The radio astronomy program covers a broad range of topics with an emphasis on sub-GHz frequencies. Current research areas include (1) studies of radio galaxies, active galactic nuclei (AGN), and galaxy clusters; (2) interstellar propagation and scattering; (3) supernovae, supernova remnants, and the interstellar medium; (4) radio transients (including fast radio bursts (FRBs)); (5) pulsars; and (6) radio studies of the Earth’s ionosphere, magnetosphere, plasmasphere, and solar-terrestrial interactions. Natural synergy of these areas with GHz and higher frequency measurements leads to an extensive involvement of the group in both ground- and space-based observations including infrared, optical, X ray, and & gamma ray.

Radio astronomy techniques employed include (1) connected-element and VLBI interferometry; (2) low-frequency, wide-field imaging; and (3) single-dish measurements. With the National Radio Astronomy Observatory (NRAO), NRL has developed, and continues to improve, low frequency (330 and 74 MHz) systems on the Very Large Array (VLA) that compliment larger instruments including LOFAR, MWA, and the LWA, all of which we exploit for science. NRL developed the VLA Low-band Ionosphere and Transient Experiment (VLITE) capturing over 6000 hours per year of commensal sub-GHz data from the VLA. With an archive of over 60,000 hours, NRL researchers and the scientific community have used VLITE data for a wide variety of astronomical science from AGN variability to transients (e.g. radio SNe, long period transients).

Software packages in common use include AIPS, OBIT, CASA, WSClean, AOFlagger, etc. as well as access to DOD high-performance computing facilities. Operating systems in local use include LINUX, Mac OS, and Windows platforms. We encourage participation in national and international observing facilities, ground- and space-based, at radio, and other wavelengths.

 

key words

Radio interferometry; low frequencies; ionospheric remote sensing; radio astronomy; active galactic nuclei, radio galaxies, galaxy clusters; supernova remnants, interstellar medium; transients;

Citizenship:  Open to U.S. citizens and permanent residents

Level:  Open to Postdoctoral applicants

Additional Benefits

Relocation

Awardees who reside more than 50 miles from their host laboratory and remain on tenure for at least six months are eligible for paid relocation to within the vicinity of their host laboratory.

Health insurance

A group health insurance program is available to awardees and their qualifying dependents in the United States.