Thu 13 Mar 16:00: Reconstructing the History of the Milky Way Galaxy Using Stars
Astronomy of the Milky Way Galaxy has entered a transformative era. The Gaia mission and an ensemble of ground-based spectroscopic surveys are delivering element abundances and velocities for millions of stars. These data provide both an opportunity to deepen our understanding of galaxy formation and to test the “limits of knowledge.” There have been several surprises that have come out of the large stellar surveys and data-driven methodologies built to analyse them. We have learned that up to 1 in 100 stars in the disk are “abundance doppelgangers” – chemically identical but unrelated – limiting the prospect of reconstructing the disk’s star cluster building blocks. Furthermore, for stars in the disk, most of the element abundances measured for most of the stars can be predicted to a precision of better than 10 percent given only two key abundances. However, this is not the case for stars in the stellar halo. These findings frame how we can most effectively work with the data to turn photons into a quantified description of Galactic history and provide strong constraints on the star formation and mixing processes that have set the Galactic environment.
- Speaker: Melissa Ness, Research School of Astronomy and Astrophysics (RSAA), Australian National University, Canberra, Australia
- Thursday 13 March 2025, 16:00-17:00
- Venue: Hoyle Lecture Theatre, IoA (tea at 3:30 pm).
- Series: The Eddington Lectures ; organiser: .
Mon 20 Jan 13:00: Fermion Creation by Cosmic Perturbations at 1-loop
Weyl spin 1/2 fermions, when minimally coupled to Einstein’s gravity, cannot be produced purely gravitationally in an expanding universe at tree level. However, this picture changes at the gravitational 1-loop level in the presence of cosmic perturbations, leading to a new and unavoidable mechanism for gravitational particle production. In this talk, I will explore the theory and phenomenological implications of this new effect.
- Speaker: Azadeh Maleknejad (King's College London)
- Monday 20 January 2025, 13:00-14:00
- Venue: CMS, Pav. B, CTC Common Room (B1.19) [Potter Room].
- Series: Cosmology Lunch; organiser: Thomas Colas.
Building Attendant
The Cavendish Laboratory (Department of Physics) has an rare opportunity for a new position of Building Attendant to join our passionate and dedicated community at the University of Cambridge. Working as part of the Departments' Soft Facilities team, you will be part of a growing a team that deliver exceptional customer service and building management to all the users of the Cavendish Estate.
The Cavendish Laboratory is at an exciting point in its 150-year history, and undergoing a substantial period of transformation, as it prepares for its relocation to a beautiful, purpose-built physics facility, the Ray Dolby Centre, which will be the centre-piece of the new Cavendish III Laboratory. The Department is home to over 2000 staff, students and visitors across a large range of disciplines and categories, where exemplary delivery of world-leading, innovative research programmes and teaching takes place and where the provision of an outstanding soft facilities service will be vital to delivering the vision for the new Estate.
Working within the soft facilities remit alongside the Facilities Supervisor, the roleholder will be responsible for undertaking specialised daily cleaning and janitorial operations to support the world-class research and teaching within the Department and the smooth running of the buildings across the estate. You will be an experienced professional with a can-do approach who can confidently provide specialised cleaning solutions for active laboratory and cleanroom areas, alongside kitchens, lecture theatres, workshops and external areas.
About you
We are looking for someone who:
Has previous experience from a similar role within a scientific laboratory environment
Is able to communicate effectively and interact positively with staff, students and visitors, with a confident approach and positive attitude
Can manage their time to get tasks done and use their initiative to priortise when necessary
Has the ability to adapt throughout the day, with a flexible approach and willing to complete a variety of tasks
This full-time post is available now. Additional information regarding the role may be found within the Further Information via the link below.
Some of our many benefits include:
Competitive rates of pay with automatic service related pay progression and annual cost of living increases
Generous annual leave provision
Family & Work-life balance policies including hybrid working and generous carer leave (maternity, paternity, shared parental leave, adoption leave), amongst others
An auto-enrolment pension scheme, with a generous employer contribution
Exclusive employee discounts via our CamBens scheme
Personal Development: The Department actively encourages and supports personal development and our staff have access to a wide range of courses and training via our Personal and Professional Development (PPD)service.
Once an offer of employment has been accepted, the successful candidate will be required to undergo a health assessment.
The closing date for applications is Wednesday, 29th January 2025.
Click the 'Apply' button below to register an account with our recruitment system (if you have not already) and apply online.
For an informal conversation about the role, please contact Matt Molloy, Facilities Supervisor (mfm44@cm.ac.uk)
Please quote reference KA44667 on your application and in any correspondence about this vacancy.
The University actively supports equality, diversity and inclusion and encourages applications from all sections of society.
The University has a responsibility to ensure that all employees are eligible to live and work in the UK.
Assistant/Associate Professorship in Data-Driven Radio Astronomy/Cosmology
We are seeking a University Assistant/Associate Professor in Data-Driven Radio Astronomy/Cosmology.
Modern radio astronomy/cosmology, powered by advances in big data analysis, is at the forefront of studies to unlock the answers to some of the most fundamental physics questions in our time. We are looking for a talented early career scientist to promote and develop ambitious programmes aimed at investigating the universe via radio observations. The successful candidate will be expected to lead the development of advanced data analysis for radio astronomy/cosmology (e.g. statistical analysis, machine learning, etc), in collaboration with observational/experimental activities in Cambridge. In particular, the global astrophysics community is eagerly awaiting the start of scientific observations of the Square Kilometre Array Observatory (www.skao.int), commonly known as SKA, the largest and most powerful radio telescope ever to exist, currently under construction. The role holder will have the opportunity to take a leading role in our existing SKA activities and grants (eg SKA development grants). Furthermore, we expect the successful candidate to be well-placed to lead development efforts for SKA Phase II, expected to start within the coming years.
The role holder will be a world-class researcher in one of the following areas (corresponding to Science Working Groups for the SKA project - www.skao.int/en/science-users/science-working-groups): Cosmology, Epoch-Of-Reionization, Gravitational Waves, Pulsars, Transients.
The role holder will be based in the Department of Physics in the Astrophysics Group, located in the Battcock Centre for Experimental Astrophysics and the Kavli Institute for Cosmology in Cambridge.
Data-driven science and radio astronomy/cosmology with the SKA, are areas of very active research in Cambridge, with scientists leading several ongoing projects and the development of new facilities that are expected to be ground-breaking in this research field (see e.g. www.astro.phy.cam.ac.uk, www.kicc.cam.ac.uk/ and www.cavendishradiocosmology.com).
Applicants should have a PhD in physics (or a related discipline), a strong record of relevant research, and must show evidence of enthusiasm and ability to teach a wide range of Physics courses successfully at both undergraduate and master's level.
Appointment will be based on merit alone. As a signatory of DORA (https://sfdora.org) the University is committed to assessing research on its own merits rather than on the basis of the journal in which it is published.
Please ensure that in the Upload section of the online application you provide: Curriculum Vitae (CV); A full list of publications - please highlight up to 5 papers where you have made the most significant personal contributions, with up to 4 lines of text for each such paper; A research proposal no longer than 3 pages, including half a page description of how your research plans might fit with existing activities at the Department of Physics and the wider University; A one-page statement on your approach to teaching and how you believe you can contribute to the Department's teaching programme at undergraduate and graduate level; The contact details of three referees - please make your referees aware they will be contacted shortly after the closing date.
Shortlisted applicants will be informed at the end of April 2024. They will be invited to visit Cambridge in May/June 2025 for a departmental visit, informal discussions with faculty, give a presentation, and attend the formal interview.
The position is available from 1st September 2025. There is some flexibility on the start date, which can be negotiated at the appointment stage.
Click the 'Apply' button below to register an account with our recruitment system (if you have not already) and apply online.
Informal enquiries are welcome and should be directed to Dr Eloy de Lera Acedo (ed330@cam.ac.uk)
Please quote reference KA44612 on your application and in any correspondence about this vacancy.
The University actively supports equality, diversity and inclusion and encourages applications from all sections of society.
The University has a responsibility to ensure that all employees are eligible to live and work in the UK.
Fri 14 Mar 11:30: Title to be confirmed
Abstract not available
- Speaker: Leah Bigwood (IoA)
- Friday 14 March 2025, 11:30-12:30
- Venue: Ryle Seminar Room, KICC + online.
- Series: Galaxies Discussion Group; organiser: Sandro Tacchella.
Fri 21 Mar 11:30: Title to be confirmed
Abstract not available
- Speaker: Matt Grayling (IoA)
- Friday 21 March 2025, 11:30-12:30
- Venue: Ryle Seminar Room, KICC + online.
- Series: Galaxies Discussion Group; organiser: Sandro Tacchella.
Mon 17 Mar 13:00: Title to be confirmed
Abstract not available
- Speaker: Giulia Cusin (Institut d'Astrophysique de Paris)
- Monday 17 March 2025, 13:00-14:00
- Venue: CMS, Pav. B, CTC Common Room (B1.19) [Potter Room].
- Series: Cosmology Lunch; organiser: Louis Legrand.
Fri 31 Jan 11:30: Title to be confirmed
Abstract not available
- Speaker: Boris Bolliet (Cavendish)
- Friday 31 January 2025, 11:30-12:30
- Venue: Ryle Seminar Room, KICC + online.
- Series: Galaxies Discussion Group; organiser: Sandro Tacchella.
Fri 24 Jan 11:30: Determining Galaxy Kinematics and ISM conditions with the JWST/NIRSpec IFU
Massive, starbursting galaxies in the early Universe represent some of the most extreme objects in the study of galaxy evolution. Studies of their FIR emission with ALMA /NOEMA have revealed immense molecular gas reservoirs, high levels of star formation activity, and evidence for complex kinematics (e.g., rotation, merging, outflows). With the advent of the JWST /NIRSpec IFU , we may now investigate the ionised gas properties and kinematics on sub-kpc scales. Here, we detail the study of three such sources from the GA-NIFS survey: the SMG HFLS3 (z=6.34), the FIR -bright source HZ10 (z=5.65), and the LBG B1465666 (z=7.15). Using new NIR Spec/IFU data we present spectral fits, morpho-kinematic maps, and line ratio analyses for each. All sources are resolved into multiple discrete components, with spatial variations in ISM conditions that are explored through comparison to FIR observations.
- Speaker: Gareth Jones (Cavendish)
- Friday 24 January 2025, 11:30-12:30
- Venue: Ryle Seminar Room, KICC + online.
- Series: Galaxies Discussion Group; organiser: Sandro Tacchella.
Fri 07 Feb 11:30: Title to be confirmed
Abstract not available
- Speaker: Eun-jin Shin (IoA)
- Friday 07 February 2025, 11:30-12:30
- Venue: Ryle Seminar Room, KICC + online.
- Series: Galaxies Discussion Group; organiser: Sandro Tacchella.
Thu 30 Jan 16:00: AGN Feedback to Cosmology: eROSITA's Distinct Perspective on Large-Scale Structure
Abstract: Galaxy clusters, representing the peaks in the cosmic density field, serve as an independent and powerful tool for investigating the evolution of cosmic structures. The strategic identification of these clusters through multi-wavelength surveys is essential for advancing our understanding of gravitational theory, general relativity, and cosmological models. A significant milestone was achieved with the successful launch of eROSITA in July 2019. The German-built eROSITA X-ray telescope, on board the Russian-German Spectrum-RG (SRG) mission, operates within the 0.2-8 keV range and has produced the largest ICM -detected catalogs of galaxy clusters and groups through its first All-Sky Survey. With over 10,000 confirmed clusters, the survey is pivotal in refining cosmological parameters when combined with the data from optical surveys like DESI Legacy, DES , HSC, and KIDS . These parameters are constrained at a percentage level through the evolution of the cluster mass function, representing a significant leap forward, exhibiting a 5-9 times improvement compared to previous cluster surveys. In this talk, I will outline the constraints on fundamental cosmological parameters, neutrino masses, and general relativity derived from the first eROSITA All-Sky Survey. Additionally, I will present eROSITA’s significant detection of warm baryons within cosmic filaments identified by optical surveys and the implications for our understanding of AGN feedback in group-size haloes. I will summarize the value-added products made available to the science community by the eROSITA consortium’s data release.
- Speaker: Esra Bulbul
- Thursday 30 January 2025, 16:00-17:00
- Venue: Hoyle Lecture Theatre, Institute of Astronomy.
- Series: Institute of Astronomy Colloquia; organiser: Matthew Grayling.
Thu 20 Mar 16:00: Title to be confirmed
Title to be confirmed
- Speaker: Hannah Wakeford
- Thursday 20 March 2025, 16:00-17:00
- Venue: Hoyle Lecture Theatre, Institute of Astronomy.
- Series: Institute of Astronomy Colloquia; organiser: Matthew Grayling.
Thu 06 Mar 16:00: Title to be confirmed
Title to be confirmed
- Speaker: Evan O'Connor
- Thursday 06 March 2025, 16:00-17:00
- Venue: Hoyle Lecture Theatre, Institute of Astronomy.
- Series: Institute of Astronomy Colloquia; organiser: Matthew Grayling.
Thu 27 Feb 16:00: Title to be confirmed
Title to be confirmed
- Speaker: Ravit Helled
- Thursday 27 February 2025, 16:00-17:00
- Venue: Hoyle Lecture Theatre, Institute of Astronomy.
- Series: Institute of Astronomy Colloquia; organiser: Matthew Grayling.
Thu 20 Feb 16:00: Title to be confirmed
Title to be confirmed
- Speaker: Hagai Perets
- Thursday 20 February 2025, 16:00-17:00
- Venue: Hoyle Lecture Theatre, Institute of Astronomy.
- Series: Institute of Astronomy Colloquia; organiser: Matthew Grayling.
Thu 06 Feb 16:00: Title to be confirmed
Title to be confirmed
- Speaker: Natascha M. Foerster Schreiber
- Thursday 06 February 2025, 16:00-17:00
- Venue: Hoyle Lecture Theatre, Institute of Astronomy.
- Series: Institute of Astronomy Colloquia; organiser: Jan Scholtz.
Thu 23 Jan 16:00: Title to be confirmed
Title to be Confirmed
- Speaker: Mickael Rigault
- Thursday 23 January 2025, 16:00-17:00
- Venue: Hoyle Lecture Theatre, Institute of Astronomy.
- Series: Institute of Astronomy Colloquia; organiser: Matthew Grayling.
Thu 30 Jan 16:00: Title to be confirmed
Title to be confirmed
- Speaker: Esra Bulbul
- Thursday 30 January 2025, 16:00-17:00
- Venue: Hoyle Lecture Theatre, Institute of Astronomy.
- Series: Institute of Astronomy Colloquia; organiser: Matthew Grayling.
Mon 27 Jan 13:00: Primordial Black Holes - Positivist Perspective and Quantum Quiddity
Primordial black holes are black holes that may have formed in the early Universe. Their masses potentially span a range from as low as the Planck mass up to many orders of magnitude above the solar mass. This, in particular, includes those black holes recently discovered by LIGO /Virgo/KAGRA, and (part of) these may conceivably be of primordial origin. After a general introduction on primordial black holes, I review the observational hints for their existence—from a variety of lensing, dynamical, accretion and gravitational-wave effects. As I will show, all of these (over 20) may be explained by a single and simple unified model, naturally shaped by the thermal history of the Universe. If time permits, I will comment on vorticity, which we recently conjectured to be a novel feature of (near-extremally rotating) black holes, this possibly yielding the very first astrophysical observable for quantum effects in these compact bodies.
- Speaker: Florian Kühnel (LMU Munich)
- Monday 27 January 2025, 13:00-14:00
- Venue: CMS, Pav. B, CTC Common Room (B1.19) [Potter Room].
- Series: Cosmology Lunch; organiser: Thomas Colas.
Senior Research Laboratory Technician
The Department of Physics is looking to recruit a Senior Research Laboratory Technician to provide high-quality technical support to research groups at the Cavendish Laboratory.
The postholder will be working alongside a team of other research laboratory technicians to support research activities. This support may also include users from other departments and from outside the University. You will be interacting with researchers at all levels to translate their experimental requirements, using your experience to design, set up and assist with experiments. The postholder will also be responsible for maintaining existing equipment in a safe and effective state.
The role requires a high level of technical skill. The roleholder will work flexibly to respond to the changing needs of the research and will set their own priorities to achieve the best overall research outcomes. The roleholder will be expected to help mentor, teach and supervise a cohort of apprentices in best practices.
The successful candidate will have excellent interpersonal and communication skills, proven problem solving abilities, with the ability to manage their own time and priorities.
The postholder will hold a BTEC HNC or Higher Diploma in a laboratory technician qualification or a similar science related discipline. Experience with mentoring and teaching apprentices is desirable.
Once an offer of employment has been accepted, the successful candidate will be required to undergo a health assessment.
Click the 'Apply' button below to register an account with our recruitment system (if you have not already) and apply online.
Informal enquiries are welcome and should be sent to Emily Hogg, RDC Research Laboratory Manager eh678@cam.ac.uk
Please quote reference KA44676 on your application and in any correspondence about this vacancy.
The University actively supports equality, diversity and inclusion and encourages applications from all sections of society.
The University has a responsibility to ensure that all employees are eligible to live and work in the UK.