PostDoc on Fast Optical variability of Neutron Stars

Organisation/Company: INAF Osservatorio Astronomico di Roma Research Field: Astronomy » Astrophysics Researcher Profile: Recognised Researcher (R2) Positions: Postdoc Positions Country: Italy Application Deadline: 17 Jan 2025 - 23:59 (Europe/Rome) Type of Contract: Temporary Job Status: Full-time Is the job funded through the EU Research Framework Programme? Not funded by a EU programme Is the Job related to staff position within a Research Infrastructure? No Offer Description Title: High Time resolution observations of compact objects in the optical band The successful applicant will analyse and interpret observations of quickly variable neutron stars in Galactic binary systems, mainly focusing on the data obtained with the fast optical photometer SiFAP2, an instrument permanently mounted at the Galileo Telescope and managed by our group. The investigation will mainly aim at (but not be restricted to) the search and characterisation of fast variability (e.g. optical/UV pulsations) from millisecond pulsars to measure the physical properties of these neutron stars. Non-millisecond-pulsar-experts are also highly encouraged to apply. Project: Taking the optical pulse of the quickest spinning Neutron Stars: a pilot exploratory study (SPES) - PI: A. Papitto - Fondazione Cariplo/CDP (ref. 2023-2560) The appointment will be for two years, with the possibility of an extension based on the continued availability of funding and performance. The gross salary is 28k€ (equivalent to 2.1k€/month after taxes). Key responsibilities: Study of the temporal and spectral variability of Galactic binary systems hosting a compact object; Analysis and interpretation of high-time resolution observations performed by the fast-optical photometer SiFAP2; Search and characterization of coherent signals from millisecond pulsars to measure the physical properties of quickly spinning neutron stars; Calibration and observations with the optical high-time resolution photo-polarimeter e-SiFAP. Expected starting date: spring 2025 (to be negotiated with the successful applicant). Applications should be sent by email strictly before 2025 January 17th at 11:59 pm CET to the address inafoaromapcert.postecert.it , with the subject “High Time resolution observations of compact objects in the optical band”. Please also arrange to send a brief (1 page) description of research interests and two recommendation letters to the same address above. All qualified applicants are encouraged to apply, especially those from underrepresented groups. Please contact Dr. Alessandro Papitto ( alessandro.papittoinaf.it ) for informal inquiries. Minimum Qualifications: PhD in Physics or Astronomy or equivalent, issued by a Higher Education Institute or University (including foreign); or Master degree (or 2nd level Laurea degree, if issued by an Italian University) in Physics or Astronomy or equivalent qualification, issued by a Higher Education Institute or University (including foreign), together with at least three years of documented experience in scientific activities or technology after graduation. The equivalence will be established by the selection board according to criteria defined for the purposes of the selection procedure. Selection process J-18808-Ljbffr

Location: monte-porzio-catone, IT

Posted Date: 1/19/2025