Applications are invited for a PhD position for three years in the newly
established research group ‘Radio lenses’ led by Dr. Olaf Wucknitz at the
‘AIfA’ in Bonn. This group is funded by the German Science Foundation
(DFG) in the Emmy Noether programme and will work one several aspects of
utilising the new generation of radio telescopes for gravitational lens
research. This includes preparations for using LOFAR surveys for lens
searches, detailed observations of known lenses with the (E)VLA and
(e-)MERLIN, and the development and improvement of deconvolution and lens
modelling methods. Main goal of the project is to use lenses (especially
with extended sources) to obtain information about the mass structure and
evolution of galaxies at medium and high redshifts.

The PhD project will consist of carrying out and reducing own observations
as well as analysing archived interferometric radio data for lens
modelling purposes. Participation in other parts of the ‘Radio lenses’
project is also expected and will be arranged according to the interests
of the candidate.

The ideal applicant will have a good background in astrophysics and a
special interest in the fields of gravitational lensing and/or radio
interferometry. Experience in at least one of these fields and good
computing skills are a prerequisite for a successful application. The
degree of a Diplom, MSc or equivalent in physics or astronomy is required
for this position.

The AIfA (http://www.astro.uni-bonn.de/) hosts strong groups working on
cosmology, extragalactic astronomy and gravitational lenses, galaxy
clusters, radio astronomy, and other fields. A close cooperation will also
be established with the neighbouring ‘Max-Planck-Institut fuer
Radioastronomie’ (http://www.mpifr-bonn.mpg.de/). The ‘International Max
Planck Research School (IMPRS) for Radio and Infrared Astronomy at the
Universities of Bonn and Cologne’ (http://www.mpifr.de/IMPRS/) offers
additional opportunities.

Applications sent before the deadline 1 June 2007 will receive full
consideration. Later applications may be accepted until the position is
filled. Payment is according to the standard German civil service rate
TVOED 13/2, equivalent to BAT IIa/2. Earliest starting date is 1 August
2007, the appointment is limited to three years. Applications including
curriculum vitae, copies of relevant university degrees, preferred
starting date, and a description of experience and research interests
should be sent to the address below. Submission by email is welcome.
Please arrange for at least one letter of recommendation to be sent to the
same address.

Dr. Olaf Wucknitz
Joint Institute for VLBI in Europe
Postbus 2
7990AA Dwingeloo
Netherlands

email: wucknitz (at) jive.nl
http://www.jive.nl/~wucknitz/

Additional information is available on request.

Argelander-Institut fuer Astronomie (AIfA), Universitaet Bonn, Germany
http://www.astro.uni-bonn.de/

PDF version of this announcement:
http://www.jive.nl/~wucknitz/emmy/phd1.pdf

“Radio lenses” homepage:
http://www.jive.nl/~wucknitz/emmy/

starting date: 1 August 2007, application deadline: 1 June 2007