Postdoctoral Fellow / Research Fellow – Adaptive Optics

About the role

The Research School of Astronomy and Astrophysics (RSAA) at the Australian National University is seeking a Postdoctoral Fellow / Research Fellow to undertake research and instrumentation development in Laser Guide Star Adaptive Optics. The work focuses on the ULTIMATE Ground Layer Adaptive Optics (GLAO) system for the Subaru Telescope and the Laser Tomography Adaptive Optics (LTAO) system for the Giant Magellan Telescope. The position is full-time, fixed term (up to 3 years), at academic level A or B, with a salary package of $91,546 to $141,317 per year plus 17% superannuation.

Key responsibilities

• Design, develop, integrate and test advanced adaptive optics instrumentation, working with ANU researchers and engineers and with national and international partners.
• Carry out independent and collaborative research, publish and disseminate results.
• Develop instrumentation, supervise students and take part in outreach.
• Help shape new research directions and contribute to external funding.

Required profile

• PhD in physics, astronomy, engineering or a related discipline.
• Demonstrated expertise in adaptive optics and instrumentation development, such as Laser Guide Star Adaptive Optics, wavefront sensing or real-time computing.
• Strong research record shown through peer-reviewed publications and collaboration.
• Experience designing, developing, fielding or operating adaptive optics systems on large astronomical telescopes is highly valued.
• Knowledge of project management and systems engineering; effective communicator and collaborative team member who can supervise students and work across disciplines.

To apply, candidates must upload a statement addressing the selection criteria and a current CV with at least three referees, plus any other documents requested. Mandatory pre-employment declarations and background checks apply to the selected candidate.