Call for postdoctoral position
Giant Segmented Mirror Telescopes (GSMTs) rest on wide field Adaptive Optics (WFAO) schemes with a more exhaustive characterization of the whole atmosphere above them. The success of WFAO has pushed GSMTs to switch the traditional scheduling of scientific programs (based on their quality) to an approach where the state of the optical turbulence is considered: the service mode. To implement the latter, many models have been introduced to forecast the mesoscale atmospheric turbulence and then predict relevant astro-climatic parameters. Yet, with all their capacity, these models are still unable to predict ground-layer turbulence; one particularly elusive barrier still remains: dome turbulence.
The aim of this call is to fund a postdoctoral position to deploy innovative imaging techniques and models for real-time tomographic assessment of dome turbulence; particularly, incorporating deep-learning techniques for inverse problems in ground-layer turbulence characterization.
Whether to complement current forecasting models or consider improved alternatives, astronomical facilities will largely benefit from a real-time stream of dome-turbulence contributions to the astro-climatic parameters. This will not only benefit CAOVa mission of preparing advanced human resources, but it will also allow current and future observatories in Chile to better implement the service mode scheduling.
As part of this research project, we are seeking for young PhD graduates to cover an open postdoctoral position at the Center of Adaptive Optics of Valparaíso (CAOVA, Pontificia Universidad Católica de Valparaíso, Chile). The interested candidate is expected to perform research in one of these topics:
- Characterization of anisotropic turbulence in light propagation;
- Deep learning applied to remote sensing;
- Remote sensing through imaging arbitrary targets; or,
- Low-Earth orbit objects detection and characterization through strong turbulence.
By covering one of these areas, they will participate in the the development of PASTA.M. In the upcoming two years, we are planing several campaigns at the Paranal Observatory and the postdoctoral fellow will be required to participate and lead in some of them.
Additionally, the postdoctoral fellow will participate in a new research venture SeeTRUE (Sharp wavefront sensing for adaptive optics in ground-based satellite communications and space surveillance). We will start deploying an experimental Observatory Ground Station (OGS) for LEO objects early detection in our facilities at Campus Curauma PUCV.
Salary and benefits
Initially, it is CLP $2,042,000 (around USD $2,468 per month) starting now (from 2023 to 2025)—there are bonuses per publication.
The postdoctoral fellow will have access to shared office space, a desktop computer, and a small computer cluster. Experimental research will be conducted at the Atmospheric and Statistical Optics Laboratory (well equipped to conduct the research topics announced). Additional money can provided to attend conferences or short research stays through CAOVa.
Commitments
The candidate is encouraged to apply to the national postdoctoral grant (FONDECYT) at some point; thus, extending their stay for another three to four years. These grants provides further research independence, and additional travel resources.
During their stay, they should have at least one paper accepted or published in a high-profile journal.
Requirements for application
Candidates should
- send a CV and a letter manifesting their interest in joining our project.
- preferably have earned their doctoral degree between January 1st 2019 and now—those with kids must have had earned it after January 1st 2018.
- (if selected) sent a copy of their PhD diploma, or equivalent certificate.
- commit to live and work in Chile for the full period of the grant—with exception of research related travel.
Applications will be received until the positions are filled.
Further inquiries
Prof. Dr. Darío G. Pérez, dario.perez@pucv.cl.