Researcher in Astro Physics - Hiring in process/Finished, not possible to apply

The position is located at the Division of Astrophysics, Department of Physics, Lund University, within Professor Nils Ryde’s research group. The successful candidate will conduct advanced and independent research in Galactic archaeology using precision stellar spectroscopy in the near-infrared. The overarching goal is to improve our understanding of the physical processes driving the evolution of the Galactic Centre, particularly its star formation history. The required chemo-dynamical studies will yield insights into the chemical enrichment history and the formation and evolution of different stellar components and populations in the Milky Way. The researcher will lead the scientific analysis of data from the IGRINS spectrograph and develop precision analysis methods for upcoming data from VLT/MOONS at ESO. The first MOONS data are expected in 2026. The research will focus on stellar populations obscured by interstellar dust, such as those in the Galactic Centre, but will also address more general studies of the cosmic origin of elements. The project is funded by the Swedish Research Council (Vetenskapsrådet).

Work duties and responsibilities

The main duties of this position are to conduct research.

The researcher will lead the efforts within the project and work independently to:

• further develop existing spectroscopic methods for determining stellar parameters.
• establish new methods for precise abundance determinations in high-resolution near-infrared spectra, based on atomic transition studies.
• perform high-quality analyses of data from Gemini/IGRINS and VLT/MOONS.

The analysis must be carried out with great care to reach the highest possible level of precision and accuracy. The researcher will also have some freedom to develop the scientific direction depending on project progress and interests.

The position includes:

Publishing research results in peer-reviewed journals. Presenting results at international conferences and workshops. Participating in scientific meetings and collaborations, both within Lund and internationally. Occasional travel; a travel budget is available, but the researcher is also expected to apply for travel grants from external sources such as learned societies and research councils. Contributing to the group’s daily scientific activities and to joint discussions and meetings within the astrophysics division.

Specific duties include:

• Analysis and determination of atomic transitions in the near-infrared spectral range.
• Development of advanced spectroscopic methods.
• Scientific analysis of IGRINS and MOONS spectroscopic data.
• Training and supervision of bachelor’s and master’s students in stellar spectroscopy.
• Active collaboration within the ISA research group at the Division of Astrophysics.

Qualification requirements

• A PhD within in astrophysics or a closely related field, with a dissertation related to stellar astrophysics and Galactic archaeology.
• Proven ability to develop and conduct high-quality independent research.
• Specialization in Galactic archaeology and stellar spectroscopy (optical or near-infrared).
• Documented independence and strong collaborative skills.

Assessment criteria and other qualifications

Experience and knowledge in:

• Demonstrated experience in stellar spectroscopic analysis at both low and high resolution in the near-IR, specifically using the SME (Spectroscopy Made Easy) program.
• Experience participating in large international astronomical collaborations (e.g. the Pristine Survey, Gaia-ESO Survey).
• Expertise in high-precision spectroscopy of K- and M-type giants, especially using IGRINS data.
• Proficiency in Python, IDL, TOPCAT, and other relevant programming languages.
• Experience presenting research at international conferences and seminars.

Terms of employment

This position is limited to 6 months and full-time with start date 2026-01-01 but no later than 2026-03-01. 

Instructions on how to apply

Applications shall be written in English and be compiled into a PDF-file containing:

• Résumé/CV, including a list of publications.
• A general description of past research and future research interests (no more than two pages).
• Copy of the doctoral degree certificate, and other certificates/grades that you wish to be considered. 

Welcome to apply!