Origin and evolution of non-thermal components in galaxy groups, clusters and beyond

The National Centre for Radio Astrophysics, Tata Institute of Fundamental Research (NCRA-TIFR), Pune, India, is seeking a Post-Doctoral Fellow to work on the origin and evolution of non-thermal components in galaxy groups, clusters, and other astronomical environments. The successful candidate will work with Dr. Ruta Kale.

Cosmic rays and magnetic fields, together referred to as non-thermal components, are ubiquitous in clusters of galaxies and in the large-scale structure of the Universe as a whole. However the origin and evolution of these components is still not well understood. The life cycle of the jets and lobes of radio galaxies and the particle acceleration mechanisms at work in the intra-cluster and inter-galactic media (ICM, IGM) are key to the manifestation of the cosmic rays and magnetic fields in the form of large scale diffuse radio sources. Phenomena on scales ranging from 10s of kpc at cluster cores to Mpc-scales of cluster mergers are important in regulating the cosmic rays and magnetic fields. Radio frequency data towards galaxy groups, clusters and superclusters and other multi-wavelength data will be analysed to uncover the role of radio galaxies and re-acceleration mechanisms in shaping the non-thermal environment in these structures. Use of data obtained from the uGMRT, MeerKAT and LOFAR is expected.

A background in the interpretation of multi-wavelength data on AGN, radio galaxies and clusters of galaxies and experience of obtaining proprietary time on observing facilities will be given preference. A good background in radio band and/or X-ray data analysis is desirable. The candidate will be expected to contribute to radio interferometric data analysis pipelines and develop data analysis tools. About 75% of the candidate's time is expected to be devoted to the above project and the rest can be used for the candidate's own research activities

Research activities at NCRA-TIFR are centred on low-frequency radio astronomy, with faculty members pursuing research in diverse areas of astrophysics. NCRA-TIFR operates two large observational facilities, the Giant Metrewave Radio Telescope and the Ooty Radio Telescope.

Applications containing a curriculum vitae, a research plan, and the names and e-mail addresses of three or more referees should be sent to the Dean, NCRA-TIFR Faculty, at the e-mail address deanncra@ncra.tifr.res.in, by November 30, 2022. Applicants should also request their referees to send in recommendation letters by the same deadline. All enquiries should also be made to this e-mail address. All applicants will automatically be considered for all available Post-Doctoral Fellowships at NCRA-TIFR.

The monthly salary of Post-Doctoral Fellows at NCRA-TIFR depends on experience after the doctoral degree. Candidates are required to have at least a provisional Ph.D. degree when taking up the position. For candidates who have received their doctoral degrees, the monthly salary ranges from INR 47,000 to INR 54,000, depending on experience. Post-doctoral fellows are also entitled to a contingency grant of INR 40,000 per year. All positions are tenable for a maximum of 3 years, with continuations subject to a yearly review.

Post-doctoral Fellows at NCRA-TIFR are provided a travel grant of INR 3,00,000 over the course of the fellowship to enable them to travel for international conferences or for research collaborations. They are also entitled to a house rent allowance, and medical coverage under NCRA-TIFR's medical scheme.