with strong computational skills.
The predicted salary is between 107800 - 116300 $ per year.
Full-time 3-year fixed term position, located in the School of Physics, Camperdown Campus.
Research opportunity in solar and stellar astrophysics. Base Salary Level A $117,936 - $125,896 + 17% superannuation.
About the opportunity:
The Postdoctoral Research Associate in Activity on the Sun and Solar-like stars will use theory, data analysis, and computation to improve our understanding of solar flares and coronal mass ejections (CMEs) and their counterparts on solar-like stars. Flares and CMEs are the most energetic events in the solar system and are drivers for space weather events which directly affect the Earth. This project will involve developing new and improving existing methods of modelling and analysis of solar active regions, the source regions for flares and CMEs, and applying the results also to stellar flares. The work will involve collaboration with domestic and international researchers.
Your key responsibilities will be to:
- work closely with Professor Michael Wheatland on all aspects of the project
- perform data analysis with a range of solar data, and develop theory and computational methods for understanding and modelling flare and CME activity
- collaborate with other researchers at the University of Sydney and elsewhere, and assist students in research projects
- undertake domestic and international travel to meet the goals of the project
- publish results in high-impact journals
- communicate results at local and international meetings
About you:
- a PhD (or one to be completed before starting) in physics or applied mathematics
- excellent computational skills, including the ability to write compiled codes for large-scale computation, as well as codes in Python or other languages for data analysis
- demonstrated skills in theory, data analysis, computational modelling using data, and the visualization and interpretation of data and models
- demonstrated ability to conduct research/scholarly activities under limited supervision, as well as to work effectively as a member of a team
- excellent communication (written and verbal), as well as organizational and problem solving skills with attention to detail
- experience in handling astrophysical datasets
- a history of publication in refereed journals as a sole author or in collaboration
- experience in research record-keeping and preparation of research papers and presentations
Pre-employment checks and declarations:
Your employment is conditional upon the successful completion of all pre-employment or background checks required for the role in terms satisfactory to the University. Also, to meet the University’s obligations under the National Higher Education Code to Prevent and Eliminate Gender-Based Violence you will be asked to declare if you have been investigated for, or found to engaged in, sexual harm or gender-based violence in the course of previous employment or in a legal process. Similarly, your ongoing employment is conditional upon the satisfactory maintenance of all relevant clearances and background check requirements. If you do not meet these conditions, the University may take any necessary step, including the termination of your employment.
EEO statement:
At the University of Sydney, our shared values are trust, accountability and excellence and we strive to be a place where everyone can thrive. We are committed to creating a University community that thrives through diversity and reflects the wider community that we serve. We deliver on this through our commitment to diversity and inclusion, evidenced by our people and culture programs, as well as key strategies to increase participation and support the careers of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander People, women, people living with a disability, people from culturally and linguistically diverse backgrounds, and those who identify as LGBTQIA+. We welcome applications from candidates from all backgrounds. We are proud to be recognised as an Australian Workplace Equality Index (AWEI) Platinum Employer.
The University reserves the right not to proceed with any appointment. Applications Close Sunday 29 November 2026 11:59 PM.
Postdoctoral Research Associate in Activity on the Sun and Solar-like Stars in Camperdown employer: University of Sydney
The University of Sydney is an exceptional employer, particularly for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander individuals, offering a supportive and culturally safe environment that fosters professional growth and community engagement. With generous benefits such as cultural leave, flexible working arrangements, and access to Indigenous professional development programs, employees are empowered to contribute meaningfully to the advancement of Indigenous health education. Joining this prestigious institution means being part of a dedicated community committed to improving health outcomes and embedding First Nations perspectives into the curriculum.
