Postdoc position in Theoretical Modelling of Bright and Fast Radio Transients

University of Amsterdam • Netherlands, Netherlands • €3.55k - €5.54k / month • 3w ago

Join us!

We are looking for a candidate to fill an open postdoctoral position in the group of Dr. Antonia Rowlinson, funded by the ERC Consolidator Grant “QuickBlitz”.

What are you going to do

The project is fully funded for 36 months, with a planned start date as soon as possible. The goal of this project is to conduct theoretical modelling and interpretation of bright and fast radio transients, as detected by low frequency radio telescopes such as LOFAR (the LOw Frequency ARray). We are finding increasing numbers of radio transients with durations from seconds to minutes, such as the recently identified population of Long Period Radio Transients (LPTs). Our group identified the first progenitor of one of these systems, a white dwarf and M dwarf binary system, though it remains unclear if this can explain the full population of LPTs. It also remains unclear what the emission mechanisms are for these radio transients. Given their brightness and short duration, the sources producing this emission are very likely coherent and/or highly relativistic. This position aims to push forward our understanding of these mysterious sources by developing novel theoretical models of different progenitor systems, such as binary systems containing at least one compact source.

Through the QuickBlitz team, we will detect more fast and bright transients using imaging observations conducted by LOFAR2.0, a significantly upgraded LOFAR. In addition to standard LOFAR2.0 observations, the QuickBlitz team are building a new instrument for LOFAR2.0, AARTFAAC2.0, that can produce whole visible sky images every second to search for the most extreme and rarest radio transients. You will work closely with the observers in our team to model and interpret our discoveries.

Tasks and responsibilities:

You will develop novel models of coherent radio outbursts that can be tested by observational data.
You will use your theoretical expertise to model and interpret radio transients detected by the QuickBlitz team.
You will conduct research, communicate results via peer-reviewed publication and at conferences.
You will be a proactive member of the research group and have the opportunity to co-advise projects of MSc and BSc students.
You will contribute to creating an open, safe and inclusive working environment.

Your profile

A PhD in physics, astronomy or a related field completed upon your arrival
A committed researcher, demonstrated by previous research experience, publications and presentations at international conferences.
Experience in theoretical modelling of coherent emission mechanisms.
Excellent communication and writing skills in English.
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 12 months, and the possibility to be extended for another 24 months upon satisfactory performance. The preferred starting date is flexible, but the latest in Autumn 2026. The gross monthly salary, based on 38 hours per week and dependent on relevant experience, ranges between €3,546 to €5,538 (scale 10). This does not include 8% holiday allowance and 8.3% year-end allowance. The Researcher 4 are applicable. The Collective Labour Agreement of Universities of the Netherlands 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 with100+ 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;

Where you will work

The University of Amsterdam is the Netherlands' largest university, offering the widest range of academic programs. 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 Faculty of Science 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, from elementary particles to the birth of the universe to the functioning of the brain. The Anton Pannekoek Institute for Astronomy (API) 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 working at the University of Amsterdam.

Are you interested in Fast Radio Transients? Then this Postdoctoral position is for you.

Join us!

We are looking for a candidate to fill an open postdoctoral position in the group of Dr. Antonia Rowlinson, funded by the ERC Consolidator Grant “QuickBlitz”.

What are you going to do

Tasks and responsibilities:

You will develop novel models of coherent radio outbursts that can be tested by observational data.
You will use your theoretical expertise to model and interpret radio transients detected by the QuickBlitz team.
You will conduct research, communicate results via peer-reviewed publication and at conferences.
You will be a proactive member of the research group and have the opportunity to co-advise projects of MSc and BSc students.
You will contribute to creating an open, safe and inclusive working environment.

Your profile

A PhD in physics, astronomy or a related field completed upon your arrival
A committed researcher, demonstrated by previous research experience, publications and presentations at international conferences.
Experience in theoretical modelling of coherent emission mechanisms.
Excellent communication and writing skills in English.
The ability to work both independently and collaboratively in a multidisciplinary environment.

Our offer

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 with200+ 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;

Where you will work

Want to know more about our organisation? Read more about working at the University of Amsterdam.

If you feel the profile fits you, and you are interested in the job, we look forward to receiving your application. We accept applications until and including 15-3-2026.

If you have any questions or require additional information, please contact:

Dr. Antonia Rowlinson, email: B.A.Rowlinson@uva.nl

Applications should include the following information:

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 research statement, which describes your research and scientific interests (up to 2 pages);
Two letters of reference to be sent via email to B.A.Rowlinson@uva.nl

A knowledge security check can be part of the selection procedure.
(for details: national knowledge security guidelines)

Only complete applications received within the response period via the link below will be considered.

The interviews will be held in the week of 23 March 2026.

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