Assistant Professor Astronomical Data Science

Leiden Observatory, part of the Faculty of Science at Leiden University, invites applications for a faculty position in Astronomical Data Science at the level of Assistant Professor (1,0 fte).

Modern astronomy has entered a data-rich era, involving the analysis of complex and/or enormous amounts of data and their statistical properties. Extracting scientific insight from these multi-dimensional data sets requires increasingly sophisticated analysis methods, from advanced statistical inference to machine learning and artificial intelligence. Leiden Observatory aims to remain at the forefront of these developments — in both research and education — by strengthening its expertise in astronomical data science.

• Machine learning and artificial intelligence applied to astronomical data
• Advanced statistical and probabilistic inference methods
• Scalable algorithms for the analysis of large observational, simulated, or laboratory data sets
• Efficient use of high-performance computing (HPC) and cloud-based platforms
• (Near) real-time analysis of large or streaming data
• Data management, archiving, and reproducible research practices

We welcome candidates whose expertise bridges astronomy and data science — whether through the development of new computational methods, the application of such techniques to cutting-edge data, or both.

• Pursue a strong and independent research program in any of the research areas represented at Leiden Observatory (https://(Use the "Apply for this Job" box below).),
• Contribute to and strengthen the data-science aspects of the Leiden astronomy curriculum, including the development and teaching of new courses at the BSc and MSc levels,
• Collaborate with other Dutch and international institutes and partners, including NOVA, ASTRON, SRON, and the Leiden Institute of Advanced Computer Science (LIACS),
• Grow a sustainable research group supported by externally funded research projects,
• Supervise PhD students and postdoctoral researchers,

Contribute to the broader scientific and educational mission of Leiden Observatory and the Faculty of Science.

Leiden Observatory is the astronomical institute of the Faculty of Science at Leiden University. With a rich history and a leading role in international astronomy, we offer a dynamic work environment where cutting-edge research and top-level education come together. The Observatory is part of the Netherlands Research School for Astronomy (NOVA) and maintains close ties with ASTRON (the Netherlands Institute for Radio Astronomy) and SRON (the Netherlands Institute for Space Research).

Our academic programs include a Bachelor and Master degree, complemented by a renowned PhD program. Together with over 180 dedicated staff members we are committed to academic innovation and fostering a close-knit, inclusive community where everyone feels welcome and valued. For more information about Leiden Observatory, see https:///astronomy

Leiden University’s Faculty of Science is a vibrant and internationally oriented environment where researchers and students collaborate across disciplines to expand the frontiers of knowledge. Research at the faculty spans a broad spectrum: mathematics, artificial intelligence, computer science, astronomy, physics, chemistry, bio-pharmaceutical sciences, biology, and environmental sciences. With over 1,300 staff members and nearly 4,000 students, the faculty has experienced significant growth and is situated in the heart of the Leiden Bio Science Park—one of Europe’s largest science hubs, fostering close interaction between academia and industry.

For more information, please visit https://-science

This position is a good fit for you if you recognise yourself in the following:

• A PhD in Astronomy, Astrophysics, Physics, Computer Science, or a closely related field,
• A strong research record, demonstrated by high-impact publications and leadership in the development and/or application of data‑science methods in…