Research Associate

Prof. Jess McIver invites applications for a research associate position at the Department of Physics and Astronomy at the University of British Columbia supporting software infrastructure for the LIGO-Virgo-KAGRA (LVK) Collaboration.

The successful candidate will serve as the lead developer of tools used for validation of candidate events detected by LIGO and Virgo, particularly GWSkyNet, GSpyNetTree, and later versions. They will work closely with national and international collaborators on integrating these tools into LVK infrastructure and providing user support. The initial position term is one year, with the possibility of renewal if additional funding becomes available.

The successful applicant will be embedded with the UBC LIGO and LISA team at the University of British Columbia’s Vancouver campus. Interested individuals are asked to submit a cover letter and CV, including a description of related experience here: 

https://academicjobsonline.org/ajo/jobs/31988/apply

Contact information for three references may be requested. Applications will be reviewed starting on May 20, 2026. A PhD in physics, astronomy, or a related field is required, and previous experience with developing GWSkyNet, GSpyNetTree, or related tools is strongly preferred.

The position will ideally start before the end of the calendar year. 

This position has a competitive annual salary of $72,000-75,000 CAD, depending on experience. UBC offers Research Associates a wide ranging benefits plan that includes extended health and dental coverage, paid parental leave, and more. Research Associates are eligible to participate in the Faculty Pension Plan.

Equity and diversity are essential to academic excellence. An open and diverse community fosters the inclusion of voices that have been underrepresented or discouraged. We encourage applications from members of groups that have been marginalized on any grounds enumerated under the B.C. Human Rights Code, including sex, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, racialization, disability, political belief, religion, marital or family status, age, and/or status as a First Nation, Metis, Inuit, or Indigenous person.

All qualified candidates are encouraged to apply; however Canadian citizens and permanent residents will be given priority.