X-ray astrophysics - Postdoc at Royal Inst. Tech., Stockholm

Postdoctoral scholarship in X-ray astrophysics 
KTH Royal Institute of Technology, Stockholm

The advertised position concerns new developments in X-ray polarimetry, and in particular, the assessment and preparation of XIPE (X-ray Imaging Polarimetry Explorer) - a new mission concept selected by ESA in June 2015 to undergo a 2 year long assessment phase in the context of the Cosmic Vision M4 programme. XIPE will study X-ray emission from a wide range of astrophysical sources, including supernova remnants, X-ray binaries and active galactic nuclei, thereby probing the behaviour of matter under extreme conditions. XIPE stands to be the first observatory sensitive enough to make accurate measurements of the polarisation of these sources, opening a new window on the high-energy Universe. The astroparticle physics group at KTH is one of the co-proposers of XIPE and is now establishing a development programme during the study phase. This position concerns studies of the mission design with a particular focus on background rejection studies and consequences for the performance as part of the preparation for the scientific programme.

This position is not tenured and comprises an initial appointment for one year with the possibility of a further year subject to the availability of funds and satisfactory performance.

Full details: https://www.kth.se/en/om/work-at-kth/stipendier/postdoc-scholarship-in-x-ray-astrophysics-1.595367