Postdoctoral Research Associate in Supernova Cosmology
Join an STFC-funded project at Lancaster University to build low-redshift supernova samples and measure dark energy.
Best for:Best for researchers with a background in cosmology, observational astrophysics, and advanced Python programming.
Overview
Lancaster University's School of Physics and Astronomy invites applications for a Postdoctoral Research Associate to contribute to a cutting-edge project in supernova cosmology. Working alongside Dr Mathew Smith, the appointee will focus on developing simulation and cosmological inference frameworks for the Zwicky Transient Facility and investigating environmental biases in Type Ia supernovae. The role offers collaboration within the ZTF Collaboration and Lancaster's Observational Astrophysics group, engaging with diverse astrophysical research topics. The successful candidate is expected to deliver a low-redshift anchor to support upcoming major legacy surveys.
What you'll do
- Develop a robust simulation and cosmological inference framework for the Zwicky Transient Facility (ZTF) survey
- Measure and model environmental biases and analyze their interactions with survey selection effects
- Build an independent, homogeneous, low-redshift sample of Type Ia supernovae (SNeIa)
- Combine low-redshift datasets with high-redshift measurements from surveys such as the Dark Energy Survey and the Vera Rubin Observatory to constrain the equation-of-state of dark energy
- Contribute to the goals of the ZTF Collaboration and participate in the wider Observational Astrophysics group research activities
- Prepare research results for publication in peer-reviewed scientific journals and present findings at collaboration meetings and conferences
Requirements
Degree required: PhD (or near completion) in astrophysics, physics, cosmology or a related field
Language: English; excellent communication skills required
Instruction: English
Publications: Record of research output commensurate with career stage
- Strong scientific programming skills in Python
- Research experience in supernova cosmology, statistical analysis, systematic-uncertainty analysis, or large-scale survey science
- Demonstrated ability to collaborate effectively within a research team and communicate scientific results clearly
- Must be eligible to work in the UK
Funding & terms
How to apply
Deadline: 2026-10-30 (Europe/London)
Applicants must complete the online application process through the Lancaster University portal, providing a curriculum vitae, a publication list, and a detailed research statement.
- CV
- Publication list
- Research statement
Contact
Mathew Smith· Project Supervisor
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