1. Department of Physics and Astronomy
2. This position is currently located at the Hawthorn campus but the incumbent may be required to undertake duties at any of the University's campuses
3. Stipend $46,000 p.a.
About the Scholarship
This full-time PhD position focuses on developing a processing pipeline for multi-element phased array feeds that are used for radio astronomy, employing commodity computation on Graphics Processing Units (GPUs). Phased array feeds can generate numerous independent beams to observe a wide field of view with high sensitivity. During the process of digital beamforming, they can undertake enhanced signal analysis, which is not possible with non phased-array systems. By employing high-performance signal processors such as GPUs, crucial tasks such as detecting and removing radio frequency interference and identifying astronomical signals (e.g., pulsars and fast radio bursts) can be undertaken in real time, despite the enormous (terabit per second) data rates involved. By employing GPUs and a software-based approach, the candidate will prototype new techniques and algorithms for integration into high-performance pipelines at radio astronomy facilities.
Phased array feeds play a crucial role in both astronomy and space sciences, making the potential impact of these advancements significant. The successful applicant will collaborate closely with two partner organizations, CSIRO Astronomy & Space Science, and Fourier Space Pty Ltd, to drive groundbreaking research in this field.
About you
To be successful in the role, you will have:
4. Bachelor Degree (Science or Engineering)
5. Honours or Masters in astronomy, astrophysics, software engineering, or a related field, or equivalent industry experience
6. Knowledge of software engineering techniques and familiarity with modern scientific computing capable of handling high volumes and rates of data.
7. Demonstrated high standard of interpersonal and communication skills including the ability to work both independently and collaboratively in a multi-disciplinary environment.
A full list of selection criteria is available within the position description.
Please note that due to the restrictions of the CSIRO iPhD program that is funding this position, only domestic PhD applicants (citizens or permanent residents of Australia, or New Zealand citizens) can be considered.
About Swinburne University of Technology
Swinburne Horizon 2025 draws upon our understanding of future challenges. With this new strategic plan, we choose to build Swinburne as the prototype of a new and different university – one that is truly of Technology, of Innovation and of Entrepreneurship, and proud of it. We are committed to a differentiated university proposition in education and research, so that:
• Every Swinburne learner gets a work experience
• Every Swinburne graduate gets a job
• Every Swinburne partner gets a tech solution
• Swinburne is the prototype of global best practice
The achievement of our 2025 moon shots depends on our capacity to work collectively, always, as One Swinburne.