Postdoctoral position in Modelling Titan’s atmosphere

Job title:

Postdoctoral position in Modelling Titan’s atmosphere

Company:

University of Amsterdam

Job description

Job descriptionApplications are invited for a postdoctoral (PD) position at the Anton Pannekoek Institute for Astronomy (API) at the University of Amsterdam Netherlands (UvA) to work with assistant professor Alessandra Candian on modelling hydrocarbon evolution on Titan’s atmosphere.Join us!
Titan, Saturn’s largest moon, is one of the most Earth-like bodies in the Solar System. Its dense, nitrogen-rich atmosphere, seasonal variations, and hydrocarbon-based hydrological cycle make it a prime candidate for exploring the chemical precursors of life. Despite significant advancements thanks to Cassini-Huygens mission, key questions remain unanswered, such as How complex is the chemistry in Titan’s atmosphere? Are there precursors to biomolecules among the products of this chemistry?In the upper atmosphere of Titan photons coming from the Sun initiates a rich chemistry leading to the formation of hydrocarbon clouds and of haze – polymer-like particles originating from the growth and condensation of these hydrocarbons.This project aims to address these questions by creating a detailed photochemical model of Titan’s atmosphere. The model will incorporate new mechanisms for the formation of large hydrocarbons, such as PAHs and nitrile heterocycles, based on the latest results from experiments and quantum chemistry calculations. The results of the models will be compared with available data from Cassini and other remote sensing mission.What are you going to do?

• Develop a photochemical model for NPAH/PAH formation informed by the literature
• Perform a sensitivity analysis to propose new reactions to be studied experimentally or computationally
• Identify the most abundantly produced NPAHs/PAHs as potential targets for future observations
• Devise a research plan together with your advisor, conduct research, and publish research results in the area of planetary science
• Be a proactive member of the research group and have the opportunity to co-advise research projects of MSc and BSc students
• Contribute to creating an open, safe and inclusive working environment.

Your profile

• A Ph.D. in planetary science, astronomy, atmospheric chemistry, astrobiology, or a related field completed upon your arrival
• A committed researcher, demonstrated by previous research experiences publications and presentations at international conferences
• Experience with photochemical or atmospheric modeling
• Excellent communication skills
• The ability to work both independently and collaboratively in a multidisciplinary environment.

Our offer
We offer a temporary employment contract for 38 hours per week for a period of 18 months, to be started in March 2025, and the possibility to be extended for another 12 months upon satisfactory performance.The gross monthly salary, based on 38 hours per week and dependent on relevant experience, ranges between € 3,345 to € 5,278 (scale 10) .This does not include 8% holiday allowance and 8,3% year-end allowance. The UFO profile Onderzoekers is applicable. A favourable tax agreement, the ‘30% ruling’, may apply to non-Dutch applicants. The is applicable.Besides the salary and a vibrant and stimulating environment at Science Park we offer you multiple fringe benefits:

• 232 holiday hours per year (based on fulltime) and extra holidays between Christmas and 1 January;
• multiple courses to follow from our Teaching and Learning Centre;
• multiple courses on topics such as leadership for academic staff;
• multiple courses on topics such as time management, handling stress and an online learning platform with 100+ different courses;
• 7 weeks birth leave (partner leave) with 100% salary;
• partly paid parental leave;
• the possibility to set up a workplace at home;
• a pension at ABP for which UvA pays two third part of the contribution;
• the possibility to follow courses to learn Dutch;

Are you curious to read more about our extensive package of secondary employment benefits, take a look .About us
The is the Netherlands’ largest university, offering the widest range of academic programmes. At the UvA, 30,000 students, 6,000 staff members and 3,000 PhD candidates study and work in a diverse range of fields, connected by a culture of curiosity.The has a student body of around 8,000, as well as 1,800 members of staff working in education, research or support services. Researchers and students at the Faculty of Science are fascinated by every aspect of how the world works, be it elementary particles, the birth of the universe or the functioning of the brain.The furthers research, teaching and public understanding of astronomy. It conducts astronomical research and trains astronomers from bachelor to postdoctoral level, aiming at world-leading levels and activities.Want to know more about our organisation? Read more about the University of Amsterdam.Any questions?
Do you have any questions or do you require additional information? Please contact:Alessandra Candian, Assistant Professor,Job application
If you feel the profile fits you, and you are interested in the job, we look forward to receiving your application. You can apply online via the button below. We accept applications until and including 10 February 2025.Applications should include the following information (all files including your cv should be submitted in one single pdf file):

• a detailed CV including the months (not just years) when referring to your education and work experience;
• a list of publications, conference proceedings, and presentations;
• a letter of motivation (up to 1 page);
• a research statement, which describes past and current research and your scientific interests (up to 1 page);
• two letters of reference to be sent via email to

.A knowledge security check can be part of the selection procedure – (for details: ).Only complete applications received within the response period via the link below will be considered.The interviews will be held in the course of February 2025.The UvA is an equal-opportunity employer. We prioritise diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for everyone. We value a spirit of enquiry and perseverance, provide the space to keep asking questions, and promote a culture of curiosity and creativity.If you encounter Error GBB451, reach out to our directly. They will gladly help you continue your application.No agencies please.

Expected salary

€3345 – 5278 per month

Location

Amsterdam, Noord-Holland

Job date

Tue, 14 Jan 2025 23:36:47 GMT

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