observations, modelling and retrieval methods. The focus for this position is to prepare for, and analyze observations with the James Web Space Telescope (JWST), to be launched in spring 2019. The successful applicant will ensure SRON involvement in observing proposals using JWST, and prepare and apply state of the art analysis tools.

The position is located at SRON, Utrecht but will be in close collaboration with NOVA (the Netherlands research school of astronomy, located in Leiden). NOVA, in particular E.F. van Dishoeck and B. Brandl, leads the Dutch involvement in JWST/MIRI. Detailed insight into the MIRI instrument on board JWST is present through this collaboration, providing the successful applicant with a strong position to apply for JWST time.

We aim at researchers with some postdoctoral experience who want to perform research at the edge of theory and observation. The successful applicant ideally leads/contributes to the analysis of observations in a strong physical and chemical context and to JWST data reduction and observational strategies. Within this context there is significant freedom on the chosen focus.

For this interesting and challenging project, we are looking for a scientist with a PhD degree in astronomy or related fields and preferentially some postdoctoral experience in the field of exoplanet atmosphere observations. Preference will be given to candidates with aerosol/cloud experience and/or retrieval expertise. Good knowledge of the English language is essential and the candidate should be capable to work both independently and in a team.

Relevant competences: result oriented, analytical, can communicate clearly.

SRON core competencies

Innovative, focused on collaboration, responsibility, a global player, flexibility.

Employment of this full-time position as a Scientist C at SRON-Utrecht is by NWO (The Netherlands Organization for Scientific Research) and will be for a period of 3 years. The salary will be in accordance with the salary scales of NWO with a maximum of €4,154.00 gross per month on a fulltime basis (depending on education and relevant experience).

NWO has good secondary employment conditions such as:

• An end of year bonus of 8.33% of the gross yearly salary;
• 42 days of vacation leave a year on full-time basis;
• An excellent pension scheme;
• Options for (additional) personal development;
• Excellent facilities for parental leave;
• A holiday allowance of 8% of the gross yearly salary.

SRON

SRON's mission is to bring about breakthroughs in international space research. Therefore, the institute develops pioneering technology and advanced space instruments, and uses them to pursue fundamental astrophysical research, Earth science and exoplanetary research. As national expertise institute SRON gives counsel to the Dutch government and coordinates national contributions to international space missions. SRON stimulates the implementation of space science in our society.

The SRON exoplanet program started in 2015 as one of the main research focusses of the institute. We are currently involved in the PLATO and ARIEL missions. We perform cutting edge research in strong collaboration with Dutch Universities, allowing the applicant to also build on and strengthen the active collaborations with e.g. the University of Amsterdam and Leiden Observatory.

Our Exoplanets Science Group has a vacancy for a

Postdoc (f/m)vacancy nr. 1330

http://www.sron.nl