H2020 SPACE XMM2ATHENA postdoctoral position

NOA/IAASARS, ATHENS, GREECE

Applications are invited for a post-doctoral position at the Institute of Astronomy Astrophysics Space Applications and Remote Sensing (IAASARS) of the National Observatory of Athens (NOA). The successful applicant will closely collaborate with the X-ray group of the IAASARS (Dr. Akylas, Dr. Georgantopoulos, Dr. Georgakakis) to develop novel tools, largely based on Artificial Intelligence algorithms, that will generate value-added products (e.g. photometric redshifts, upper limits) for the 4XMM serendipitous source catalogue. The scientific exploitation of these products will also be part of the contract. 

The position is funded by the EU H2020 XMM2ATHENA project. It brings together 9 European nodes with extensive expertise in high energy astrophysics, including members of the XMM-Newton and Athena Science ground segments, to develop innovative X-ray analysis methods and algorithms. These will be tested on existing XMM-Newton data and will form the basis for the Athena data analysis software, currently at the beginning of the developmental phase. 

Preferred qualifications include  a PhD in Astronomy, Astrophysics or related field by the start date as well as experience in (i) high energy astrophysics, (ii) programming of complex algorithms with emphasis on machine/deep learning, (iii) handling of large multiwavelength datasets and (iv) population studies of extragalactic sources.

The post is for 18 months, starting in early 2022. For informal inquiries please contact Dr. Thanassis Akylas (aakylas@noa.gr).

Interested candidates can apply via email by sending a curriculum vitae, a summary of research interests (limited to 3 pages) and a list of publications (all as pdf files) to the secretary m.vasilaki@noa.gr before Oct. 15th  2021. Please also arrange for two letters of reference to be sent to the same email address by the above deadline. NOA is an equal-opportunity employer. We encourage applications from women and minorities.

Additional Benefits: Funding for conference and collaboration traveling, personal equipment and publication costs is available. The position includes full access to the Greek healthcare system and pension fund.