Open Positions

Applications are invited for 2 fixed-term postdoctoral researcher positions at the Finnish Centre for Astronomy with ESO (FINCA) at the University of Turku. The earliest starting date for the positions is 1.9.2011.

FINCA is a national astronomical research institute that takes care of Finnish co-operation with the European Southern Observatory (ESO); practises and co-ordinates high quality basic and applied astronomical research and technological development work related to ESO; participates in research training in astronomy; and promotes co-operation of Finnish universities in astronomy. More information about FINCA can be found on our website: finca.utu.fi.

The job description of the researchers consists of independent scientific research and, if required, participation in teaching, supervision of graduate students, and administrative duties.

The postdoctoral researcher positions require a Ph.D. in astronomy or a closely related subject, ability for independent scientific work and the necessary teaching skills. Experience in observational ground-based astronomical research and experience with the European Southern Observatory (ESO) will be considered a bonus.

As a general rule, the work place of the positions is FINCA, located within Tuorla Observatory of the University of Turku, but the employee can be located in the other participating universities of FINCA (Aalto, Helsinki, Oulu).

The postdoctoral researcher positions will be appointed for fixed two year terms, with the possibility of an extension to third year, subject to satisfactory performance and availability of funding.

In accordance with the University salary system for teaching and research staff, the salary is at level 5, where the position specific salary component is 2714.54 Euros per month. In addition, there is a component based on personal performance, which is normally between 16% and 28% and at most 46% of the position specific salary.

Applications must include a curriculum vitae, a list of publications, an ESO-related research plan (max. 4 pages), and the names and contact details of at least two people who can serve as a reference.

For further information on the positions, please contact the director of FINCA, Jari Kotilainen, tel. +358 (0)2 333 8250, e-mail: jarkot@utu.fi or the chairman of the Board of FINCA, Leo Takalo, tel. +358 (0)2 333 8229, e-mail: takalo@utu.fi.

Applications must arrive by email to: finca@utu.fi by Wednesday, June 1, 2011. Applications will not be returned.