Archived Job Ad

Lecturer (Level B) in Astrophotonics - Macquarie University/Anglo-Australian Observatory

No. 26526
Position/Title: Lecturer (Level B) in Astrophotonics
Institution: Macquarie University/Anglo-Australian Observatory

Submit Resumes To:
Attention: Associate Professor Michael Withford

URL1: http://www.mq.edu.au/jobs/
(How to Apply)
URL2: http://www.astronomy.mq.edu.au
URL3: http://www.aao.gov.au/

Email Inquiries: Michael.withford@mq.edu.au

The closing date for receipt of applications: 07/30/2010 (Application date has passed)

Job Description:

Faculty of Science, Department of Physics and Astronomy
Lecturer (Level B) in Astrophotonics
Ref. 22329 (full-time, continuing)
Joint Macquarie University / Australian Astronomical Observatory (AAO) appointment

The appointee will jointly pursue active research at Macquarie University in the area of Astrophotonics within the MQ Photonics Research Centre in the Department of Physics and Astronomy, and within the Instrument Science group at the Australian Astronomical Observatory (AAO, located just 2 km from Macquarie University). In addition, the appointee will contribute to teaching and other academic activities within relevant disciplines of the Department of Physics and Astronomy. Significant contributions to Astrophotonics research-and-development within Macquarie University and the AAO are expected to benefit the Australian and international astronomical and photonics communities. This joint MQ/AAO position offers excellent opportunities to develop strong collaborative projects between the Macquarie University and AAO Astrophotonics groups.

The aim of Macquarie University's Department of Physics and Astronomy is to elevate the international standing of scientific and technological research that is already well established at Macquarie University. In the context of the MQ Photonics Research Centre there is particular emphasis on the following seven frontiers of optical science: Astrophotonics; biophotonics; microphotonic optical systems; nano-optics and nanophotonics; photonic sources; optical sensing and imaging; ultrafast laser applications; as well as the synergies that emerge between them. Intended additional outcomes from this appointment include growth in higher-degree research (HDR) student enrolment and completion rates by attracting and supporting quality HDR students and enhanced opportunities for Astrophotonics researchers to interact with external partners such as commercial organisations, government instrumentalities and other national and international Astrophotonics groups.

This particular appointment is in the specialised area of Astrophotonics, entailing development and application of photonic devices in the field of astronomy. It is strongly supported by both the AAO Instrument Science group, which designs and constructs instruments for the AAO and other telescopes, and by the MQ Photonics Research Centre, which undertakes fundamental and applied research in lasers and photonics including Astrophotonics. The AAO’s Instrument Science group leads research into new technologies for astronomical instrumentation and contributes to concept development and strategic planning for the Australian Astronomical Observatory and its facilities. Strong collaborative links between the AAO Instrument Science group and researchers in the MQ Photonics Research Centre are already well established, including co-supervised PhD students. The appointee will be expected to play a major role in Astrophotonics research-and-development programs, to help shape the scientific vision of the AAO and Macquarie University in response to the needs of the astronomy user community and to specific opportunities afforded by the facilities and other resources of the AAO and Macquarie University. This will entail collaboration with other universities and industrial partners, to identify and develop innovative enabling technologies that will support the AAO's cutting-edge instrumentation program targeted at future astronomical instrumentation. This is expected to help the AAO to maintain its world-leading reputation in this field. The appointment is expected to further strengthen the existing links between the AAO and Macquarie University, including the MQ Photonics Research Centre in particular and the Department of Physics and Astronomy in general.

The successful applicant must have:
• A relevant doctoral degree (or equivalent academic experience/accreditation and standing)
• A proven record of ongoing research and publication, an active research program, and/or experience in industry-collaborative research
• Capacity and/or demonstrated ability to perform high-quality teaching
• Capacity and/or demonstrated ability to attract and successfully supervise research students
• Demonstrated ability to communicate and interact effectively with students, staff, and the community
• Capacity and/or demonstrated ability to attract research grants and/or industry support;
• Academic/professional experience and interests in the area of astrophotonics
• Australian Citizen or a valid working visa with full work rights prior to commencing this appointment

Appointment Type: Full-time, continuing

Enquiries: Associate Professor Michael Withford, phone +61 2 9850 7056, e-mail Michael.withford@mq.edu.au

Additional AAO information: Professor Matthew Colless, phone +61 2 9372, e-mail director@aao.gov.au

Package: From $90,145 per annum, including base salary from $76,174 to $90,297 per annum, plus 17% employer’s superannuation and annual leave loading

Significantly the appointment comes with $100k of start-up funds and the provision of two MQ research excellence PhD scholarships that are expected to be filled in the first year.

Applications Close: 30 July 2010. Applicants are also invited to include a one-page statement of ways in which they could contribute significantly to the above intended outcomes within the MQ Photonics Research Centre, with particular emphasis on Astrophotonics in association with the AAO.

For further information regarding this appointment and to apply please visit www.jobs.mq.edu.au Please note that only those applications submitted via the Macquarie University Online Recruitment System will be accepted.

Macquarie University is an Equal Opportunity Employer with a commitment to diversity and social inclusion. We encourage applications from Indigenous Australians; people with a disability; those from culturally and linguistically diverse backgrounds; and women (particularly for senior and non-traditional vacancies).

Fair Work Information Statement: In accordance with the provisions of the Fair Work Act 2009 (Cth), the University is required to provide the Fair Work Information Statement to all new staff members before, or as soon as possible after, the commencement of employment.

Included Benefits:

17% employer’s superannuation and annual leave loading

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