The Department of Physics of the University of Trieste invites applications for a post-doctoral research position in the field of cosmological simulations of galaxy clusters and low-redshift IGM. The research project will be carried out in the framework of the PRIN-2012 project "Evolution of Cosmic Baryons" (PI Stefano Borgani) funded by the Italian Ministry of Research. It will focus on the development and analysis of high-resolution hydrodynamical simulations aimed at studying clusters of galaxies and the interaction between galaxy formation and the properties of the low-redshift IGM. The successful candidate will work with the project PI and will collaborate with the group of Numerical Cosmology at the Department of Physics and at INAF-Astronomical Observatory of Trieste.

Additional information and enquiries about the scientific project can be addressed to Stefano Borgani: borgani[at]oats.inaf.it

A copy of the application form can be found here.

Candidates should have obtained a PhD in physics, astronomy, or equivalent degree (or a degree in physics or astronomy plus three years of documented experience in scientific activities). Previous experience with the research subject and good coding skills will be an advantage. Applications should be sent by ordinary mail or express courier to the following address:

Universita' degli Studi di Trieste
Sezione Servizi al Personale Docente
Unita' di Staff Valutazioni Comparative
Piazzale Europa n. 1
34127 Trieste (Italy)

The applicant should explicitly write on the envelope the following text:
SELECTION FOR "ASSEGNO DI RICERCA"
DEPARTMENT OF PHYSICS
SECTOR FIS/05

The applications should be received no later than MAY 26th, 2014 at 1pm CEST.

The application should include:
- the application form signed and dated,
- a curriculum vitae signed and dated, including a list of grants and fellowships held and a list of publications,
- a copy of a valid identity document (and of the Fiscal Code - only for Italians)
- a research statement (max four pages)

Note that applications will be rejected if: delivered after the deadline; the application form is incomplete and/or unsigned; the CV is unsigned; there is no copy of a valid identity document. Any question or doubt can be addressed to daniela.spadea[at]amm.units.it and  enrico.gabbai@amm.units.it .

In addition, the applicants should also arrange for two letters of reference to be sent to amministrazione.df[at]units.it by the same deadline.

The appointment is for two years, with a possible extension depending on funding availability and performance, and can start as early as October 1st, 2014, in any case no later than January 31st, 2015. The annual gross salary will be 26.270 EUR, more than adequate for local costs of living. Travel funds will be available.

The full text of the call (available only in Italian) can be found here.

The area of Trieste offers a rich scientific environment for research in astrophysics, which includes INAF, SISSA, INFN and ICTP. It also offers good computer facilities and access to supercomputer resources.

The University of Trieste is an Affirmative Action Institution. Women, Minorities, and Disabled Persons are encouraged to apply.