Postdoctoral Research Assistant in Cosmology Full-time

Postdoctoral Research Assistant in Cosmology

Physics (Astrophysics), University of Oxford and Kavli Institute for the Physics and Mathematics of the Universe, University of Tokyo.

Applications are invited for a Postdoctoral Research Assistant in Cosmology. Cosmology is in a golden era with multi-wavelength surveys spanning the entire electromagnetic spectrum and beyond with gravitational waves. This is a joint position between the University of Oxford and Kavli Institute for the Physics and Mathematics of the Universe, University of Tokyo, structured such that the first 18 months of this position will be based in Oxford, with Dr Will Coulton, and the second 18 months at IPMU, with Dr Leander Thiele. Oxford hosts a large cosmology group with expertise in theoretical, observational, and numerical cosmology.

The successful candidate will lead the development of realistic simulations of a galaxy, lensing, X-ray and CMB secondary observables. This will be built on the backlight simulations, a new large suite of cosmological simulations designed for multiwavelength cosmological modelling. Once in hand, the candidate will use the simulations to explore novel analysis methods with the goal of applying them to data. Collaborative endeavors with members of the IPMU and Oxford groups is highly encouraged. You will have the opportunity to teach.

Applicants should have a PhD (or close to completion) in Physics or a related field. Previous experience in cosmological simulations, analysis of cosmic microwave background and/or large-scale structure datasets, machine learning methods applied to cosmology, or theoretical modeling of cosmological observables will be an advantage.

The expected IPMU salary is estimated to be 8,400,000 yen per annum, plus commuting and social security benefits.

Please direct enquiries about the role to Dr William Coulton (wrc27@cam.ac.uk) and Dr Leander Thiele (leander.thiele@ipmu.jp).

The post is full time and fixed term for 3 years. The closing date for applications is noon GMT, 20 February 2026 can be guaranteed full consideration.

As part of the online application, you will be asked to upload a CV and a supporting statement. The supporting statement must explain how you meet each of the selection criteria for the post using examples of your skills and experience. This may include experience gained in employment, education, or during career breaks (such as time out to care for dependents) and details of two referees as part of your online application. Your referees should be asked to send their letters, before the application deadline, to Leanne O'Donnell (leanne.odonnell@physics.ox.ac.uk) by the closing date.