PhD position at the ICCUB Physical Cosmology group Unveiling the nature of dark sector components represents the next frontier in fundamental physics. The next-generation galaxy surveys, such as DESI, will play a crucial role.
The Dark Energy Spectroscopic Instrument (DESI) will collect optical spectra for tens of millions of galaxies and quasars to create the largest 3D map of the evolved Universe spanning the last 11 billion light years. Exploiting the statistical properties of this map, we can infer the underlying physics of the Universe. DESI has already started collecting spectra in 2020 and is expected to continue for at least another 4 years. Several intermediate data releases and publication of cosmological results are expected. In particular, DESI is expected to produce data on a timescale shorter than the studentship, offering a unique opportunity to exploit this data. The student will have access to these non-public datasets to develop their research in some of the following topics: better understanding the properties of General Relativity at cosmic scales, unveiling the properties of dark energy, measuring the growth of cosmic structure, detecting a neutrino mass signature, or detecting primordial cosmological perturbations signature. The research in any of these areas is expected to have a massive impact this decade and will contribute to answering significant open puzzles.
The student will join the research group led by Dr. Licia Verde and Dr. Hector Gil-Marin, working alongside the team to develop the appropriate techniques to be applied to DESI data for any of the research topics mentioned above. The student will have the opportunity to be fully involved with the cosmological interpretation and publication of the results.
Description of the group:
The ICCUB Physical Cosmology group has been studying connections between theory and observations via interpretation of data since 2007. Our main research interest is making the link between cosmological observations and theoretical physics beyond the standard cosmological model, hoping to shed light on the "open questions" in cosmology. These include questions such as the properties of dark matter, dark energy, neutrino mass, or whether there is new physics beyond the standard model of cosmology. Our collective expertise ranges from galaxy evolution to inflation model building, but our main strengths are in the analysis and interpretation of large-scale structure surveys. Members of the group are involved in the Dark Energy Spectroscopic Instrument (DESI), offering a diverse and vibrant learning and research environment.
Minimum Requirements:
Applicants may be all those who are enrolled or admitted to a doctoral program at the University of Barcelona for the 2023/2024 academic year at the time of application submission. Applicants who are not enrolled or admitted to a doctoral program at the time of application but will be by the date the contract is formalized are also eligible.
Applications must be submitted online through this link. The complete application consists of a research statement, a curriculum vitae including publications and grade transcripts. Candidates should also provide the email addresses of at least two contacts who can submit a supporting letter of reference. These will be contacted automatically once the application is submitted.
Employment conditions:
The minimum salary compensation that researchers in training must receive will be around 17,700 euros gross per year for each of the first two years, 19,000 for the third year, and 23,700 for the fourth year. An additional funding of 6,860€ will be available for tuition or research visits.
About the Institute of Cosmos Sciences:
The ICCUB is an interdisciplinary center with more than 60 long-term scientists, 20 engineers, and 80 postdoctoral researchers (55% international) and PhD students (30% international), offering an international and multicultural environment. The ICCUB hosts a vibrant fundamental research program in cosmology, astrophysics, and particle physics, with a strong technology unit supporting our participation in international collaborations in observational astronomy and experimental particle physics.
As part of the University of Barcelona, the ICCUB is a recipient of the European Commission's HR Excellence in Research (HRS4R) Award, which recognizes respect for equal opportunities and the capacity to attract talent in a positive working environment that promotes successful research careers. The ICCUB respects the principles of open, transparent, merit-based selection and strongly encourages women and underrepresented minorities in physical sciences to apply. For additional information, please see the Diversity, equity, and inclusion Commission.
The ICCUB is located in Barcelona, considered one of the World's Best Cities, known for its near-perfect weather year-round, beaches, iconic parks, striking architecture, and vibrant neighborhoods. It is also a hub for the technology sector and hosts major technological events.
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