Call for applications: PhD studentship(s) in Groningen

[Michael Biehl]

Applications are invited for a 4-year PhD project in the area of high angular
resolution radio astronomy and image processing at the Kapteyn
Astronomical Institute and the Johann Bernoulli Institute, University of
Groningen. The student will work jointly with Assistant Prof. John McKean
and Prof. Michiel Biehl on the analysis of high angular resolution radio
imaging from the Low Frequency Array (LOFAR). The aim of the project is to
develop sophisticated calibration and imaging methods that connect
astronomy and complex data systems, as part of a project on advanced
instrumentation and big data.
The student will use novel computing science methods to analyse data from
the LOFAR radio interferometer and will develop new techniques for the
automated and robust analysis of the data taken with the International LOFAR
Telescope, which includes combining signals from the stations both within the
Netherlands and throughout Europe. This data stream will be used to
investigate the low energy radiation from supermassive black holes at the
highest possible angular resolution to investigate particle acceleration and
energetics in the Universe’s largest natural particle accelerators. This will be
done by combining the resolving power of LOFAR and the added
magnification provided by gravitational lensing to study black hole physics at
redshifts where the active phase from such objects is expected to peak, and
have the largest influence on the build-up of the stellar host galaxy. The
computing science will involve developing automated methods for identifying
such objects from the LOFAR all-sky surveys data. As part of the project, the
student will spend time at the Netherlands Institute for Radio Astronomy
(ASTRON), which operates LOFAR and where Assistant Prof. McKean also
holds a joint position.
This project is one of eighteen possible projects that are available as part of
the Data Science and System Complexity (DSSC) initiative, which currently
has 10 PhD positions co-funded through a Marie Sklodowska Curie COFUND
action under the European Commission’s Horizon 2020 Work Programme.
The DSSC aims to train highly skilled graduates who will use state-of-the-art
data methodology to understand the behaviour of complex systems and who
can handle data and complexity problems for society at large.
For more information about the DSSC Doctoral Programme and the
application procedure, please see,
http://www.rug.nl/research/fse/themes/dssc/cofund/application/
The review of applications will begin on 15 July 2017, but interested
candidates are advised to contact Assistant Prof. John McKean
(mck...@astro.rug.nl) and Prof. Michael Biehl (m.b...@rug.nl) to discuss
their application by 8 July 2017.