The Institute of Astronomy, University of Cambridge, (West Cambridge), wishes to appoint 1, or 2, University Assistant or Associate Professors. The research profile of the Institute spans an extensive range of astrophysics, with internationally-recognised programs in exoplanetary and circumstellar disc science, stellar astrophysics, near field cosmology, time domain studies, instrumentation, extragalactic astronomy, high energy astrophysics, and cosmology. A hallmark of recent developments has been increased emphasis on interdisciplinarity, e.g. in the field of exoplanetary studies where affiliation with the Leverhulme Centre for Life in the Universe provides a framework for collaborations beyond the traditional boundaries of astronomical research and where the Institute is hosting an innovative new MPhil on. Planetary Science and Life in the Universe. At the same time, the Institute jointly administers the Kavli Institute for Cosmology, Cambridge which plays a key role in fostering collaborations with the other astronomical departments in the University (the Department of Physics (Cavendish Astrophysics) and the Department of Applied Mathematics and Theoretical Physics). Joint ventures in this area include a new MPhil in Data Intensive Science and an ambition to expand the University's research in gravitational waves. A further resource within the Institute is the Cambridge Astronomical Survey Unit which is a major data processing centre for a broad range of ground based and space projects.

We are seeking candidates from any field of astronomy to strengthen, or complement, the Institute's current research interests. The successful applicant will have a PhD in Astronomy or a related field and a record of excellence in research, a commitment to teaching astronomy and astrophysics at advanced undergraduate and postgraduate levels, and a willingness to contribute to the future development of the Institute.

The position is available from 1 October 2024 or as soon as possible thereafter. Appointment will be made at an appropriate point on the scale for University Assistant or Associate Professors. Appointment as an Assistant Professor will normally be for a probationary period of five years, with amendment to Associate Professor, following successful completion of probation, with appointment to the retiring age thereafter, subject to satisfactory performance. Appointment as Associate Professor will typically require a demonstrable history of exceptional achievement.

The University of Cambridge thrives on staff and student diversity. The Institute particularly welcomes applications from women/candidates from a BME background as they are currently under-represented. We have an active Equality, Diversity and Inclusion Committee which continually works to further the aims of the Athena SWAN charter. The University has a number of family-friendly policies and initiatives, including a Career Support Fund, childcare costs support, university workplace nurseries, university holiday pay- schemes, and a shared parental-leave policy.