
Research Associate / Postdoctoral Fellow in Astroparticle Physics
- Christchurch
- Contract
- Full-time
Located in Ōtautahi | Christchurch, Aotearoa | New Zealand
- Full-time 37.5 hours per week (1.0 FTE)
- Fixed term position (3 years)
As part of the research project "Revealing the Secrets of High-Energy Galactic Particle Accelerators with Multi-messenger and Multi-Wavelength Observations," funded under the Marsden Scheme we have an exciting opportunity for a Postdoctoral Fellow to join Professor Jenni Adams' research team in the School of Physical and Chemical Sciences (SPCS). The University of Canterbury is a long-standing member of the and this research project is a joint collaboration with the Adelaide University astroparticle group with links to HESS and Australian radio telescopes.This project will investigate extreme environments in the Milky Way, combining neutrino, gamma-ray and radio observations to elucidate the origins of our Galaxy's high-energy cosmic rays.You will be an integral part of the research team, focusing on:
- Developing an IceCube data selection optimized for Galactic plane neutrino source searches.
- Contributing to the development and application of statistical and machine learning techniques to enhance source detection sensitivity.
- Multimessenger modelling and interpretation of Galactic sources.
We are looking for someone with excellent interpersonal, intercultural, research, and organisational skills. In addition, we are interested in someone who is creative, self-motivated, and has a strong drive to push boundaries and deliver impactful results.To be successful in this role you will have a PhD in Physics or Astronomy with a strong research background in:
- Observational astrophysics with neutrino and/or gamma-ray telescopes
- Statistical methods and data analysis.
- Computer programming and software development.
The Te Kura Matū School of Physical and Chemical Sciences is a thriving community with a legacy spanning 150 years of academic excellence. Amongst the largest Schools within the University, we are driven by our collective commitment to search for innovative solutions that address the problems and challenges both within New Zealand and the World.The School offers a spectrum of majors including Astronomy, Physics, Chemistry, Biochemistry, Medicinal Chemistry, and Environmental Sciences. Our research endeavours are channelled through five central themes: Sustainability and the Environment, New Materials, Nanotechnology and Laser Physics, Energy and Storage, and Astronomy and Astrophysics, as well as Human, Animal, and Plant Health.By joining our School, you will be a part of pioneering initiatives that shape the future of scientific discovery and leave an indelible mark on the world.For more information about our team, please visit us atNgā Painga o UC | Why UC
Ngā Uara | Our Values of manaakitanga, whanaungatanga and tiakitanga guide our decisions and behaviour and provide a roadmap for how we do things at UC, affirming our commitment to pastoral care and support for our ākonga and staff. They challenge and inspire us to be the best we can, and make UC a great place to work and study. For more info on Ngā Uara | Our Values visit us here:We are committed to accessible higher education, service to the community and the encouragement of talent without barriers of distance, wealth, class, gender or ethnicity. The University explicitly aims to produce graduates and support staff who are engaged with their communities, empowered to act for good and determined to make a difference in the world.We offer a range of fantastic benefits including flexible work practices, study opportunities and generous superannuation and leave provisions. For more information, please visit us: For more information about Te Whare Wānanga o Waitaha | University of Canterbury, please visitThe closing date for this position is: 13 September 2025 (midnight, NZ time)
Please note, applications will be reviewed as they are received, and interviews may take place before the close date.Pēhea te tono mai | How You ApplyApplications for this position must be submitted on our and should include:
- A cover letter detailing your motivation in applying for the position and your relevant research skills and experience
- A resume, which includes contact details for two nominated referees.