Associate Professor Extreme Computing in Physics & Astronomy

Do you have a passion for physics or astrophysics research and apply extreme computing techniques to explore the universe from the smallest to the largest scales? And can you share your knowledge with clarity and enthusiasm? Then we have a great opportunity for you.

The University of Southampton is a unique place in which to explore what you are capable of: as one of the world’s top universities, we know what it takes to create an exceptional student experience. Our School of Physics & Astronomy is one of the UK’s top physics departments, delivering exceptional academic courses underpinned by a dynamic culture of innovation and research. We take particular pride in the School’s uniquely collaborative team spirit, in which our colleagues support one another in their endeavours.

We are looking for someone who can support and build our research and education programmes in theoretical physics and/or astrophysics with a focus on computational applications. This can range from developing simulations of the physics of the universe on small or large scales to modelling physical processes or applying advanced computing techniques to large/complex data sets to reveal the underlying physical structure. Current examples of computing expertise in Physics and Astronomy include Lattice Gauge Theory, Quantum Simulations of QFT, radiation hydrodynamical/radiative transfer simulations, machine learning/AI for large-scale sky surveys, and galactic-scale population synthesis modelling.

To make the most of this unique opportunity, you will need to have a PhD in Physics or a related field, or have an equivalent and relevant professional qualification. Your research track-record will reflect your impressive international reputation, and you will be passionate about working in partnership with the team to share expertise. While some teaching experience would be useful, it is more important that you have great communication skills with the ability to engage students in their learning, be that through group sessions or one-to-one. As long as you can bring a real passion for the field to our School, we will help you develop your presentation skills.

In turn, we are committed to all of our staff achieving a healthy work-life balance, with flexible working hours (including part time) and onsite childcare facilities. We are committed to tackling gender inequality and hold an Athena SWAN silver award, and are determined to address the underrepresentation of women in Physics as recognised by our Project Juno Champion status. With a generous benefits package that includes a contributory pension scheme, competitive holiday allowance, subsidised health and fitness facilities, a cycle-to-work scheme and a range of discounts, this is a place where you are sure to excel.

To take this fascinating next step in your career, informal enquiries to our Head of the School, Professor Sebastian (Seb) Hoenig, [email protected] , are very welcome.

This position is being offered on a full-time, permanent basis.

When applying please upload the following documents:

(1) CV and publication list;

(2) A statement outlining your research track record in extreme computing and future vision;

(3) A statement outlining your experience of teaching or tutoring students, at undergraduate and/or postgraduate level;

Please also provide the contact details for three letters of reference. References will only be requested after shortlisting.

As a university we aim to create an environment where everyone can thrive and are proactive in fostering a culture of inclusion, respect and equality of opportunity. We believe that we can only truly meet our objectives if we are reflective of society, so we are passionate about creating a working environment in which you are free to bring your whole self to work. With a generous holiday allowance as well as additional university closure days we are committed to supporting our staff and students and open to a flexible working approach.

Apply by midnight on Wednesday 03 January 2024 when application review will begin. For assistance contact Recruitment on +44(0)2380 592750 or [email protected]  quoting the job reference 2520323WF.