Assistant Professor Astronomical Data Science

Teaser Text

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). 

What you will do

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.

We seek an outstanding researcher whose work focuses on the development and/or application of data science methodologies in astronomy and astrophysics. Areas of interest include (but are not limited to):

• 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.

The successful candidate will:

• Pursue a strong and independent research program in any of the research areas represented at Leiden Observatory (https://www.universiteitleiden.nl/en/science/astronomy/research),
• 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.

Where you will work

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 here: https://www.universiteitleiden.nl/en/science/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://www.universiteitleiden.nl/en/science/about-faculty-of-science

What you bring

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 astronomy,
• A clear vision for how your research complements and enhances the Observatory’s existing strengths,
• Experience in or enthusiasm for university-level teaching and curriculum development,
• A commitment to fostering an inclusive and collaborative research environment,
• The ability and ambition to attract external funding and build a vibrant research group,
• You are a clear communicator and team player, enthusiastic to collaborate across disciplinary boundaries, in both teaching and research and have an active international research network
• You have an interest in supporting the Observatory, through participation in committees and other organisational work.

What we offer

• An initial 12-month fixed term appointment as Assistant Professor (Universitair docent) with a view to a permanent contract and a long-term academic career trajectory, subject to performance. This contract falls under the CLA of Dutch Universities;
• A salary €4728 - €7297 gross per month, based on a full-time appointment (Scale 11-12, assistant professor);
• Starting date will be flexible;
• A holiday allowance (8%), an end-of-year bonus (8,3%), and an attractive pension scheme at ABP;
• Full reimbursement of public transport commuting costs for home-to-work travel;
• Flexible working hours: as a standard, you are entitled to a minimum of 29 leave days on the basis of a full-time working week of 38 hours; you can also save for extra leave, for example by working 40 hours a week, and in this way accrue an extra 96 leave hours, or exchange 96 leave hours for a 36-hour week.
• Lots of options when it comes to secondary employment conditions; we can, for example, discuss options for a sabbatical or paid parental leave. Within our terms of employment individual choices model, you can exchange leave days and/or salary for benefits such as an advantageous sports subscription and bicycle scheme;
• Candidates from outside the Netherlands may be eligible for a temporary tax break.
  
  

For more information about employment conditions, see https://www.universiteitleiden.nl/en/working-at/job-application-procedure-and-employment-conditions

What we find important

Promoting an inclusive community is central to Leiden University’s values and vision. Leiden University aims to be an inclusive community in which all students and staff members feel valued and respected, and are able to develop to their full potential. Diversity in experiences and perspectives enriches our teaching and strengthens our research. High-quality education and research means inclusive education and research.

Want to apply or find out more?

Applications should be submitted through the Leiden University application portal and must include:

• A cover letter,
• A curriculum vitae including a publication list,
• A statement of research interests and future plans (max 3 pages),
• A statement of teaching experience and philosophy (max 2 pages),
• Names and contact information of at least three referees.

If you would like more information about what the job entails, please contact Prof. Dr. Ignas Snellen, Scientific Director of the Observatory, via snellen@strw.leidenuniv.nl.   

You can apply until February 16th, 2026.

A pre-employment screening (references, diplomas) may be part of the selection procedure.

Acquisition in response to this vacancy is not appreciated.