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[Hyperspace-list] Hyperspace Bulletin for June 2012
by hyperspace＠aei.mpg.de 02 Jun '12

02 Jun '12

################################################################# Table of Contents ################################################################# 1. Conferences 1.1 Thirteenth Marcel Grossman Meeting (MG13) in Stockholm (6th circ.) 1.2 Spanish Relativity Meeting in Portugal, ERE2012 (3rd circ.) 1.3 Algebro-geometric methods in fundamental physics, Bad Honnef, Germany 1.4 Experimental Search for Quantum Gravity - the hard facts, Perimeter Institute 1.5 Exploring New Horizons with Gravitational Waves, Hannover 1.6 MG13, Parallel sessions SG1 - SG2: "GR around the Earth and the Sun", Stockholm 1.7 V Black Holes Workshop in Lisbon 1.8 From Quantum to Cosmos 5 - 5th International workshop on space-based research in fundamental physics and astronomy 1.9 26th Texas Symposium on Relativistic Astrophysics in Sao Paulo, Brazil 2. Jobs 2.1 Postdoc in gravitational physics at the University of Vienna 2.2 2012 VESF fellowships for theoretical research on Gravitational Wave Detection 2.3 Lecturer in Applied Mathematics at Queen Mary, London 3. News 3.1 Living Reviews in Relativity: "Stationary Black Holes" (major update) and "Dynamical Boson Stars" 3.2 Paris Spring Open Session of Scientific Culture 2012, "The Human and the Universe" 3.3 Einstein Toolkit Release 3.4 Gravity Research Foundation, Awards for the Essays 2012 3.5 2012 IOP Gravitational Physics Group Thesis Prize (sponsored by CQG) 3.6 John Miller awarded 2011 IOP Gravitational Physics Group thesis prize co-sponsored by CQG 3.7 Call for Nominations: Fellows of the GRG Society (revised mailing address) ================================================================= 1. Conferences ================================================================= 1.1 Thirteenth Marcel Grossman Meeting (MG13) in Stockholm (6th circ.) ---------------------------------------------------------------------- Announcement on Hyperspace@AEI: http://hyperspace.aei.mpg.de/2012/05/31/thirteenth-marcel-grossman-meeting-… Starting Sun, Jul 01, 2012 to Sun, Jul 07, 2013 Location: Stockholm, Sweden Additional Information: http://www.icra.it/MG/mg13/ The proceedings will be published as usual by World Scientific. However, the plenary session written contributions together with the chair selected rapporteur reports (both nominally up to 20 pages) will be published in early 2013 in the journal IJMPD (submission deadline of December 31, 2012). The remaining parallel session contributions up to 5 pages in the normal proceedings and poster contributions up to 2 pages (submission deadline of February 28, 2013) will be published together with the previously described contributions as usual as a three volume set by World Scientific. On Saturday July 7 at the International Conference on High Energy Physics in Melbourne, Australia the CERN scientists will announce their possible discovery of the Higgs particle, until which time news on this topic will be restricted. However, thanks to the time difference between Melbourne and Stockholm, just after the announcement in Melbourne, a special presentation will be made in the Saturday morning MG13 plenary session by two scientists, one from each of the two experimental groups involved, followed by a talk about the theoretical implications of the findings by Luciano Maiani. The plenary program is available on-line. During the month of June parallel session chairs will prepare the final program of their sessions. Contact the appropriate chairperson with any questions that arise; their emails are on the conference website. Any abstracts remaining to be submitted should be uploaded as soon as possible to receive consideration by the chairperson. The final parallel session program will be published in late June. +++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++ 1.2 Spanish Relativity Meeting in Portugal, ERE2012 (3rd circ.) --------------------------------------------------------------- Announcement on Hyperspace@AEI: http://hyperspace.aei.mpg.de/2012/05/31/spanish-relativity-meeting-in-portu… Starting Mon, Sep 03, 2012 to Fri, Sep 07, 2012 Location: Guimarães, Portugal Additional Information: http://w3.math.uminho.pt/~ERE2012 The Spanish Relativity Meeting (ERE) is an international conference devoted to Relativity and Gravitation and it is supported by the Spanish Society of Gravitation and Relativity (SEGRE) http://www.segre.es/en/congresos.shtml. Invited speakers - Alan Rendall (Albert Einstein Institut, Golm, Germany) - Claes Uggla (Karlstad University, Sweden) - Gabriel Lopes-Cardoso (IST, Lisbon, Portugal) - George Ellis (University of Cape Town, South Africa) - Jörg Frauendiener (Otago University, New Zealand) - José Edelstein (University of Santiago de Compostela, Spain) - Juan Valiente Kroon (Queen Mary, University of London, UK) - László Szabados (Hungarian Academy of Sciences, Budapest, Hungary) - Marc Mars (University of Salamanca, Spain) - Pau Figueras (University of Cambridge, UK) - Paul Tod (University of Oxford, UK) - Pedro Ferreira (University of Oxford, UK) - Peter Dunsby (University of Cape Town, South Africa) - Radu Roiban* (Penn State University, USA) - Vítor Cardoso (IST, Lisbon, Portugal) *To be confirmed We remind those interested in submitting an abstract to the conference that the deadline for abstract submission (10th of June) is quickly approaching. Also it is expected that the conference dates will be a busy period in Guimarães as the city is the "European Capital of Culture" in 2012. This makes it advisable to book accommodation well in advance. Finally we would like to ask participants to check regularly the conference website for further information updates. We look forward to seeing you all in Guimarães, The Local Organizing Committee (LOC) Alfonso García-Parrado Estelita Vaz (Coordinator) Irene Brito Filipe Mena Filipe Moura M. Piedade Machado-Ramos Viktor Czinner +++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++ 1.3 Algebro-geometric methods in fundamental physics, Bad Honnef, Germany ------------------------------------------------------------------------- Announcement on Hyperspace@AEI: http://hyperspace.aei.mpg.de/2012/05/29/algebro-geometric-methods-in-fundam… Starting Sun, Sep 02, 2012 to Fri, Sep 07, 2012 Location: Bad Honnef, Germany Additional Information: http://www.zarm.uni-bremen.de/agm2012 The issue of this WEH Seminar goes back to the very early period where physical problems started to trigger the development of mathematical methods. That means, it started with astronomical problems of describing the motion of celestial bodies. A first essential milestone in that history was the invention of elliptic functions. This then has been developed further yielding the Jacoby inversion problem and the construction of Abelian functions, the cornerstone of the whole building of modern algebraic geometry. Today, algebra-geometric methods are widely implemented in the context of modern physical theories like General Relativity, gauge theory, quantum theory and also string theory. Accordingly, there is a wide interest in developing further these mathematical methods in various directions. It is the purpose of this WE-Heraeus-Seminar to present the state of the art of this area of mathematics and its applications to various issues in theoretical physics. The WEH-Seminar is devoted to master students, PhD students as well as researchers. We will also have a poster session. Every participant is invited to present her/his research as poster. At the end of the meeting we will have the best poster award. Invited and confirmed speakers include M. Atiyah (Edinburgh), B. Dubrovin (Triest), N. Manton (Cambridge), W. Nahm (Dublin), E. Previato (Boston), and D. Zagier (Bonn). Organizers of this conference are V. Enolskii, J. Kunz and C. Lämmerzahl. +++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++ 1.4 Experimental Search for Quantum Gravity - the hard facts, Perimeter Institute --------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Announcement on Hyperspace@AEI: http://hyperspace.aei.mpg.de/2012/05/29/experimental-search-for-quantum-gra… Starting Mon, Oct 22, 2012 to Thu, Oct 25, 2012 Location: Waterloo, Canada Additional Information: http://www.perimeterinstitute.ca/en/Events/Experimental_Search_for_QG/Exper… Quantum Gravity tries to answer some of the most fundamental questions about the quantum nature of spacetime. To make progress in this area it is mandatory to establish a contact to observations and experiments and to learn what the "hard facts" on quantum gravity are, that nature provides us with. Quantum Gravity is a field where several approaches, based on different principles and assumptions, develop in parallel. At present it is not clear whether and how some of the approaches are compatible, and might share common properties. This meeting will draw on a diverse set of physicists who come to make proposals for quantum gravity phenomenology from a broad range of perspectives, including path-integral-inspired as well as canonical, and discrete as well as continuum-based approaches, providing a platform to exchange ideas with researchers working on theoretical and experimental aspects of different proposals. This will be the third in a series of meetings, the first of which was held at PI (2007), the second at NORDITA (2010). This meeting looks to the future and has two primary goals: 1) to assess the status of different proposals for QG phenomenology in the light of recent experimental results from Fermi, Auger, LHC etc. and 2) to discuss and stimulate new ideas and proposals, coming from a diverse set of viewpoints about quantum spacetime. In order to allow for a fruitful exchange of ideas across different approaches, and between experimental and theoretical researchers, the workshop will lay a main focus on structured discussion sessions with short (15 min.) presentations. For more information and a list of topics see the conference webpage. +++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++ 1.5 Exploring New Horizons with Gravitational Waves, Hannover ------------------------------------------------------------- Announcement on Hyperspace@AEI: http://hyperspace.aei.mpg.de/2012/05/29/exploring-new-horizons-with-gravita… Starting Fri, Jun 08, 2012 to Fri, Jun 08, 2012 Location: Hannover, Germany Additional Information: https://sites.google.com/site/gwnewhorizons/ "Exploring New Horizons with Gravitational Waves": a one-day intensive workshop on testing General Relativity on Black Hole Horizons with Gravitational Waves. Albert Einstein Institute, Max Planck Institute for Gravitational Physics, Hannover and Leibniz Universität, Hannover, Germany Friday, June 8, 2012 The scientific objective of the workshop is to bring together researchers in gravitational theory, numerical relativity and relativistic astrophysics to brainstorm on strategies for using LIGO/Virgo gravitational-wave detectors to test General Relativity in the strong field regime near black hole horizons. For further information and the registration form please see the following website: https://sites.google.com/site/gwnewhorizons/ Participants are encouraged to give short (~15 min) contributed talks. If you would like to give a contributed talk please submit your title and abstract on the web-site when registering for the workshop. Looking forward to seeing you all in Hannover. Organizers: Gian Mario Manca Emil Mottola Ruslan Vaulin Chris Van Den Broeck +++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++ 1.6 MG13, Parallel sessions SG1 - SG2: "GR around the Earth and the Sun", Stockholm ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------ Announcement on Hyperspace@AEI: http://hyperspace.aei.mpg.de/2012/05/25/parallel-sessions-sg1-sg2-gr-around… Starting Mon, Jul 02, 2012 to Tue, Jul 03, 2012 Location: Stockholm, Sweden Additional Information: http://www.icra.it/mg/mg13/parallel_sessions.htm Parallel sessions SG1 - SG2, "GR around the Earth and the Sun" Chair: Roberto Peron - Istituto di Astrofisica e Planetologia Spaziali (IAPS-INAF), Roma, Italy Neil Ashby - Department of Physics, University of Colorado, Boulder, CO, USA; NIST Affiliate The session deals with the recent advances in testing general relativity and alternative theories of gravitation around Earth and in the Solar System. This includes testing frame dragging and PPN gravitation with laser ranged satellites as well as with dedicated missions around Earth. Also important are the connections with geodesy and reference frames issues, now well known with the use of GPS. Testing general relativity in the framework of Solar System exploration is another important part, including the ongoing Cassini and the forthcoming BepiColombo. Modeling the dynamical environment of a probe in these different contexts is an important issue, and specific contributions in this direction are welcome. A special attention will be devoted moreover to tests of the Equivalence Principle. The verification of this cornerstone for many gravitational theories - in its various formulations - continues to be at the center of scientific interest, also for the potential impact that violations could have in our overall picture of the Universe. +++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++ 1.7 V Black Holes Workshop in Lisbon ------------------------------------ Announcement on Hyperspace@AEI: http://hyperspace.aei.mpg.de/2012/05/24/v-black-holes-workshop-in-lisbon/ Starting Mon, Dec 17, 2012 to Tue, Dec 18, 2012 Location: Lisbon, Portugal Additional Information: http://blackholes.ist.utl.pt/blackholes5/ We are pleased to announce the fifth Black Holes Workshop, taking place on 17-18 December 2012 in Lisbon, Portugal. The focus of the meeting will be on gravitational physics, with special emphasis on black hole physics. >From astrophysics to high-energy physics, from information theory to quantum gravity, black holes have acquired an ever increasing role in fundamental physics, and are now part of the terminology of many important branches of observational, theoretical and mathematical physics. This workshop aims at bringing together experts on all aspects of black holes. The deadline for registration and abstract submission is October 15. More details can be found in the official webpage. +++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++ 1.8 From Quantum to Cosmos 5 - 5th International workshop on space-based research in fundamental physics and astronomy ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Announcement on Hyperspace@AEI: http://hyperspace.aei.mpg.de/2012/05/23/from-quantum-to-cosmos-5-5th-intern… Starting Tue, Oct 09, 2012 to Fri, Oct 12, 2012 Location: Bergisch Gladbach / Cologne, Germany Additional Information: http://www.zarm.uni-bremen.de/Q2C5 The purpose of the Quantum-to-Cosmos workshop series is to highlight the field of fundamental physics, astronomy, and cosmology with experiments and observations on ground and in space in order to gain improved insight into the fundamental laws of nature. The workshop offers a fruitful space to discuss current and future fundamental physics and astronomy missions which are expected to revolutionize our understanding of the universe. The conference will be organized as a series of key-note talks and plenary sessions, covering the topics: - Gravitational Physics - Astronomy and Cosmology - Dark Matter and Dark Energy - Physics beyond the Standard Model - Quantum Physics and Technologies for Space - Geodesy and Planetary Missions - Policy and Opportunities for Space Experiments The preliminary list of confirmed speakers includes: Jocelyn Bell Burnell, Bob Bingham, Thibault Damour, Karsten Danzmann, Gilles Esposito-Farese, Ephraim Fischbach, Philippe Jetzer, Friedrich Koenig, George Picket, Dimitri Psaltis, Serge Reynaud, Gerhard Schaefer, Slava Turyshev, Norbert Wex Following representatives from the major space agencies will attend the event, too: Charles Elachi (NASA JPL), Alvaro Gimenez Canete (ESA), Thierry Duquesne (CNES) At this year’s Q2C5 workshop, we will also celebrate the 40th anniversary of one the largest fully steerable radio telescopes on earth: the 100-meter Effelsberg radio telescope operated by the MPI for Radio Astronomy. For this reason, the workshop organizers - the Center of Applied Space Technology and Microgravity (ZARM) and the German Aerospace Center (DLR) - will be supported by a third partner, the Max Planck Institute for Radio Astronomy (MPI). The Q2C5 workshop starts on Tue, October 9, at 10:00 am and ends on Fri, October 12, 2012, at 4:45 pm, and includes an excursion to the 100-meter Effelsberg radio telescope. Further details on the program and your options for registration are available at: http://www.zarm.uni-bremen.de/Q2C5 The on-line registration is now open! A limited contingent of hotel rooms has been reserved at a reduced rate especially for this event. +++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++ 1.9 26th Texas Symposium on Relativistic Astrophysics in Sao Paulo, Brazil -------------------------------------------------------------------------- Announcement on Hyperspace@AEI: http://hyperspace.aei.mpg.de/2012/05/11/26th-texas-symposium-on-relativisti… Starting Sat, Dec 15, 2012 to Thu, Dec 20, 2012 Location: São Paulo, Brazil Additional Information: http://www.das.inpe.br/texas2012sp The 26th Texas Symposium on Relativistic Astrophysics will be held in Sao Paulo city, Brazil, from December 15-20, 2012, hosted by National Institute for Space Research (INPE). The Symposium will be held at Hotel Bourbon Convention Ibirapuera (http://www.bourbon.com.br/en/hotel) As in the previous editions of the Texas Symposium, Texas 2012 will cover recent developments in Cosmology, Gravitation, Astroparticle Physics and related areas of Relativistic Astrophysics with emphasis on the most recent developments in the field. Because of the proximity to Christmas, we anticipated the symposium in one day. So, it starts on Sunday (December 16) and ends on Thursday (December 20) in the middle of the afternoon, allowing people to travel already that evening (on December 20). There will be a cocktail of reception Saturday, on December 15. Therefore, if you arrive in Sao Paulo on December 15 during the day and leave on December 20 at night you won't be missing anything. ================================================================= 2. Jobs ================================================================= 2.1 Postdoc in gravitational physics at the University of Vienna ---------------------------------------------------------------- Announcement on Hyperspace@AEI: http://hyperspace.aei.mpg.de/2012/05/16/postdoc-in-gravitational-physics-at… Institution: Vienna, Austria Deadline: Wed, Aug 01, 2012 Additional Information: https://univis.univie.ac.at/ausschreibungstellensuche/flow/bew_ausschreibun… The Gravitational Physics group of the Department of Physics of University of Vienna (see http://gravity.univie.ac.at/) is seeking to fill a post-doctoral position (Universitaetsassistent/in) in the field of mathematical general relativity and/or numerical general relativity; in the latter case candidates with strong interest in rigorous aspects of numerical analysis will be sought. The appointment will be up to four years without a possibility of extension. The employment will start on December 1, 2012. The list of members of the group at the start of the appointment, including scientifically active retired members, will include Peter Aichelburg, Robert Beig, Piotr T. Chrusciel, James Grant, Helmut Rumpf, Walter Simon and Helmuth Urbantke. The gross salary is EUR 3381 fourteen times a year. The yearly teaching load averaged over four semesters is four hours/week, in English or in German, and the candidate will not be asked to teach more than six hours a week in any given semester in any case. Applications done online before August 1, 2012 at URL http://http://jobcenter.univie.ac.at/en/applications/ position numbered "Kennzahl 3109" (follow the link to the online advertisements) will receive full attention, but applications before July 1st are strongly encouraged. The candidates should arrange to have three letters of recommendation to be sent before August 1, 2012 to Mrs Karin Picek, Mathematical Physics, Faculty of Physics, Boltzmanngasse 5/5/3521, A-1090 Vienna, Austria. Further enquiries can be directed to karin.picek[AT]univie.ac.at +++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++ 2.2 2012 VESF fellowships for theoretical research on Gravitational Wave Detection ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Announcement on Hyperspace@AEI: http://hyperspace.aei.mpg.de/2012/05/13/2012-vesf-fellowships-for-theoretic… Institution: VESF Institutions Deadline: Sat, Jun 30, 2012 Additional Information: http://www.roma1.infn.it/teongrav/VESF 2012 Call for VESF Fellowships for theoretical research on Gravitational Wave Detection The Virgo EGO Scientific Forum (VESF) is glad to announce the following call for fellowship applications to work on theoretical research relevant to the physics of the Virgo experiment. Mostly contemplated topics will be: potentially detectable gravitational wave sources, emitted waveforms, rates, data analysis algorithms and strategies and any other topic of interest for Virgo. This call is open to individual candidates (PhD holders or students) and to groups as well, that are members of VESF. Applications from individuals are encouraged. The VESF shall fund four one-year fellowships, each at the cost of 25.000 euros. However, proposals of particular interest for Virgo and which may need two years of activity may be considered as well. VESF will not consider positions having a yearly cost higher than 25 KE, unless co-sponsorship is foreseen by the proponent. Basic criteria to assess the applications will be: - The relevance of the proposal with respect to the Virgo detector. In particular, a direct impact on the data analysis will be considered as an additional credit; - Proposals for funding postdoctoral positions will be preferred although VESF will try to keep a balance; Applications must be sent electronically to: severine.perus[AT]ego-gw.it The documents required for submitting the application are: - the VESF application form available at: http://www.roma1.infn.it/teongrav/VESF/ - For individual applications: * curriculum vitae of the proponent; * two letters of reference * a letter of endorsement by the hosting Institution, providing hospitality as well as logistic and scientific support for the proposed research activity. VESF encourages applications from individuals with disabilities, minorities, and women. The deadline for submitting applications is June 30th 2012 +++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++ 2.3 Lecturer in Applied Mathematics at Queen Mary, London --------------------------------------------------------- Announcement on Hyperspace@AEI: http://hyperspace.aei.mpg.de/2012/05/03/lecturer-in-applied-mathematics-2/ Institution: London, UK Additional Information: http://www.jobs.ac.uk/job/AEI814/lecturer-in-applied-mathematics/ Lecturer in Applied Mathematics Queen Mary, University of London - School of Mathematical Sciences Queen Mary is one of London and the UK's leading research-focused universities. With over 16,000 students, it is amongst the largest of the colleges of the University of London. Queen Mary's 3,000 staff teach and research across a wide range of subjects in Science and Engineering, the Humanities, Social Sciences and Laws, and Medicine and Dentistry. Queen Mary has made a strategic commitment to the highest quality of world-class research across all its disciplines. As part of this strategy, we are in the process of a 3 year programme of recruitment in the School of Mathematical Sciences. The School of Mathematical Science has a very strong research presence across the spectrum of Pure Mathematics, Applied Mathematics and Statistics. The School also have a large and popular Undergraduate and Graduate School. Applications are invited for a Lectureship in Applied Mathematics. The successful applicant will have outstanding profile of research in an area of Applied Mathematics or Theoretical Physics, together with the ability and flexibility to teach across a wide range of topics in mathematics. They will be expected to develop a research platform within the School or to contribute to an existing one. Applicants with a research area in complex systems, statistical mechanics, dynamical systems, applied probability, or mathematical general relativity are particularly encouraged to apply. The post is full time and permanent. The starting salary will be in the range of £37,819 - £47,088 per annum, subject to experience and qualifications. Benefits include 30 days annual leave, childcare vouchers scheme, defined benefit pension scheme and interest free season ticket loan. Candidates must be able to demonstrate their eligibility to work in the UK in accordance with the Immigration, Asylum and Nationality Act 2006. Where required this may include entry clearance or continued leave to remain under the Points Based Immigration Scheme. Informal enquiries may be made to the Director of Applied Mathematics, Professor Christian Beck on c.beck[AT]qmul.ac.uk or on 0207 882 3286 Information about the group is available at http://www.maths.qmul.ac.uk/research/applied To apply, please visit the Human Resources website on http://www.hr.qmul.ac.uk/vacancies and search for reference QMUL0862. The closing date for applications is 31st May 2012. Interviews are expected to be held early July 2012. Valuing Diversity and Committed to Equality ================================================================= 3. News ================================================================= 3.1 Living Reviews in Relativity: "Stationary Black Holes" (major update) and "Dynamical Boson Stars" ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Announcement on Hyperspace@AEI: http://hyperspace.aei.mpg.de/2012/05/29/living-reviews-in-relativity-statio… Additional Information: http://relativity.livingreviews.org/ This month, Living Reviews in Relativity has published two new articles, a major update of the review "Stationary Black Holes: Uniqueness and Beyond" by Piotr T. Chrusciel, Joao Lopes Costa, and Markus Heusler and a new article on "Dynamical Boson Stars" by Steven L. Liebling and Carlos Palenzuela. Please find the abstracts and further details below. ------------------ PUB.NO. lrr-2012-7 Chrusciel, Piotr T. and Lopes Costa, Joao and Heusler, Markus "Stationary Black Holes: Uniqueness and Beyond" ACCEPTED: 2012-03-29 PUBLISHED: 2012-05-29 FULL ARTICLE AT: http://www.livingreviews.org/lrr-2012-7 ABSTRACT: The spectrum of known black-hole solutions to the stationary Einstein equations has been steadily increasing, sometimes in unexpected ways. In particular, it has turned out that not all black hole equilibrium configurations are characterized by their mass, angular momentum and global charges. Moreover, the high degree of symmetry displayed by vacuum and electrovacuum black-hole space-times ceases to exist in self-gravitating non-linear field theories. This text aims to review some developments on the subject and to discuss them in the light of the uniqueness theorem for the Einstein–Maxwell system. ------------------ PUB.NO. lrr-2012-6 Liebling, Steven L. and Palenzuela, Carlos "Dynamical Boson Stars" ACCEPTED: 2012-03-29 PUBLISHED: 2012-05-08 FULL ARTICLE AT: http://www.livingreviews.org/lrr-2012-6 ABSTRACT: The idea of stable, localized bundles of energy has strong appeal as a model for particles. In the 1950s, John Wheeler envisioned such bundles as smooth configurations of electromagnetic energy that he called geons, but none were found. Instead, particle-like solutions were found in the late 1960s with the addition of a scalar field, and these were given the name boson stars. Since then, boson stars find use in a wide variety of models as sources of dark matter, as black hole mimickers, in simple models of binary systems, and as a tool in finding black holes in higher dimensions with only a single killing vector. We discuss important varieties of boson stars, their dynamic properties, and some of their uses, concentrating on recent efforts. UPCOMING ARTICLES AT: http://relativity.livingreviews.org/Articles/upcoming.html +++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++ 3.2 Paris Spring Open Session of Scientific Culture 2012, "The Human and the Universe" -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Announcement on Hyperspace@AEI: http://hyperspace.aei.mpg.de/2012/05/29/paris-spring-open-session-of-scient… Additional Information: http://chalonge.obspm.fr/Programme2012.html We are pleased to inform you that the presentations by the lecturers during the Open Spring Session of the Chalonge School 10 May 2012 as well as the Photo Album of the meeting capturing moments of the stimulating atmosphere created by all lecturers and participants are available on-line at: http://chalonge.obspm.fr/Programme2012.html The session gathered together scientists, specialized journalists, students and personalities in a rich intellectual, open and inter-disciplinary prestigious framework. Science with great intellectual endeavor and a human face. The session included the following panels and highlights: - The Human and the Universe and the Human in Space. Profession Astronaut. - High Mountain Observatories: scientific and human world heritage. Challenging Scientific Programmes for Space and results. - The Chalonge School Scientific Programme 2012. - From Jean Dominique Cassini (1625-1712) to the spacecraft Cassini-Huygens with a tour of the historic Perrault building and exhibition We thank all again, both lecturers and participants, for having contributed so much to this session and we look forward to seeing you again in the next event of this series. With Compliments and kind regards Norma G Sanchez, Hector J. de Vega http://chalonge.obspm.fr +++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++ 3.3 Einstein Toolkit Release ---------------------------- Announcement on Hyperspace@AEI: http://hyperspace.aei.mpg.de/2012/05/29/einstein-toolkit-release-3/ Additional Information: http://einsteintoolkit.org/about/releases/ET_2012_05_announcement.php We are pleased to announce the fifth release (code name Lovelace (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ada_Lovelace) of the Einstein Toolkit, an open, community developed software infrastructure for relativistic astrophysics. This release includes beginning support for OpenCL (disabled by default). In addition, bug fixes accumulated since the previous release in October 2011 have been included. The Einstein Toolkit is a collection of software components and tools for simulating and analyzing general relativistic astrophysical systems that builds on numerous software efforts in the numerical relativity community including CactusEinstein, the Carpet AMR infrastructure and the relativistic hydrodynamics code GRHydro (an updated and extended version of the public release of the Whisky code). The Cactus Framework is used as the underlying computational infrastructure providing large-scale parallelization, general computational components, and a model for collaborative, portable code development. The toolkit includes modules to build complete codes for simulating black hole spacetimes as well as systems governed by relativistic hydrodynamics. The Einstein Toolkit uses a distributed software model and its different modules are developed, distributed, and supported either by the core team of Einstein Toolkit Maintainers, or by individual groups. Where modules are provided by external groups, the Einstein Toolkit Maintainers provide quality control for modules for inclusion in the toolkit and help coordinate support. The Einstein Toolkit Maintainers currently involve postdocs and faculty from five different institutions, and host weekly meetings that are open for anyone to join in. Guiding principles for the design and implementation of the toolkit include: open, community-driven software development; well thought out and stable interfaces; separation of physics software from computational science infrastructure; provision of complete working production code; training and education for a new generation of researchers. For more information about using or contributing to the Einstein Toolkit, or to join the Einstein Toolkit Consortium, please visit our web pages at http://einsteintoolkit.org. The Einstein Toolkit is primarily supported by NSF 0903973/0903782/0904015 (CIGR), and also by NSF 0701566/0855892 (XiRel), 0721915 (Alpaca), 0905046/0941653 (PetaCactus), and 0710874 (LONI Grid). The Einstein Toolkit contain over 170 regression test cases. On a large portion of the tested machines, all of these testsuites pass, using both MPI and OpenMP parallelization. The changes between this and the previous release include: - Accelerator Support This release of the Einstein Toolkit adds support for GPUs and other accelerators. This support comprises three levels of abstraction, ranging from merely building and running both CUDA and OpenCL code, to automated code generation targeting GPUs instead of CPUs. As with any other programming paradigm (such as MPI or OpenMP), the performance benefits depend on the particular algorithms used and optimizations that are applied. In addition, the Simulation Factory greatly aids portability to a wide range of computing systems. At the lowest level, Cactus now supports compiling, building, and running with either CUDA or OpenCL. CUDA is supported as new language in addition to C, C++, and Fortran; OpenCL is supported as an external library, and builds and executes compute kernels via run-time calls. Details are described in the user's guide (for CUDA) and in thorn ExternalLibraries/OpenCL (for OpenCL). Many accelerator platforms today separate between host memory and device memory, and require explicit copy or map operations to transfer data. An intermediate level of abstraction aids transferring grid variables between host and device, using schedule declarations to keep track of which data are needed where, and minimizing expensive data transfers. For OpenCL, there is a compact API to build and execute compute kernels at run time. Details are described in thorns CactusUtils/Accelerator and CactusUtils/OpenCLRunTime (with example parameter file). Finally, the code generation system Kranc has been extended to be able to produce either C++ or OpenCL code, based on the infrastructure described above. This allows writing GPU code in a very high-level manner. However, it needs to be stated that the efficiency of the generated code depends on many variables, including e.g. the finite differencing stencil radius and the number of operations in the generated compute kernels. Non-trivial kernels typically require system-dependent tuning to execute efficiently, as GPUs and other accelerators generally show a rather unforgiving performance behavior. The thorns McLachlan/ML_WaveToy and McLachlan/ML_WaveToy_CL are examples, generated from the same Kranc script, showing the generated C++ and OpenCL code. - SimFactory - Machine database and optionlists updated due to system changes on HPC resources - Simfactory's capability of running the testsuites is properly tested on a lot of systems. - IOUtil: checkpoint_dir is now steerable - SphericalSurface: added functionality to name spherical surfaces - Formaline: Support a "local repository" that collects all machine-local repositories - TimerReport: Allow different timers on different processes - WeylScal4: Enable use of LoopControl, and hence OpenMP - EOS_Omni: use C interface for HDF5 to avoid needing Fortran HDF5 bindings - EOSG_*: Support for the so-called 'general EOS interface' has been dropped from the Einstein Toolkit - A new arrangement EinsteinExact has been added to the toolkit, providing a wide range of exact initial data, which will eventually replace the 'Exact' thorn. - The *_O2 versions of McLachlan have been removed from the toolkit. This functionality is already provided by the regular McLachlan thorns now. - A new thorn ADMMass has been added to the Einstein Toolkit, which can calculate approximations of the ADM mass using a finite surface or volume integral. - The old library mechanism in Cactus (e.g. HDF5=yes) is now deprecated. Expect it to be removed in one of the next releases. - The thorns ADM and LegoExcision are deprecated and will be removed in one of the next releases. - GRHydro: - use atmosphere integer mask instead of bitmask - remove (now) unused old Tmunu interface - Implemented enhanced PPM scheme by Colella & Sekora 2008, McCorquodale & Colella 2011. Can be activated by setting use_enhanced_ppm = yes - External Libraries: several updates and configuration improvements - Cactus - implement per-variable tolerances for Cactus testsuites, for long discussion, see ET ticket #114 - Allow arithmetic expression in ParameterSet: parameter files can now contain a limited set of expressions - Handles requirements recursively - A lot of smaller bug fixes - McLachlan: Implement CCZ4 formulation - CarpetMask: Keep track of the volume that is masked out - CarpetLib: Define MPI reduction operators for complex numbers - CarpetIOASCII: Add new "compact" output format - Csrpet: Support accelerator data transfer - CarpetRegrid2: Add periodic boundary conditions - Simfactory - Use OpenMP by default - Make running testsuites using Simfactory possible - Updated a lot of configurations All repositories participating in this release carry a branch ET_2012_05 marking this release. These release branches will be updated if severe errors are found. For more detailed information about the "Lovelace" release please read the long release announcement on the Einstein Toolkit web pages: http://einsteintoolkit.org/about/releases/ET_2012_05_announcement.php. On behalf of the Einstein Toolkit Consortium: the "Lovelace" Release Team Eloisa Bentivegna Tanja Bode Peter Diener Roland Haas Ian Hinder Frank Löffler Bruno Mundim Christian D. Ott Erik Schnetter May 28, 2012 +++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++ 3.4 Gravity Research Foundation, Awards for the Essays 2012 ----------------------------------------------------------- Announcement on Hyperspace@AEI: http://hyperspace.aei.mpg.de/2012/05/16/gravity-research-foundation-awards-… Additional Information: http://www.gravityresearchfoundation.org GRAVITY RESEARCH FOUNDATION PO BOX 81389 WELLESLEY HILLS MA 02481-0004 USA Roger W. Babson, Founder George M. Rideout, Jr., President The trustees are pleased to announce the Awards for Essays for 2012. 1. $4,000 - Can Effects of Quantum Gravity Be Observed in the Cosmic Microwave Background? by Claus Kiefer and Manuel Kraemer, Institute for Theoretical Physics, University of Cologne, Zuelpicher Strasse 77, 50937 Koeln, Germany; e-mail: kiefer[AT]thp.uni-koeln.de mk[AT]thp.uni-koeln.de 2. $1,250 - What Can the Information Paradox Tell Us about the Early Universe? by Samir D. Mathur, Department of Physics, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH 43210; e-mail: mathur[AT]mps.ohio-state.edu 3. $1,000 - The Unbearable Beingness of Light - Dressing and Undressing Photons in Black Hole Spacetimes by Timothy J. Hollowood and Graham M. Shore, Department of Physics, Swansea University, Swansea, SA2 8PP, UK: e-mail: t.hollowood[AT]swansea.ac.uk g.m.shore[AT]swansea.ac.uk 4. $750 - Holographic Space-Time by Tom Banks, NHETC and Department of Physics and Astronomy, Rutgers University, Piscataway, NJ 08854-8019, and SCIPP and Department of Physics, University of California, Santa Cruz, CA 95064-1077; e-mail: banks[AT]scipp.ucsc.edu 5. $500 - Secret Life of the Spacetime by T. Padmanabhan, IUCAA, Post Bag 4, Ganeshkhind, Pune - 411007, India; e-mail: paddy[AT]iucaa.ernet.in Selected for Honorable Mention this year were (listed in alphabetical order) Giovanni Amelino-Camelia, Valerio Astuti and Giacomo Rosati; Jacob D. Bekenstein; Adam R. Brown and Alex Dahlen; Marcelo Botta Cantcheff; Marios Christodoulou, Aldo Riello and Carlo Rovelli; Joseph P. Conlon; Christian Corda; Lawrence B. Crowell; Upasana Das and Banibrata Mukhopadhyay; Arundhati Dasgupta and Adamantia Zampeli; Aharon Davidson and Ben Yellin; Henrique P. de Oliveira, Leopoldo A. Pando Zayas and Cesar A. Terrero-Escalante; Irina Dymnikova; Ariel Edery and Hugues Beauchesne; Homer G. Ellis; Tiberiu Harko and Francisco S. N. Lobo; Shahar Hod; Viqar Husain and Dawood Kothawala; Ted Jacobson; Priti Mishra and Tejinder P. Singh; Sujoy Kumar Modak and Douglas Singleton; Kouji Nakamura; M. B. Paranjape; Ira Z. Rothstein; Rolf Schimmrigk; C. Sivaram and Kenath Arun; Albert Stebbins; W.M. Stuckey, T.J. McDevitt and M. Silberstein; Yu Tian, Xiao-Ning Wu and Hongbao Zhang; Christos G. Tsagas; C. S. Unnikrishnan and G. T. Gillies; Ram Gopal Vishwakarma. This announcement and abstracts of award-winning and honorable mention essays will be posted when ready on our web site, http://www.gravityresearchfoundation.org. The five award-winning essays will be published in a special issue of the International Journal of Modern Physics D (IJMPD). They will also be posted at a later date on our web site. +++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++ 3.5 2012 IOP Gravitational Physics Group Thesis Prize (sponsored by CQG) ------------------------------------------------------------------------ Announcement on Hyperspace@AEI: http://hyperspace.aei.mpg.de/2012/05/14/2012-gravitational-physics-group-th… Additional Information: http://gp.iop.org/ The 2012 Institute of Physics Gravitational Physics Group Thesis Prize, sponsored by Classical and Quantum Gravity (CQG), will be made for excellence in postgraduate research and communication skills in gravitational physics. All members of the IOP Gravitational Physics Group who passed their PhD viva voce exam between 30 September 2010 and 31 December 2012 are entitled to enter the competition. Note that the viva period for eligible candidates is longer than in previous years. The winner will be awarded £500 and they will be invited to submit a paper to CQG based on the winning thesis which, if accepted, will be made a ’select article’ in CQG. Furthermore, the winner will be given the opportunity to present their work at one of the UK BritGrav meetings. Anyone (student or otherwise) can nominate a candidate (including the candidate themselves). If you have someone in mind, please send an email to the IOP Gravitational Physics Group secretary (David Burton at d.burton[AT]lancaster.ac.uk) containing the candidate’s contact details and the committee will encourage them to enter the competition. The candidate must be a member of the IOP Gravitational Physics Group, and will be asked to provide their IOP membership number. Please note that the student’s external PhD examiner must be willing to comment on the student’s research, quality of the student’s thesis and the student’s ability to cogently communicate their work (evidenced by their viva performance and/or seminars). Students are advised to consult their external examiner before entering the competition. +++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++ 3.6 John Miller awarded 2011 IOP Gravitational Physics Group thesis prize co-sponsored by CQG --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Announcement on Hyperspace@AEI: http://hyperspace.aei.mpg.de/2012/05/11/john-miller-awarded-2011-iop-gravit… Additional Information: http://www.iop.org/activity/groups/subject/gp/prize/page_40694.html I am delighted to announce that the 2011 IOP Gravitational Physics Group’s thesis prize, co-sponsored by Classical and Quantum Gravity, has been awarded to Dr John Miller, currently at Australian National University (ANU), for his excellent work on non-Gaussian beams and optomechanical parametric instabilities in gravitational wave detectors and their impact on designing future gravitational wave detectors. Dr Miller completed his thesis at Glasgow University under the supervision of Prof. Ken Strain and Prof. Norna Robertson The thesis is available to download from Glasgow University’s website. http://theses.gla.ac.uk/1869/ Details of the prize, including nomination instructions for the 2012 prize, can be found at the Gravitational Physics Group’s web page. http://www.iop.org/activity/groups/subject/gp/prize/page_40694.html Sincerely Clifford M Will Editor in Chief Classical and Quantum Gravity +++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++ 3.7 Call for Nominations: Fellows of the GRG Society (revised mailing address) ------------------------------------------------------------------------------ Announcement on Hyperspace@AEI: http://hyperspace.aei.mpg.de/2012/05/07/call-for-nominations-fellows-of-the… The International Society on General Relativity and Gravitation has instituted Fellowships to recognize its outstanding members. In a steady state we expect the total number of Fellows to constitute approximately 10% of the membership. To reach this goal and to ensure that younger members of our Society are also elected in the initial rounds, the following procedure will be used: i) Fellows will be elected once every three years, prior to the GRG conferences. For the first two rounds (GR19 and GR20), at least half of the number of Fellows elected in any one round should be of 45 years or less of age on the day the conference begins. ii) The fellowship committee for GR20 will be asked to elect 10 fellows. Thereafter, the committees will elect approximately 1.5% of the members per 3-year cycle. The precise number for each round will be established at the prior GR meeting by the Executive Committee of the Society. The primary criterion for election is excellence in research, especially the impact of candidate’s work on the development of our field. The candidate will be generally expected to have made additional contributions to the field, for example through service, and/or outreach, and/or books and monographs, etc. In exceptional cases such criteria could constitute the primary basis of nomination provided these activities have had influence on a significant portion of our community, not just the home institution of the candidate. Nominations are due by December 31st, 2012. Any member of the Society can make nominations but self-nominations will not be considered. The nomination packet will consist of: i) A letter summarizing the basis for nomination; ii) An up-to-date CV and publication list of the nominee; iii) 1 to 3 supporting letters from members of the Society, and, iv) A proposed citation. Once made, the nomination will remain active for two additional rounds. Further details can be found at http://www.isgrg.org/fellowrules.php Electronic nominations in the form of emailed PDF files are strongly preferred. The nomination PDF files should be sent to the Chair of the Fellowship committee, Clifford Will (cmw[AT]wuphys.wustl.edu) If an electronic nomination is not possible, a single paper copy of the nomination should be mailed or faxed to Clifford Will at Department of Physics University of Florida P.O. Box 118440 Gainesville FL 32611-8440 Fax: 1-352-392-0524 The elected Fellows will be inducted during the Business Meeting of the Society at GR 20 in Warsaw, 8 – 13 July, 2013.

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[Hyperspace-list] Hyperspace Bulletin for May 2012
by hyperspace＠aei.mpg.de 02 May '12

02 May '12

################################################################# Table of Contents ################################################################# 1. Conferences 1.1 International Workshop Relativistic Positioning Systems and their Scientific Applications (2nd announc.) 1.2 The Thirteenth Marcel Grossmann Meeting (MG13) in Stockholm (5th circ.) 1.3 Black Holes, Gravitational Waves and Cosmology 1.4 The Time Machine Factory (2nd announcement) 1.5 Rattle and Shine: Gravitational Wave and Electromagnetic Studies of Compact Binary Mergers, KITP, Santa Barbara 1.6 15th Capra Meeting in Maryland (2nd circ.) 1.7 Yukawa International Seminar 2013 "Gravitatinal waves: Revolution in astronomy and astrophysics" 1.8 2nd BNU International Summer School on Quantum Gravity, Beijing (China) 2. Jobs 2.1 PhD position in Analytical and Numerical Methods in General Relativity at the AEI 2.2 PhD Position in Quantum Gravity at Radboud University, Nijmegen, The Netherlands 2.3 Tenure Track Position in Quantum Gravity at Radboud University, Nijmegen, The Netherlands 3. News 3.1 Living Reviews in Relativity: "Quantum Measurement Theory in Gravitational-Wave Detectors" 3.2 "Quantum Gravity" by C. Kiefer (third edition) ================================================================= 1. Conferences ================================================================= 1.1 International Workshop Relativistic Positioning Systems and their Scientific Applications (2nd announc.) ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------ Announcement on Hyperspace@AEI: http://hyperspace.aei.mpg.de/2012/04/30/international-workshop-relativistic… Starting Wed, Sep 19, 2012 to Fri, Sep 21, 2012 Location: Brdo near Kranj, Slovenia Additional Information: http://rgnss.fmf.uni-lj.si/workshop Dear colleagues, We are pleased to invite you to register for the three-day international workshop on "Relativistic Positioning Systems and their Scientific Applications" to be held at Brdo near Kranj, Slovenia, on 19-21 September 2012. The workshop is organized by the Faculty of Mathematics and Physics of the University of Ljubljana and ESA Advanced Concepts Team. The goal of the workshop is to bring together those interested in the development of Relativistic Positioning Systems and, in particular, to share ideas and establish future lines of research and collaborations. Topics of the workshop include: * Formulation of relativistic positioning systems and properties of emission coordinates * Application to GNSS, relativistic reference frames, pulsar-based navigation and localization * Inter-satellite links and autonomous GNSS * Relativistic celestial mechanics (coordinate systems, Hamiltonian techniques...) * Application to Earth sciences, astronomy and metrology Also other contributions in line with the aims of the workshop will be considered. Registration is open at http://rgnss.fmf.uni-lj.si/workshop and will close on 1st July 2012. There is no registration fee. The proceedings of the workshop will be published. Best regards, SOC e-mail: rps-soc[AT]esa.int phone: +386 1 4766 505 Confirmed invited speakers: Bartolome Coll (Universitat de València) Angelo Tartaglia (Politecnico di Torino) Francisco Amarillo Fernandez (ESA) Andrej Čadež (Univ. of Ljubljana) Scientific organizing committee: Bertram Arbesser-Rastburg (ESA) Sante Carloni (ESA) Pacôme Delva (Obs. Paris) Clovis Jacinto de Matos (ESA) Rune Floberghagen (ESA) Uroš Kostić (Univ. of Ljubljana) Leopold Summerer (ESA) +++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++ 1.2 The Thirteenth Marcel Grossmann Meeting (MG13) in Stockholm (5th circ.) --------------------------------------------------------------------------- Announcement on Hyperspace@AEI: http://hyperspace.aei.mpg.de/2012/04/30/the-thirteenth-marcel-grossmann-mee… Starting Sun, Jul 01, 2012 to Sat, Jul 07, 2012 Location: Stockholm, Sweden Additional Information: http://www.icra.it/MG/mg13/ The meeting website has recently added information about public talks, accompanying person activities, the Tuesday evening reception at City Hall where the Nobel Prize ceremonies are held, and the Wednesday evening banquet location. The plenary program is being updated daily as the speakers submit their abstracts. +++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++ 1.3 Black Holes, Gravitational Waves and Cosmology --------------------------------------------------- Announcement on Hyperspace@AEI: http://hyperspace.aei.mpg.de/2012/04/30/black-holes-gravitational-waves-and… Starting Wed, May 16, 2012 to Sat, May 19, 2012 Location: Rome/Pescara, Italy Additional Information: http://www.icra.it/ICRA_Networkshops/rjr_70/ This is a meeting in celebration of the 70th birthday of Remo Ruffini on the 40th anniversary of the book "Black Holes, Gravitational Waves and Cosmology" by Martin Rees, Remo Ruffini and John Archibald Wheeler. Many of us began our research as students working with Remo, who has had an important influence on the direction of our careers. We members of the organizing committee especially look forward to this occasion to meet again with the many friends our association with Remo has led to over the years. More details will follow at the conference website: http://www.icra.it/ICRA_Networkshops/rjr_70/ but it would be most useful if you could email Federica Di Berardino at secretariat[AT]icranet.org with some indication if it will be possible for you to participate in this event. We send you our best wishes, Volodia Belinski, Carlo Luciano Bianco, Pascal Chardonnet, Thibault Damour, Nathalie Deruelle, Jaan Einasto, Robert Jantzen, Mario Novello, Jorge Rueda, SheSheng Xue, Gregory Vereshchagin +++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++ 1.4 The Time Machine Factory (2nd announcement) ----------------------------------------------- Announcement on Hyperspace@AEI: http://hyperspace.aei.mpg.de/2012/04/30/the-time-machine-factory-second-ann… Starting Sun, Oct 14, 2012 to Fri, Oct 19, 2012 Location: Turin, Italy Additional Information: http://timemachine.polito.it This is the second announcement of the conference “The Time Machine Factory”, that will be held in Torino (Italy), from October 14 to 19, 2012, and is organized by INAF-Osservatorio Astrofisico of Torino, Istituto Nazionale di Ricerca Metrologica and Politecnico di Torino. Important information for registration can be found below. On behalf of the SOC, SOC Chairs, Mariateresa Crosta Marco Gramegna Matteo Luca Ruggiero SCIENTIFIC RATIONALE The conference focuses on causality and nonlocality in physics, with emphasis on its implications with time machines. In particular these issues will be dealt with from the viewpoints of General Relativity and Quantum Mechanics. The topological nature of spacetime in the framework of Quantum Mechanics suggests that both causality and locality need to be analyzed at a fundamental level, also by allowing the existence of entities that are more elementary than the spatial dimensions of everyday’s life. The interplay of these entities influences the very nature of time, and their dynamics could lead to understand the emergence of the arrow of time. Focusing on these issues would help to understand the ultimate nature of time, its role in fundamental physics and in the formation of the Universe, thus allowing for a better comprehension of its large scale structure, with apparent implications on the astronomical reference systems. INFORMATION Information about the conference, such as scientific program, venue, travel, accommodation, events and social activities, important deadlines and so on, are available at the web page http://timemachine.polito.it REGISTRATION *Participants Early registration, from April 15 to June 1, 250 euro Regular Registration, from June 2 to September 1, 350 euro Registration fee includes registration kits, coffee breaks and conference dinner, as well as access to all satellite events. Participants wishing to submit a contribution should register no later than June 1. *Accompanying persons Early registration, from April 15 to June 1, 100 euro; Regular registration, from June 2 to September 1, 150 euro This fee includes only visitor registration kits, conference dinner, and access to all satellite events. More information at the webpage http://tinyurl.com/TM2012reg SCIENTIFIC ORGANIZING COMMITTEE Mariateresa Crosta (chair, INAF,OATo); Marco Gramegna (co-chair, INRIM); Matteo Luca Ruggiero (co-chair, Politecnico di Torino, INFN); Orfeu Bertolami (Dep. Physics and Astronomy – Univ. Porto); Donato Bini (Ist. M. Picone – CNR, ICRA, INFN); Salvatore Capozziello (Dep. Phys. Sciences – Univ. Napoli, INFN); Sandro Coriasco (Dep. Mathematics – Univ. Torino); Fernando de Felice (Dep. Physics – Univ. Padova); Marco Genovese (INRIM); Robert T. Janzen (Villanova University, ICRA); Christophe Leponcin-Lafitte (SYRTE, Obs. de Paris); Oldrich Semerak (Inst. Th. Physics – Charles University, Prague), Angelo Tartaglia (DISAT – Politecnico di Torino, INFN). LOCAL ORGANIZING COMMITTEE Monica Capone (Dep. Mathematics – Univ. Torino, INFN); Tullia Carriero (INAF,OATo); Sandro Coriasco (Dep. Mathematics – Univ. Torino); Mariateresa Crosta (INAF,OATo); Marco Gramegna (INRIM); Matteo Luca Ruggiero (DISAT – Politecnico di Torino, INFN); Willy Merz (Fondazione Merz); Enzo Obiso (PHOS). +++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++ 1.5 Rattle and Shine: Gravitational Wave and Electromagnetic Studies of Compact Binary Mergers, KITP, Santa Barbara ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Announcement on Hyperspace@AEI: http://hyperspace.aei.mpg.de/2012/04/20/rattle-and-shine-gravitational-wave… Starting Mon, Jul 30, 2012 to Fri, Aug 03, 2012 Location: Santa Barbara, CA, USA Additional Information: http://www.kitp.ucsb.edu/activities/dbdetails?acro=chirps-c12 The direct detection of gravitational waves will be a transformative event in 21st century astronomy. Construction of the Advanced Laser Interferometer Gravitational wave Observatory (aLIGO) and Virgo are well underway; aLIGO is expected to be complete in 2014. After a commissioning period to reach design sensitivity, the first detection of gravitational waves is virtually assured. Despite a great deal of progress in the field, many open problems remain in the field of binary neutron stars (BNS), binary black holes (BBHs) and neutron star--black hole (NSBH) binaries. These coalescing compact objects are of fundamental interest to physicists and astronomers. Gravitational waves from binary black holes will allow us to test general relativity in the strong-field regime. Binaries containing neutron stars will probe the equation of state of nuclear matter. Observed coalescence rates will shed light on the processes driving stellar evolution. The combined observation of gravit ational and electromagnetic waves from a source will open a new window on physics and astronomy. All of these goals require a detailed understanding of both the gravitational waveforms emitted and their electromagnetic counterparts. A combined observing campaign uniting electromagnetic and gravitational-wave astronomers with astrophysicists, source modelers, and nuclear physicists will be essential to realize the promise of the gravitational-wave sky. To this end, the KITP conference "Rattle and Shine" will address the following points: 1. Detection. The waveforms for binary neutron star mergers are well understood, but systems with significant spin (NSBH and BBH) remain an unsolved problem. How do we best combine the efforts of the source modeling and gravitational-wave astronomy communities to search for these systems? Similarly, the wide range of potential electromagnetic outcomes (from gamma-rays to radio waves) remains largely unexplored. What are the predictions for the disk and remnant object when BNS or NSBH systems merge? What electromagnetic counterparts will be produced? What is the best strategy for coordinating joint gravitational-wave and electromagnetic searches and detections? 2. Measurement. With the detection of gravitational waves and electromagnetic counterparts, how do we measure the astrophysical quantities (mass, spin, luminosity distance, etc.) of compact binary coalescence? How accurately (and quickly) do we need to be able to locate compact binary sources to be able to do interesting astronomy and astrophysics? How accurately can we predict nucleosynthetic yields from BNS mergers and use these mergers to probe nuclear physics? Could we distinguish a BNS merger from a NSBH merger based only on SGRB observations, and thus provide an independent mass constraint for GW observations? What is the emission of an off-axis BNS or NSBH merger? 3. Interpretation. Having detected and measured the parameters of coalescing compact binaries, what can be learned about the distribution and evolution of the sources? About the nature of general relativity? About the processes driving the emission of gravitational waves? About cosmological parameters? The program will lay the foundation for joint gravitational wave and electromagnetic observatories to be used as laboratories for fundamental physics and astronomy. The conference will bring together several different communities, and so we will ask the invited speakers to give a survey of the state of the field for a broad audience, as well as talks on the latest developments and directions for future research. We intend to have plenty of time for discussion following the talks and the session chairs welcome input from participants for talking points during the discussion. If you would like to raise any issues, please contact the chair of the session. The conference program is designed to allow for lots of interaction between the speakers and the participants. +++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++ 1.6 15th Capra Meeting in Maryland (2nd circ.) ---------------------------------------------- Announcement on Hyperspace@AEI: http://hyperspace.aei.mpg.de/2012/04/16/15th-capra-meeting-in-maryland-2nd-… Starting Mon, Jun 11, 2012 to Fri, Jun 15, 2012 Location: College Park, MD, USA Additional Information: http://www.cscamm.umd.edu/programs/capra12/ This is the second announcement of the 2012 Capra Meeting on Radiation Reaction, which will be held in the Center for Scientific Computation and Mathematical Modeling (CSCAMM) at the University of Maryland, College Park, from June 11 to June 15, 2012. Following the Capra tradition, the meeting will focus primarily on aspects of the self-force in general relativity, although broader topics related to gravitational-wave physics will also be discussed. A block of hotel rooms at a reduced rate has been booked for participants. More information and a registration form can be found on the conference website: http://www.cscamm.umd.edu/programs/capra12/ For full consideration, applications to participate and/or abstracts must be submitted by May 1, 2012. +++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++ 1.7 Yukawa International Seminar 2013 "Gravitatinal waves: Revolution in astronomy and astrophysics" ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Announcement on Hyperspace@AEI: http://hyperspace.aei.mpg.de/2012/04/12/yukawa-international-seminar-2013-g… Starting Sun, Jun 02, 2013 to Fri, Jun 07, 2013 Location: Kyoto, Japan Additional Information: http://www2.yukawa.kyoto-u.ac.jp/~ykis2013/conference/index.html We are pleased to announce that Yukawa International Seminar 2013 (YKIS2013) entitled "Gravitational waves: Revolution in astronomy and astrophysics" will be held from June 2-7 in 2013 at Yukawa Institute for Theoretical Physics, Kyoto University. Associated with this conference, we plan to hold a one-month workshop on gravitational waves and numerical relativity. The details will be updated in http://www2.yukawa.kyoto-u.ac.jp/~ykis2013/conference/index.html The confirmed invited speakers on YKIS2013 at present include Edo Berger (Harvard) Emanuele Berti (Mississippi) Patrick Brady (Wisconsin-Milwaukee) Bernd Bruegmann (Jena) Alessandra Buonanno (Maryland) John Friedman (Wisconsin-Milwaukee) Kostas Kokkotas (Tuebingen) Luis Lehner (Perimeter) Christian Ott (Caltech) Tsvi Piran (Hebrew) B. S. Sathyaprakash (Cardiff) Bernard Schutz (Albert-Einstein Institute) Patrick Sutton (Cardiff) and more SOC of the YKIS2013: Masaru Shibata (chair), Misao Sasaki, Takahiro Tanaka (YITP) Masaki Ando, Takashi Nakamura, Naoki Seto (Kyoto) Takaaki Kajita, Kazuaki Kuroda, Seiji Kawamura, Masatate Ohashi (ICRR) Nobuyuki Kanda (Osaka CU), Hideyuki Tagoshi (Osaka) +++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++ 1.8 2nd BNU International Summer School on Quantum Gravity, Beijing (China) --------------------------------------------------------------------------- Announcement on Hyperspace@AEI: http://hyperspace.aei.mpg.de/2012/04/10/2nd-bnu-international-summer-school… Starting Sun, Aug 12, 2012 to Sat, Aug 18, 2012 Location: Beijing, China Additional Information: http://physics.bnu.edu.cn/summerschool/ The Beijing Normal University (BNU) International Summer School on Quantum Gravity is intended to provide a pedagogical introduction for graduate students and young post-docs to the main fields closely related to loop quantum gravity. Topics include: Loop quantum gravity, Loop quantum cosmology, Spin foams, Group field theory, Regge calculus Lecturers: - Abhay Ashtekar (Penn State Univ, USA) - Benjamin Bahr (Cambridge Univ, UK) - John Barrett (Univ of Nottingham, UK) - Jonathan Engle (Florida Atlantic Univ, USA) - Thomas Krajewski (Univ of Provence and CPT Marseille, France) - Jerzy Lewandowski (Univ of Warsaw, Poland) - Etera Livine (ENS de Lyon, France) The working language is English. But participation is limited. Students and young post-docs who are interested to attend the school are invited to look up the registration information and register at the website: http://physics.bnu.edu.cn/summerschool/ The deadline for online application is May 31, 2012. Organization Committee: ASHTEKAR Abhay (Penn State) BANERJEE Kinjal (BNU) DING You (BJTU) GAO Sijie (BNU) HUANG Chaoguang (IHEP, CAS) LEWANDOWSKI Jerzy (Warsaw) LIU Wenbiao (BNU) LU Hong (BNU) MA Yongge (BNU) ZHOU Bin (BNU) Secretaries: GUO Haibiao (BNU) HAN Yu (BNU) WANG Jingbo (BNU) ZHOU Zhenhua (BNU) Contact: QGschool[AT]bnu.edu.cn Yongge Ma On behalf of the Organization Committee Dept of Physics Beijing Normal University Beijing 100875, CHINA Tel: +86-10-58809499 Fax: +86-10-62209742 Webpage: http://physics.bnu.edu.cn/application/research/gravity/LQG/eng/research.html Travel support for U.S. Students and Post-docs to attend the 2nd BNU School on Quantum Gravity The 2nd Beijing Normal University School on quantum gravity will take place from August 13th to August 18th, 2012. Although the hosts of the school will be able to partially cover local costs of attendees, they will not be able to cover all costs. Because of this, we have applied for, and will likely receive, NSF funds to provide partial travel support to a number of U.S. students and beginning post-docs to attend this school. We expect to be able to cover at least half the plane fare of the selected applicants. Interested young researchers should send a CV, list of publications and, if a student, a recommendation letter from your advisor, to jonathan.engle[AT]fau.edu, no later than Friday, May 18th, 2012. In the email, please also indicate whether you have access to other funding sources, and, if so, which ones. The final selection will be made by a committee consisting of scientists from three different universities. The organizers of the BNU school have graciously agreed to accept the selected participants. Nevertheless, it is still necessary for students to register and request partial support for local costs directly at the main school website http://physics.bnu.edu.cn/summerschool, in addition to applying for this NSF support. ================================================================= 2. Jobs ================================================================= 2.1 PhD position in Analytical and Numerical Methods in General Relativity at the AEI ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Announcement on Hyperspace@AEI: http://hyperspace.aei.mpg.de/2012/04/26/phd-position-in-analytical-and-nume… Institution: Potsdam, Germany Deadline: Fri, Jun 01, 2012 Additional Information: http://www.aei.mpg.de/english/imprs/imprsI1/application/index.html The Max Planck Institute for Gravitational Physics (Albert Einstein Institute) invites applications for a DFG-funded PhD position in the division of Geometric Analysis and Gravitation. The position will be part of the International Max Planck Research School (IMPRS). The successful candidate will work with Dr. Oliver Rinne on a combination of analytical and numerical methods applied to partial differential equations arising in general relativity and related branches of applied mathematics and theoretical physics. Topics include but are not limited to: global methods for the Einstein equations, gravitational collapse, critical phenomena, black hole stability, and Ricci flow. Applicants should hold or be about to complete a degree in mathematics, physics or a closely related discipline. Some previous exposure to or keen interest in relativity as well as numerical work is desirable. The starting date of the position is flexible and could be as early as the autumn of 2012. Funding is for three years and is according to the German federal employee scale TVoeD E13 (75%). Details of the application procedure and an online application form can be found at http://www.aei.mpg.de/english/imprs/imprsI1/application/index.html Evaluation of applications will begin on 1 June 2012 and will continue until the position is filled. The Max Planck Society is an equal opportunity employer and is committed to diversity and inclusion in all aspects of recruiting and employment. For questions about the position please contact oliver.rinne[AT]aei.mpg.de. +++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++ 2.2 PhD Position in Quantum Gravity at Radboud University, Nijmegen, The Netherlands ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------ Announcement on Hyperspace@AEI: http://hyperspace.aei.mpg.de/2012/04/10/phd-position-in-quantum-gravity-at-… Institution: Nijmegen, The Netherlands Deadline: Wed, May 16, 2012 Additional Information: http://www.staff.science.uu.nl/~loll0101 One or more PhD positions in quantum gravity will become available in the autumn of 2012 in the new research group headed by Prof. Renate Loll at the Institute for Mathematics, Astrophysics and Particle Physics (IMAPP) of the Radboud University in Nijmegen, The Netherlands. The successful applicants will work under the supervision of Loll in a group consisting of several postdocs and PhD students, an assistant professor (to be appointed) and international visitors. This activity forms part of a new research focus on "Quantum Gravity" at the IMAPP, aimed at uncovering the fundamental quantum dynamics of space and time, and their interaction with matter. The IMAPP provides an attractive working environment for foundational, front-line research. Besides Theoretical High-Energy Physics, of which the new group forms a part, Mathematical Physics, Astrophysics and Experimental High-Energy Physics are all strongly represented. Applicants must have a university degree in (theoretical) physics at masters level or equivalent and proven abilities in theoretical physics and mathematics. Prior to applying, candidates should inform themselves about the research done in Loll's group by consulting her webpage (see URL) and the publications of group members. The PhD positions are for four years, which is the expected time for obtaining a doctoral degree in the Netherlands, and are subject to a review after one year. Applications should be sent electronically as a single pdf-file to R. Loll at the contact email address given and consist of a cover letter, CV, transcripts of university grades and degrees, a statement of research interests and reasons for undertaking doctoral research in quantum gravity, as well as the names of at least two senior scientists who are in a position to judge the applicant's suitability for a PhD in theoretical physics. Review of applications will start on May 16 and will continue until the positions are filled. +++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++ 2.3 Tenure Track Position in Quantum Gravity at Radboud University, Nijmegen, The Netherlands --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Announcement on Hyperspace@AEI: http://hyperspace.aei.mpg.de/2012/04/10/tenure-track-position-in-quantum-gr… Institution: Nijmegen, The Netherlands Additional Information: http://www.ru.nl/vacatures/details/details_vacature_0?recid=508697 As part of a new initiative of the Institute for Mathematics, Astrophysics and Particle Physics (IMAPP) and the Department of Theoretical High-Energy Physics in particular, we are looking for an Assistant Professor in Quantum Gravity (Tenure Track). This position will further strengthen the new research focus on Quantum Gravity, which was initiated with the recent hiring of Prof. Renate Loll, who will be joining the Institute with her working group. Aim of the research is to uncover the fundamental quantum dynamics of space and time, and their interaction with matter. The new initiative is embedded in the nationally defined focus area “Quantum Universe” of the Dutch Sector Plan “Physics and Chemistry”. Applicants must be experts in quantum gravity and theoretical high-energy physics with a substantial international track record of research in this area, and willing to play an active role in building up the new research focus “Quantum Gravity”. The IMAPP provides an attractive working environment for foundational, front-line research, ranging from pure math to collider physics, with the ultimate aim of understanding the origin and structure of our universe. The set-up of the Institute facilitates interactions across traditional boundaries between the disciplines represented in it, and the incoming assistant professor is expected to strengthen ties with existing related lines of research. Please see URL for more information and how to apply. ================================================================= 3. News ================================================================= 3.1 Living Reviews in Relativity: "Quantum Measurement Theory in Gravitational-Wave Detectors" ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Announcement on Hyperspace@AEI: http://hyperspace.aei.mpg.de/2012/04/26/living-reviews-in-relativity-quantu… Additional Information: http://www.livingreviews.org/lrr-2012-5 Living Reviews in Relativity has published a new review article on "Quantum Measurement Theory in Gravitational-Wave Detectors" by Stefan L. Danilishin and Farid Ya. Khalili on April 26, 2012. Please find the abstract and further details below. ------------------ PUB.NO. lrr-2012-5 Danilishin, Stefan and Khalili, Farid Ya. "Quantum Measurement Theory in Gravitational-Wave Detectors" ACCEPTED: 2012-03-02 PUBLISHED: 2012-04-26 FULL ARTICLE AT: http://www.livingreviews.org/lrr-2012-5 ABSTRACT: The fast progress in improving the sensitivity of the gravitational-wave (GW) detectors, we all have witnessed in the recent years, has propelled the scientific community to the point, when quantum behaviour of such immense measurement devices as kilometer-long interferometers starts to matter. The time, when their sensitivity will be mainly limited by the quantum noise of light is round the corner, and finding the ways how to make it lower will become a necessity. Therefore the primary goal we pursued in this review was to familiarize a broad spectrum of readers with the theory of quantum measurements in the very form it finds application in the area of gravitational-wave detection. We focus on how quantum noise arises in gravitational wave interferometers and what limitations it imposes on the achievable sensitivity. We start from the very basic concepts and gradually advance to the general linear quantum measurement theory and its application to the calculation of quantum noise in the contemporary and planned interferometric detectors of gravitational radiation of the first and second generation. Special attention is paid to the concept of Standard Quantum Limit and the methods of its surmounting. UPCOMING ARTICLES AT: http://relativity.livingreviews.org/Articles/upcoming.html +++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++ 3.2 "Quantum Gravity" by C. Kiefer (third edition) -------------------------------------------------- Announcement on Hyperspace@AEI: http://hyperspace.aei.mpg.de/2012/04/17/c-kiefer-quantum-gravity-third-edit… Additional Information: http://ukcatalogue.oup.com/product/9780199585205.do Claus Kiefer: "Quantum Gravity" (Third Edition) International Series of Monographs on Physics 155, 408 pages Oxford University Press 2012 Table of Contents: 1: Why quantum gravity? 2: Covariant approaches to quantum gravity 3: Parametrized and relational systems 4: Hamiltonian formulation of general relativity 5: Quantum geometrodynamics 6: Quantum gravity with connections and loops 7: Quantization of black holes 8: Quantum cosmology 9: String theory 10: Phenomenology, decoherence, and the arrow of time For more information, see: http://ukcatalogue.oup.com/product/9780199585205.do

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[Hyperspace-list] Hyperspace Bulletin for April 2012
by hyperspace＠aei.mpg.de 02 Apr '12

02 Apr '12

################################################################# Table of Contents ################################################################# 1. Conferences 1.1 Thirteenth Marcel Grossmann Meeting (MG13) in Stockholm (4th circ.) 1.2 2012 Conference on Computational Physics (CCP2012), Kobe (Japan) 1.3 Spanish Relativity Meeting in Portugal ERE2012 (2nd circ.) 1.4 First VESF School on Advanced Detectors of Gravitational Waves, Cascina, (Italy) 1.5 CoQuS Summer School 2012 "Quantum Physics meets Gravity", Vienna, Austria 1.6 BritGrav 12 in Southampton, UK (2nd circular) 1.7 Relativistic Positioning Systems and their Scientific Applications, Brdo (Slovenia) 1.8 Xth School of Cosmology in Cargese: Gravitational Lenses 2. Jobs 2.1 Lectureship position in Mathematics at University of York, UK 2.2 Copernicus Center Scholarship for PhD Researchers, Krakow, Poland 2.3 Copernicus Center Scholarship for Postdoctoral Researchers, Krakow, Poland 2.4 Postdoc in quantum theory at Imperial College 2.5 Postdoctoral position in Cosmology at Cambridge, UK 2.6 1-yr postdoctoral position in theoretical gravitational physics at Bishop's University 3. News 3.1 New Book: 'Relativistic Cosmology' by G. Ellis, R. Maartens and M. MacCallum 3.2 From Black Clouds to Black Holes by J V Narlikar (3rd edition) 3.3 Highlights and Conclusions of the Chalonge 15th Paris Cosmology Colloquium 2011 3.4 Living Reviews in Relativity: "Gravitational-Wave Data Analysis" (major update) 3.5 "Vignettes in Gravitation and Cosmology" by Sriramkumar and Seshadri 3.6 New book: "3+1 Formalism in General Relativity" by Eric Gourgoulhon ================================================================= 1. Conferences ================================================================= 1.1 Thirteenth Marcel Grossmann Meeting (MG13) in Stockholm (4th circ.) ------------------------------------------------------------------------ Announcement on Hyperspace@AEI: http://hyperspace.aei.mpg.de/2012/03/31/thirteenth-marcel-grossmann-meeting… Starting Sun, Jul 01, 2012 to Sat, Jul 07, 2012 Location: Stockholm, Sweden Additional Information: http://www.icra.it/MG/mg13/ The list of 72 parallel sessions (http://www.icra.it/mg/mg13/parallel_sessions.htm) is now ready and interested participants can register themselves for the meeting and submit a short abstract for the parallel session of their choice. A preliminary list of confirmed invited plenary speakers is also available at http://www.icra.it/mg/mg13/invited_speakers.htm . Note that no more than two abstracts should be submitted with exactly the same author list in order to keep the parallel sessions manageable. A few more parallel sessions might be added in the near future. Early registration at 350€ is now possible extending through May 25, 2012, after which the registration fee will be 400€. The student fee is 150€. Abstracts for parallel session presentations must be submitted by June 15, 2012, but preferably at the time of registration and as early as possible. Chairpersons have been asked to give submitters preliminary judgments of abstracts for oral and poster presentation requests as they are received in order to create their programs, so delaying submission of an abstract decreases its chances of receiving an oral presentation. If a session receives too many worthy abstracts for oral presentation in one afternoon session, there is the possibility of splitting it into two sessions, while some pressure will be relieved by having poster sessions to allow presentation of excess abstracts. MG13 will take place July 1-7, 2012 at Stockholm University in Stockholm, Sweden. Preregistration will take place Sunday, July 1, and the meeting will officially open Monday morning with the Marcel Grossmann awards announcement. During the six day conference a wide variety of topics will be discussed in the morning plenary sessions beginning with mathematical topics on Monday, quantum aspects of gravity on Tuesday, precision tests of general relativity on Wednesday, relativistic astrophysics on Thursday, cosmology and astroparticle physics on Friday and the latest scientific news and the history of physics Saturday. There will be five plenary lectures each morning and up to twenty parallel sessions in the four weekday afternoons excluding Wednesday, which is left free for a trip and the evening conference banquet. The plenary lectures will be held in the Aula Magna lecture hall and the parallel sessions at the AlbaNova University Center, both easily reachable by public transp ortation from the city center. In addition to the Wednesday evening banquet, there will be a reception by the mayor of Stockholm Tuesday evening, and popular level science lectures open to the participants and their accompanying persons and to the general public on Monday, Thursday and Friday evenings. We have added some additional topics to the original program and parallel sessions. In particular in view of the expected July 4 announcement of the LHC at the Rochester conference in Australia and its astrophysical implications, we have added a special parallel session on astroparticle physics on Friday afternoon, chaired by Carlo Dionisi and Luciano Maiani who will report on these developments in the Saturday morning plenary session. Since 1975, the Marcel Grossmann Meetings (on Recent Developments in Theoretical and Experimental General Relativity, Gravitation, and Relativistic Field Theories) have been organized in order to provide opportunities for discussing recent advances in gravitation, general relativity and relativistic field theories, emphasizing mathematical foundations, physical predictions and experimental tests. The objective of these meetings is to elicit exchange among scientists that may deepen our understanding of spacetime structures as well as to review the status of ongoing experiments aimed at testing Einstein’s theory of gravitation either from the ground or from space. +++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++ 1.2 2012 Conference on Computational Physics (CCP2012), Kobe (Japan) -------------------------------------------------------------------- Announcement on Hyperspace@AEI: http://hyperspace.aei.mpg.de/2012/03/30/coference-on-computational-physics-… Starting Sun, Oct 14, 2012 to Thu, Oct 18, 2012 Location: Kobe, Japan Additional Information: http://www.ile.osaka-u.ac.jp/CCP2012/ We are pleased to announce that this year the Conference on Computational Physics will be held in Kobe (Japan), next to the K computer (presently ranked first of the TOP500). The conference will also celebrate the opening of the K computer for shared use, starting from November 2012. Purpose and concept of the CCP2012 The Conference on Computational Physics (CCP) is organized annually under the auspices of the Commission 20 of the IUPAP (International Union of Pure and Applied Physics). We propose to organize the Japanese CCP meeting a little differently from the previous ones. Our goal is to encourage strong communication among different fields and to foster new collaborations between fundamental research and applications, through the commonality of numerical methods. In particular, we will sort most of the parallel sessions on the basis of numerical methods, namely there will be a session on finite-difference methods, one on particle-dynamics methods, one on Monte Carlo methods, and so on, with contributions from different fields of physics, chemistry, biology, engineering, and related academic fields and industrial applications. More details will appear soon on the webpage: http://www.ile.osaka-u.ac.jp/CCP2012/ Registration and abstract submission will open on May 1st. Registration fees: 30000 yen (20000 yen for students) if paid before September 10, 2012. 35000 yen (25000 yen for students) if paid after September 10, 2012 +++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++ 1.3 Spanish Relativity Meeting in Portugal ERE2012 (2nd circ.) -------------------------------------------------------------- Announcement on Hyperspace@AEI: http://hyperspace.aei.mpg.de/2012/03/27/spanish-relativity-meeting-in-portu… Starting Mon, Sep 03, 2012 to Fri, Sep 07, 2012 Location: Guimarães, Portugal Additional Information: http://w3.math.uminho.pt/~ERE2012 The Spanish Relativity Meeting (ERE) is an international conference devoted to Relativity and Gravitation and is supported by the Spanish Society of Gravitation and Relativity (SEGRE) http://www.segre.es/en/congresos.shtml. In 2012, the meeting will take place at the University of Minho in the town of Guimaraes (world heritage site and European capital of culture in 2012) from 3-7 September 2012. Participants are encouraged to send their contributions. Contributed talks will be grouped according to their topic and scheduled in parallel sessions in the afternoon. The deadline for conference registration and abstract submission is 10th of June, 2012. We advise participants to book accommodation well in advance as hotels in Guimaraes are expected to be more crowded than usual due to events of the European capital of culture. CONFIRMED INVITED SPEAKERS - Alan Rendall (Albert Einstein Institut, Golm, Germany) - Claes Uggla (Karlstad University, Sweden) - George Ellis (University of Cape Town, South Africa) - Gabriel Lopes-Cardoso (IST, Lisbon, Portugal) - Joerg Frauendiener (University of Otago, New Zealand) - José Edelstein (University of Santiago de Compostela, Spain) - Juan Valiente Kroon (Queen Mary, University of London, U.K.) - Laszlo Szabados (Hungarian Academy of Sciences, Budapest, Hungary) - Marc Mars (University of Salamanca, Spain) - Pau Figueras (University of Cambridge, U.K.) - Paul Tod (University of Oxford, U.K.) - Pedro Ferreira (University of Oxford, U.K.) - Peter Dunsby (University of Cape Town, South Africa) - Vitor Cardoso (IST, Lisbon, Portugal) EARLY REGISTRATION FEE - SEGRE members = 250EUR - Non SEGRE members = 280EUR The registration fee will cover lunches, refreshments, an abstract booklet, a conference folder and the proceedings volume. The following social events are also covered: - Welcome cocktail reception. - Half a day visit tour. - Conference dinner. GRANTS The SEGRE society has a limited number of grants to support some of the younger participants who are in the last years of their Ph.D., specially among those submitting a contribution to the conference. In order to apply for financial support please proceed to the ERE2012 website, "Grants" section. To find out more, please visit our conference website at http://w3.math.uminho.pt/~ERE2012 We hope to see you all in Guimaraes, The Local Organizing Committee (LOC) Alfonso Garcia-Parrado Estelita Vaz (Coordinator) Irene Brito Filipe Mena Filipe Moura M. Piedade Machado-Ramos Viktor Czinner +++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++ 1.4 First VESF School on Advanced Detectors of Gravitational Waves, Cascina, (Italy) ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------ Announcement on Hyperspace@AEI: http://hyperspace.aei.mpg.de/2012/03/27/first-vesf-school-on-advanced-detec… Starting Mon, Jun 18, 2012 to Fri, Jun 22, 2012 Location: Cascina (PI), Italy Additional Information: http://www.roma1.infn.it/teongrav/VESF/SCHOOL_2012.html June 18 - 22, 2012 Cascina, (Italy) The Virgo EGO Scientific Forum (VESF) is launching a new program in the year when Earth-based GW detectors - Virgo and LIGO - are gearing up towards second-generation Interferometers. The program will include topical courses focused on GW Advanced Detectors. It will offer a unique opportunity for young scientists already active or planning to work in that field, to get an in-depth training on specialized and state-of-the-art topics related to this research, like: science case, interferometer configuration, suspensions, thermal compensation, sensing and control, squeezing, lasers and more. +++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++ 1.5 CoQuS Summer School 2012 "Quantum Physics meets Gravity", Vienna, Austria ----------------------------------------------------------------------------- Announcement on Hyperspace@AEI: http://hyperspace.aei.mpg.de/2012/03/20/coqus-summer-school-2012-quantum-ph… Starting Mon, Sep 03, 2012 to Fri, Sep 07, 2012 Location: Vienna, Austria Additional Information: http://www.coqus.at/events/summerschool2012/ We are pleased to announce the 2012 CoQuS Summer School at the University of Vienna, devoted to the interplay between quantum mechanics and gravitation! This year's edition will be focused on four series of lectures held by international experts on both theoretical and experimental aspects of gravitational and quantum physics: · Carlo Rovelli (Marseille, FR) giving an introduction to quantum gravity for quantum physicists · Philippe Bouyer (Bordeaux, FR) , on experimental gravitation and geophysics with matter-wave sensors · Michele Heurs (Hannover, DE), on gravitational wave detection and quantum control · Ulf Leonhardt (St. Andrews, UK), on gravity analogues in quantum systems The summer school is open to interested advanced undergraduates, graduates and junior post-docs with a good background in quantum mechanics. No extensive background in gravitational physics is required, since this school aims to give an introduction to topics in gravitational physics to quantum physicists. Each series of lecture will consists of about 4 x 2 hours lectures. Participants are encouraged to present and discuss their own research during dedicated poster sessions. The registration fee for the summer school is 170 EUR. For more information and registration, please visit http://www.coqus.at/events/summerschool2012. The deadline for registration is June 26, 2012. Subscribe to our mailinglist at https://lists.univie.ac.at/mailman/listinfo/coqussummerschool to receive updates regarding the summer school. +++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++ 1.6 BritGrav 12 in Southampton, UK (2nd circular) ------------------------------------------------- Announcement on Hyperspace@AEI: http://hyperspace.aei.mpg.de/2012/03/16/britgrav-12-in-southampton-uk/ Starting Tue, Apr 03, 2012 to Wed, Apr 04, 2012 Location: Southampton, UK Additional Information: http://www.soton.ac.uk/~cjg/britgrav12 The 12th BritGrav (British Gravity) Meeting will be held on 3/4 April 2012 in the School of Mathematics, University of Southampton. The programme begins with coffee at 10.30 on Tuesday, with the first talk at 11, and ends at 4.30 on Wednesday. The meeting covers all areas of classical and quantum gravity including astrophysics, cosmology and experiments, and is intended to further collaborations and allow young researchers to showcase their work. There is no registration fee, and participants are responsible for their own accommodation, meals and travel. All PhD students and postdocs will be able to give a talk, others if time allows. Current planning is for all talks to last 20 minutes including questions. Tea and coffee will be provided in breaks, lunch can be bought on campus, and there will be a wine reception on Tuesday after the end of the talks programme. A small prize will be awarded for the best talk by a PhD student. If you plan to participate, please email Carsten Gundlach, cjg[AT]soton.ac.uk. If you want to give a talk, please send a title and abstract (which can be amended later). A list of the talks submitted so far can be found on http://www.soton.ac.uk/~cjg/britgrav12. A limited amount of funding will be available from the Gravitational Physics Group of the Institute of Physics to assist PhD students with travel and accommodation costs. If you want to apply for this, please let us know as soon as possible. Carsten Gundlach and Nils Andersson (University of Southampton) +++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++ 1.7 Relativistic Positioning Systems and their Scientific Applications, Brdo (Slovenia) --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Announcement on Hyperspace@AEI: http://hyperspace.aei.mpg.de/2012/03/13/relativistic-positioning-systems-an… Starting Wed, Sep 19, 2012 to Fri, Sep 21, 2012 Location: Brdo near Kranj, Slovenia Additional Information: http://rgnss.fmf.uni-lj.si/workshop We are pleased to announce that a three-days workshop on relativistic positioning systems and their scientific applications will be held at Brdo near Kranj, Slovenia, on 19-21 September 2012. The workshop is organized by the Faculty of Mathematics and Physics of the University of Ljubljana and ESA Advanced Concepts Team. The goal of the workshop is to bring together those interested in the development of Relativistic Positioning Systems (RPS) and, in particular, to share ideas and establish future lines of research and collaborations. Topics of the workshop include: * Formulation of relativistic positioning systems and properties of emission coordinates * Application to GNSS, relativistic reference frames, pulsar-based navigation and localization * Inter-satellite links and autonomous GNSS * Relativistic celestial mechanics (coordinate systems, Hamiltonian techniques...) * Application to Earth sciences, astronomy and metrology Also other contributions in line with the aims of the workshop will be considered. If you are interested to attend, please register before 1st July 2012. More information is available at http://rgnss.fmf.uni-lj.si/workshop. There is no registration fee. The proceedings of the workshop will be published. Confirmed invited speakers (Preliminay): Bartolome Coll (Universitat de Valencia) Angelo Tartaglia (Politecnico di Torino) Francisco Amarillo Fernandez (ESA) Andrej Cadez (Univ. of Ljubljana) Scientific organizing committee: Bertram Arbesser-Rastburg (ESA) Sante Carloni (ESA) Pacome Delva (Obs. Paris) Clovis Jacinto de Matos (ESA) Rune Floberghagen (ESA) Uros Kostic (Univ. of Ljubljana) Leopold Summerer (ESA) +++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++ 1.8 Xth School of Cosmology in Cargese: Gravitational Lenses ------------------------------------------------------------ Announcement on Hyperspace@AEI: http://hyperspace.aei.mpg.de/2012/03/06/xth-school-of-cosmology/ Starting Mon, Sep 17, 2012 to Sat, Sep 22, 2012 Location: Cargèse (Corsica), France Additional Information: http://www.cpt.univ-mrs.fr/~cosmo/EC2012/EcoleLuminy12_a.html Main topics: - Weak gravitational lensing (a tool to find the equation of state of dark energy). - Lensing galaxy clusters, the distribution of dark matter. - Strong gravitational lensing by galaxy clusters, and study the first galaxies at high resolution. - Extragalactic gravitational microlensing (quasars and dark matter). - Galaxy-galaxy gravitational lensing. ================================================================= 2. Jobs ================================================================= 2.1 Lectureship position in Mathematics at University of York, UK ----------------------------------------------------------------- Announcement on Hyperspace@AEI: http://hyperspace.aei.mpg.de/2012/03/28/lectureship-position-in-mathematics… Institution: York, UK Deadline: Mon, Apr 16, 2012 Additional Information: http://maths.york.ac.uk/www/node/12390 We are seeking to appoint at least two new lecturers to enhance our research and teaching. Applications are welcomed from well-qualified candidates interested in any of our existing areas of activity, with strong applications in the areas of Mathematical Finance or Statistics particularly encouraged. A successful candidate will possess an outstanding record of international research achievement, will contribute to the department’s teaching for both undergraduates and postgraduates, and play a part in the department’s administration. Details of the Mathematics Department may be found on the web pages at: http://maths.york.ac.uk/www/Home The two posts are full time and the salary range will be £35,938 - £44,166 per year. Contact reference: Professor Ed Corrigan, +44(0)1904 323074 edward.corrigan[AT]york.ac.uk +++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++ 2.2 Copernicus Center Scholarship for PhD Researchers, Krakow, Poland --------------------------------------------------------------------- Announcement on Hyperspace@AEI: http://hyperspace.aei.mpg.de/2012/03/19/copernicus-center-scholarship-for-p… Institution: Kraków, Poland Deadline: Tue, May 15, 2012 Additional Information: http://www.copernicuscenter.edu.pl/events/ The Copernicus Center Scholarship for PhD Researchers, funded by The John Templeton Foundation, is offered to individuals who hold a Master's degree (or equivalent) in the fields of: physics, cosmology, astronomy, mathematics, philosophy of science, history of science. The dissertations should be written in English and pertain to one of the following topics: (1) Noncommutative geometry and its application in physics; (2) Physical viability of metric nonlinear (higher derivative) gravity theories; (3) Scientific method at its limit. Philosophical consequences of aspects theories and models. The Copernicus Center offers two scholarships. The candidates should either already be PhD students (for no longer than 2 years before the deadline of the contest) or should begin PhD studies (alternately obtain the status of a visiting graduate student) before the start of the scholarship. The place of the PhD studies can be negotiated with the Copernicus Center, preferably at one of the Institutes with which the members of the group are affiliated. The scholarship in the amount of $1000 (gross amount before deductions which include: taxation,social security and health insurance; the scholarship will be converted to PLN using current exchange rate) is awarded for 18 months (proposed starting date October 2012). Eligibility: individuals who hold a Master's degree (or equivalent) in the fields of: physics, cosmology, astronomy, mathematics, philosophy of science, history of science (adequate to the proposed research project) and are fluent in English. Obligations: (1) Preparation of 2 research papers and 4 talks during the scholarship. (2) Preparation of the first draft of the PhD dissertation. The applications should include: (1) Motivation letter (2) CV + the list of academic achievements (courses and marks, transcript of records) (3) A scanned copy of the MA/MS diploma(s) or information on the expected date of their acquisition (4) Research project (dissertation outline) Apply to: info[AT]copernicuscenter.edu.pl (with the title: CCPHD) Application deadline: May, 15, 2012 For further information concerning the research team see webpage: http://www.copernicuscenter.edu.pl/research/104 All questions should be addressed to: info[AT]copernicuscenter.edu.pl +++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++ 2.3 Copernicus Center Scholarship for Postdoctoral Researchers, Krakow, Poland ------------------------------------------------------------------------------ Announcement on Hyperspace@AEI: http://hyperspace.aei.mpg.de/2012/03/19/copernicus-center-scholarship-for-p… Institution: Krakow, Poland Deadline: Tue, May 15, 2012 Additional Information: http://www.copernicuscenter.edu.pl/events/ The Copernicus Center Scholarship for Postdoctoral Researchers, funded by The John Templeton Foundation, is offered to researchers in the fields of: mathematics, mathematical physics, astrophysics and cosmology. The topic of the proposed research should pertain to one of the following issues: - Noncommutative geometry and its application in physics; - Physical viability of metric nonlinear (higher derivative) gravity theories; - Cosmology (with focus on symbolic computation in cosmology); - Scientific method at its limit. Philosophical consequences of aspects theories and models. Copernicus Center offers one scholarship for a postdoctoral stay at the Jagiellonian University at the Institute chosen by the researcher (Mathematics, Physics or Astronomy). The scholarship in the amount of $2000 (gross amount before deductions which include: taxation, social security and health insurance; the scholarship will be converted to PLN using current exchange rate) is awarded for 12 months (proposed starting date October 2012). Application deadline: May, 15, 2012 Eligibility: all researchers who have a PhD (in physics or astronomy or mathematics) awarded after 01.01.2006 (or who will have it awarded before the beginning of the scholarship) and are fluent in English. Application: Please send CV including the list of publications and a short resume of your PhD Thesis, letter of motivation, and a short description of the research project to: info[AT]copernicuscenter.edu.pl (with the title: CCPOSTDOC) The candidates should arrange the letter of recommendation to be sent directly to the above address. For further information concerning the research team see webpage: http://www.copernicuscenter.edu.pl/research/104 +++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++ 2.4 Postdoc in quantum theory at Imperial College ------------------------------------------------- Announcement on Hyperspace@AEI: http://hyperspace.aei.mpg.de/2012/03/16/postdoc-in-quantum-theory-at-imperi… Additional Information: http://www3.imperial.ac.uk/theoreticalphysics There will be a two-year EPSRC-funded postdoctoral position in the Theory Group of the Physics Department at Imperial College, starting no later than September 5, 2012, to work with Prof. Jonathan Halliwell on time in non-relativistic quantum theory, decoherence, emergent classicality and the quantum Zeno effect. Applicants should send their CV, publication list and 1-2 page research proposal to theory-job[AT]imperial.ac.uk and arrange for three referees to send letters to the same address. More detailed scientific enquiries should be addressed to j.halliwell[AT]imperial.ac.uk and more information about the research environment at Imperial College may be found on the website http://www3.imperial.ac.uk/theoreticalphysics. Applications received before March 31 2012 will receive full consideration. +++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++ 2.5 Postdoctoral position in Cosmology at Cambridge, UK ------------------------------------------------------- Announcement on Hyperspace@AEI: http://hyperspace.aei.mpg.de/2012/03/14/postdoctoral-position-in-cosmology-… Institution: Cambridge, UK Deadline: Wed, Apr 18, 2012 Additional Information: http://www.damtp.cam.ac.uk/research/postapp/help.html University of Cambridge Department of Applied Mathematics and Theoretical Physics Postdoctoral Research Associate 1 appointment Grade 7: 27,578 - 35,938 GBP per annum We invite applications for a postdoctoral research associate to join the Cambridge-Oxford collaboration "Establishing the Philosophy of Cosmology." The successful candidate will undertake research in the group's target areas such as - The issue of probability measures, including potential uses of anthropic reasoning - Space-time structure, both at very large and very small scales - The cosmological constant problem and other examples of 'fine-tuning' - Entropy, time and complexity in understanding the arrow(s) of time - Symmetries, invariants and their role in describing the Universe as a whole. Applicants with foundational interests outside these areas will also be considered. The appointment is for 20 months commencing in January 2013 and is based in the Relativity and Gravitation research group, within the Department of Applied Mathematics and Theoretical Physics. A parallel position will be created at the University of Oxford over the same period and applicants to Cambridge will also be considered for the Oxford post which has a similar job description. The successful candidate will have or be about to receive a PhD in a relevant area of philosophy and/or cosmology-related physics and should have a demonstrated capacity for independent work and be capable of initiating research in a lively group. The candidate will be expected to assist with some of the project's activities. Salary will be within the range 27,578-35,938 GBP p.a. depending on qualifications and experience. A benefits package and a research budget for travel and other expenses will be provided. Applications for this vacancy are to be made online at http://www.damtp.cam.ac.uk/research/postapp/help.html. Further details, including a job description and selection criteria can be found on the above website. Further enquiries can be directed to: ctc[AT]damtp.cam.ac.uk. The deadline for applications is 18 April 2012. Applicants will be required to upload a completed CHRIS 6 application form, a statement of research interests, curriculum vitae, and list of publications, and the names and addresses of three referees as part of their online application. In addition, candidates should arrange for the three letters of reference to be sent to the group secretary, Lee Macdonald, at ctc[AT]damtp.cam.ac.uk by the closing date. Applications are acknowledged but not referee letters. +++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++ 2.6 1-yr postdoctoral position in theoretical gravitational physics at Bishop's University ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------ Announcement on Hyperspace@AEI: http://hyperspace.aei.mpg.de/2012/03/13/1-yr-postdoctoral-position-in-theor… Institution: Sherbrooke, QC, Canada Deadline: Thu, Apr 05, 2012 Additional Information: http://www.ubishops.ca Applications are invited for a 1-year postdoctoral position in theoretical gravitational physics at Bishop's University in Sherbrooke, Canada (http://www.ubishops.ca) commencing in the fall of 2012. The successful candidate will work with Prof. Valerio Faraoni in the areas of theoretical cosmology and/or alternative theories of gravity (especially scalar-tensor and f(R) gravity). A PhD in Physics or a related area at the time the appointment begins is required. According to Quebec regulations, the applicant must have received a PhD less than five years from the beginning of the appointment (which can be extended to ten years under exceptional circumstances). Applicants should submit electronically an updated CV, list of publications, statement of research interests (preferably in a single pdf file using the subject "gravitational theory postdoc"), and arrange for three letters of reference to be sent to vfaraoni[AT]ubishops.ca Review of applications will begin on April 5, 2012. For more information contact the same email address or Valerio Faraoni Physics Department, Bishop’s University 2600 College Street, Sherbrooke, Quebec, Canada J1M 1Z7 Bishop's University implements an equal access employment/program under the Act respecting equal access to employment in public bodies. ================================================================= 3. News ================================================================= 3.1 New Book: 'Relativistic Cosmology' by G. Ellis, R. Maartens and M. MacCallum -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Announcement on Hyperspace@AEI: http://hyperspace.aei.mpg.de/2012/03/30/new-book-relativistic-cosmology/ Additional Information: http://www.cambridge.org/9780521381154 "Relativistic Cosmology" by George F.R. Ellis, Roy Maartens and Malcolm A.H. MacCallum, was published on 22 March 2012. Full publication details are available at http://www.cambridge.org/9780521381154 as is a sample consisting of the first 10 pages, the index, and the full table of contents. It's also listed on Amazon but not (yet) on Abe Books. CUP advise that stocks for the US will arrive in about 6 weeks. The book has 636 pages and 68 black and white illustrations, many of which are also available in colour on the web page above. Extensive references (40 pages of them) are provided. >From the cover: Cosmology has been transformed by dramatic progress in high-precision observations and theoretical modelling. This book surveys key developments and open issues for graduate students and researchers. Using a relativistic geometric approach, it focuses on the general concepts and relations that underpin the standard model of the Universe. Part 1 covers foundations of relativistic cosmology whilst Part 2 develops the dynamical and observational relations for all models of the Universe based on general relativity. Part 3 focuses on the standard model of cosmology, including inflation, dark matter, dark energy, perturbation theory, the cosmic microwave background, structure formation and gravitational lensing. It also examines modified gravity and inhomogeneity as possible alternatives to dark energy. Anisotropic and inhomogeneous models are described in Part 4, and Part 5 reviews deeper issues, such as quantum cosmology, the start of the universe and the multiverse proposal. +++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++ 3.2 From Black Clouds to Black Holes by J V Narlikar (3rd edition) ------------------------------------------------------------------ Announcement on Hyperspace@AEI: http://hyperspace.aei.mpg.de/2012/03/30/from-black-clouds-to-black-holes-3r… Additional Information: http://www.worldscibooks.com/physics/8148.html World Scientific Series in Astronomy and Astrophysics - Vol. 13 >From Black Clouds to Black Holes (Third Edition) by Jayant V Narlikar (Inter University Centre for Astronomy and Astrophysics, India) This book presents in a simple style the success story of modern astrophysics — how the application of known physics to models of stars can, together with the observational data, help us understand what stars are made of, how they live and how they die. The account is non-technical but scientifically accurate. It is interspersed with anecdotes and analogies to make the subject matter readable and understandable even to a lay reader with some basic scientific background. Contents: - On Stars and Humans - Light: The Storehouse of Information - The Vital Statistics of Stars - How Far are the Stars? - A Star is Born - The Secret of Stellar Energy - The Origin of Chemical Elements - When Stars Explode - Very Dense Stars - Black Holes - Binary and Variable Stars - The Quest Continues Readership: Any reader interested in astronomy. To enjoy a 25% discount, please quote NAM2012 as your discount code when you make your purchase. This offer is valid till end of April 2012. +++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++ 3.3 Highlights and Conclusions of the Chalonge 15th Paris Cosmology Colloquium 2011 ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Announcement on Hyperspace@AEI: http://hyperspace.aei.mpg.de/2012/03/19/highlights-and-conclusions-of-the-c… Additional Information: http://chalonge.obspm.fr/colloque2011.html We are pleased to inform you that the Highlights and Conclusions of the Chalonge 15th Paris Cosmology Colloquium 2011 (65 pages, 21 figures) have appeared and are also available (.pdf format) on the web site of the Colloquium http://chalonge.obspm.fr/colloque2011.html ABSTRACT (Abridged) The Chalonge 15th Paris Cosmology Colloquium 2011 was held on 20-22 July in the historic Paris Observatory's Perrault building, in the Chalonge School spirit combining real cosmological/astrophysical data and hard theory predictive approach connected to them in the Warm Dark Matter Standard Model of the Universe: News and reviews from Herschel, QUIET, Atacama Cosmology Telescope (ACT), South Pole Telescole (SPT), Planck, PIXIE, the JWST, UFFO, KATRIN and MARE experiments; astrophysics, particle and nuclear physics warm dark matter (DM) searches and galactic observations, related theory and simulations, with the aim of synthesis, progress and clarification. Philippe Andre, Peter Biermann, Pasquale Blasi, Daniel Boyanovsky, Carlo Burigana, Hector de Vega, Joanna Dunkley, Gerry Gilmore, Alexander Kashlinsky, Alan Kogut, Anthony Lasenby, John Mather, Norma Sanchez, Alexei Smirnov, Sylvaine Turck-Chieze present here their highlights of the Colloquium. Ayuki Kamada and Sinziana Paduroiu present here their poster highlights. LambdaWDM (Warm Dark Matter) is progressing impressively over LambdaCDM whose galactic scale crisis and decline are staggering. The International School Daniel Chalonge issued an statement of strong support to the James Webb Space Telescope (JSWT). The Daniel Chalonge Medal 2011 was awarded to John C. Mather, Science PI of the JWST. Summary and conclusions are presented by H. J. de Vega, M. C. Falvella and N. G. Sanchez. Overall, LambdaWDM and keV scale DM particles deserve dedicated astronomical and laboratory experimental searches, theoretical work and simulations. KATRIN experiment in the future could perhaps adapt its set-up to look to keV scale sterile neutrinos. It will be a a fantastic discovery to detect dark matter in a beta decay. Photos of the Colloquium are included. (Abridged) We thank all again, both lecturers and participants, for having contributed so much to this Colloquium and look forward to seeing you again in a next Meeting of this series. With Compliments and kind regards Norma G Sanchez, Hector J de Vega http://chalonge.obspm.fr +++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++ 3.4 Living Reviews in Relativity: "Gravitational-Wave Data Analysis" (major update) ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Announcement on Hyperspace@AEI: http://hyperspace.aei.mpg.de/2012/03/09/living-reviews-in-relativity-gravit… Additional Information: http://www.livingreviews.org/lrr-2012-4 Living Reviews in Relativity has published an update of the review "Gravitational-Wave Data Analysis. Formalism and Applications: The Gaussian Case" by Piotr Jaranowski and Andrzej Królak on March 9, 2012. Please find the abstract and further details below. ------------------ PUB.NO. lrr-2012-4 Jaranowski, Piotr A. and Królak, Andrzej "Gravitational-Wave Data Analysis. Formalism and Applications: The Gaussian Case" ACCEPTED: 2012-02-14 PUBLISHED: 2012-03-09 FULL ARTICLE AT: http://www.livingreviews.org/lrr-2012-4 ABSTRACT: The article reviews the statistical theory of signal detection in application to analysis of deterministic gravitational-wave signals in the noise of a detector. Statistical foundations for the theory of signal detection and parameter estimation are presented. Several tools needed for both theoretical evaluation of the optimal data analysis methods and for their practical implementation are introduced. They include optimal signal-to-noise ratio, Fisher matrix, false alarm and detection probabilities, ℱ-statistic, template placement, and fitting factor. These tools apply to the case of signals buried in a stationary and Gaussian noise. Algorithms to efficiently implement the optimal data analysis techniques are discussed. Formulas are given for a general gravitational-wave signal that includes as special cases most of the deterministic signals of interest. UPCOMING ARTICLES AT: http://relativity.livingreviews.org/Articles/upcoming.html +++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++ 3.5 "Vignettes in Gravitation and Cosmology" by Sriramkumar and Seshadri ------------------------------------------------------------------------ Announcement on Hyperspace@AEI: http://hyperspace.aei.mpg.de/2012/03/09/vignettes-in-gravitation-and-cosmol… Additional Information: http://www.worldscibooks.com/physics/7864.html VIGNETTES IN GRAVITATION AND COSMOLOGY edited by L Sriramkumar (Harish-Chandra Research Institute, India) and T R Seshadri (University of Delhi, India) World Scientific This book comprises expository articles on different aspects of gravitation and cosmology that are aimed at graduate students. The topics discussed are of contemporary interest assuming only an elementary introduction to gravitation and cosmology. The presentations are to a certain extent pedagogical in nature, and the material developed is not usually found in sufficient detail in recent textbooks in these areas. Contents: - Non-Linear Gravitational Clustering in an Expanding Universe - Dark Ages and Cosmic Reionization - Probing Fundamental Constant Evolution with Redshifted Spectral Lines - Averaging the Inhomogeneous Universe - Probing Cosmic Magnetic Fields with the Cosmic Microwave Background Radiation - Quantum Corrections to the Bekenstein-Hawking Entropy - Quantum Measurement and Quantum Gravity: Many Worlds or Collapse of the Wave Function? - Generation and Evolution of Perturbations During Inflation and Reheating - Patterns in Neural Processing Readership: Graduate students and researchers interested in the areas of gravitation and cosmology. Please quote *NAM2012* as a discount code to enjoy 25% discount from now till April 2012 when you purchase a book from our collection. +++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++ 3.6 New book: "3+1 Formalism in General Relativity" by Eric Gourgoulhon ----------------------------------------------------------------------- Announcement on Hyperspace@AEI: http://hyperspace.aei.mpg.de/2012/03/05/new-book-31-formalism-in-general-re… Additional Information: http://relativite.obspm.fr/3p1 3+1 Formalism in General Relativity: Bases of Numerical Relativity Eric Gourgoulhon Springer, 2012 294 pages Contents: 1. Introduction 2. Basic Differential Geometry 3. Geometry of Hypersurfaces 4. Geometry of Foliations 5. 3+1 Decomposition of Einstein Equation 6. 3+1 Equations for Matter and Electromagnetic Field 7. Conformal Decomposition 8. Asymptotic Flatness and Global Quantities 9. The Initial Data Problem 10. Choice of Foliation and Spatial Coordinates 11. Evolution Schemes A. Conformal Killing Operator and Conformal Vector Laplacian B. Sage Codes More details at http://relativite.obspm.fr/3p1

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[Hyperspace-list] Hyperspace Bulletin for March 2012
by hyperspace＠aei.mpg.de 02 Mar '12

02 Mar '12

################################################################# Table of Contents ################################################################# 1. Conferences 1.1 The Time Machine Factory, Turin, Italy 1.2 17th Itzykson Meeting - Heart of Darkness: Dark Energy and Modified Gravity, Saclay, France 1.3 Relativity and Gravitation – 100 Years after Einstein in Prague (3rd circ.) 1.4 LIGO-Virgo Collaboration meeting in Hanover, Germany 1.5 LIGO-Virgo Collaboration meeting in Maryland, USA 1.6 LIGO-Virgo Collaboration meeting in Rome, Italy 1.7 LIGO-Virgo Collaboration meeting in Cambridge, MA 1.8 Advanced School in General Relativity in Sao Paolo: Relativistic Astrophysics and Cosmology 1.9 14th Canadian Conference on General Relativity and Relativistic Astrophysics (2nd circ.) 1.10 2nd LOFT Science Meeting in Toulouse, France 1.11 Gravitational-Wave Advanced Detector Workshop in Hawaii 1.12 International Conference on Non-Euclidean Geometry in Modern Physics and Mathematics, Uzhgorod, Ukraine 1.13 Einstein Toolkit New Users Workshop in Atlanta 2. Jobs 3. News 3.1 Living Reviews in Relativity: "Brane Effective Actions, Kappa-Symmetry and Applications" 3.2 The "Jürgen Ehlers thesis prize" and the "Bergmann-Wheeler thesis prize" of the International Society for General Relativity and Gravitation 2013 ================================================================= 1. Conferences ================================================================= 1.1 The Time Machine Factory, Turin, Italy ------------------------------------------ Announcement on Hyperspace@AEI: http://hyperspace.aei.mpg.de/2012/02/29/the-time-machine-factory/ Starting Sun, Oct 14, 2012 to Fri, Oct 19, 2012 Location: Turin, Italy Additional Information: http://timemachine.polito.it We are pleased to announce that the conference ``The Time Machine Factory'' will be held in Torino (Italy), from October 14 to 19, 2012. The conference is being organized by INAF-Osservatorio Astrofisico of Torino, Istituto Nazionale di Ricerca Metrologica and Politecnico di Torino. On behalf of the SOC, SOC Chairs, Mariateresa Crosta Marco Gramegna Matteo Luca Ruggiero SCIENTIFIC RATIONALE The conference focuses on causality and nonlocality in physics, with emphasis on its implications with time machines. In particular these issues will be dealt with from the viewpoints of General Relativity and Quantum Mechanics. The topological nature of spacetime in the framework of Quantum Mechanics suggests that both causality and locality need to be analyzed at a fundamental level, also by allowing the existence of entities that are more elementary than the spatial dimensions of everyday's life. The interplay of these entities influences the very nature of time, and their dynamics could lead to understand the emergence of the arrow of time. Focusing on these issues would help to understand the ultimate nature of time, its role in fundamental physics and in the formation of the Universe, thus allowing for a better comprehension of its large scale structure, with apparent implications on the astronomical reference systems. INFORMATION All information about the conference, such as scientific program, venue, travel, accommodation, events and social activities, important deadlines and so on, are available at the web page http://timemachine.polito.it Limited funds will be available for covering expenses for young researchers: please contact timemachine[AT]polito.it upon registration. SCIENTIFIC ORGANIZING COMMITTEE Mariateresa Crosta (chair, INAF,OATo); Marco Gramegna (co-chair, INRIM); Matteo Luca Ruggiero (co-chair, Politecnico di Torino, INFN); Orfeu Bertolami (Dep. Physics and Astronomy - Univ. Porto); Donato Bini (Ist. M. Picone - CNR, ICRA, INFN); Salvatore Capozziello (Dep. Phys. Sciences - Univ. Napoli, INFN); Sandro Coriasco (Dep. Mathematics - Univ. Torino); Fernando de Felice (Dep. Physics - Univ. Padova); Marco Genovese (INRIM); Robert T. Janzen (Villanova University, ICRA); Christophe Leponcin-Lafitte (SYRTE, Obs. de Paris); Oldrich Semerak (Inst. Th. Physics - Charles University, Prague), Angelo Tartaglia (DISAT - Politecnico di Torino, INFN). LOCAL ORGANIZING COMMITTEE Monica Capone (Dep. Mathematics - Univ. Torino, INFN); Tullia Carriero (INAF,OATo); Sandro Coriasco (Dep. Mathematics - Univ. Torino); Mariateresa Crosta (INAF,OATo); Marco Gramegna (INRIM); Matteo Luca Ruggiero (DISAT - Politecnico di Torino, INFN); Willy Merz (Fondazione Merz); Enzo Obiso (PHOS). +++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++ 1.2 17th Itzykson Meeting - Heart of Darkness: Dark Energy and Modified Gravity, Saclay, France ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Announcement on Hyperspace@AEI: http://hyperspace.aei.mpg.de/2012/02/29/17th-itzykson-meeting-heart-of-dark… Starting Mon, Jun 18, 2012 to Wed, Jun 20, 2012 Location: IPhT (CEA/Saclay), France Additional Information: http://indico.in2p3.fr/conferenceDisplay.py?ovw=True&confId=6388 The Itzykson Meeting is held every year in the Institut de Physique Théorique of CEA-Saclay, to honour the memory of Claude Itzykson. The 17th edition of this meeting, to take place on June 18−20 2012, is devoted to dark energy and modified gravity. This meeting will bring together researchers involved in the study of Dark Energy and Modified Gravity, with the aim of reviewing and discussing theory and observations. The main topics will be: - observational tests of the acceleration of the universe - dark energy - modified gravity - tests of gravity - effects of dark energy and modified gravity on structure formation - N-body simulations +++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++ 1.3 Relativity and Gravitation – 100 Years after Einstein in Prague (3rd circ.) ------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Announcement on Hyperspace@AEI: http://hyperspace.aei.mpg.de/2012/02/27/relativity-and-gravitation-%e2%80%9… Starting Mon, Jun 25, 2012 to Fri, Jun 29, 2012 Location: Prague, Czech Republic Additional Information: http://ae100prg.mff.cuni.cz/ The conference is organized at the occasion of the 100th anniversary of Albert Einstein’s stay in Prague, with the aim of providing an overview of the development and progress achieved in general relativity and its applications since then. The main topics of the conference include: - Mathematical relativity - Numerical relativity - Relativistic astrophysics - Relativistic cosmology - Quantum gravity - Gravitation and experiment - Conceptual and historical issues The meeting is organized under the auspices of the Rector of Charles University. The lectures will take place in the historical complex of the University in the heart of Prague’s Old Town. Scientific Program The schedule of the conference will include plenary lectures and up to three parallel sessions in the afternoon. Posters will be displayed for the duration of the conference. The scientific program will be based primarily on invited lectures, the list of which is now essentially completed. Confirmed speakers include: Marek Abramowicz (Physics Department, Göteborg University, Göteborg) Innermost part of accretion disks around black holes Lars Andersson (Albert-Einstein-Institut Golm, Potsdam) Cosmological models and stability Abhay Ashtekar (Institute for Gravitation and the Cosmos, Penn State University, University Park ) T.B.A. Leor Barack (School of Mathematics, University of Southampton, Southampton) Gravitational self-force: orbital mechanics beyond the geodesic approximation Julian Barbour (Department of Physics, University of Oxford, Oxford) Prague and the conception of general relativity: Kepler, Mach and Einstein Jiří Bičák (Institute of Theoretical Physics, Charles University, Prague) Einstein and Prague Donato Bini (Istituto per le Applicazioni del Calcolo "M. Picone", CNR, Rome) T.B.A. Piotr Bizoń (Institute of Physics, Jagiellonian University, Krakow) Instability of anti de-Sitter spacetime Bernd Brügmann (Theoretisch-Physikalisches Institut, Friedrich-Schiller-Universität, Jena) Numerical Relativity and Black Holes Chris Clarkson (Centre for Cosmology, Astrophysics and Gravity, and Department of Mathematics and Applied Mathematics, University of Cape Town, Rondebosch) Dark energy and inhomogeneity Thibault Damour (Institut des Hautes Études Scientifiques, Paris) T.B.A. Karsten Danzmann (Albert-Einstein-Institut Hannover and Leibniz University, Hannover) T.B.A. John Friedman (Department of Physics, University of Wisconsin, Milwaukee) Stability of relativistic stars Helmut Friedrich (Albert-Einstein-Institute Golm, Potsdam) The large scale Einstein evolution problem Valeri Frolov (Department of Physics, University of Alberta, Edmonton) Black holes, hidden symmetry and complete integrability Gary Gibbons (Department of Applied Mathematics and Theoretical Physics, University of Cambridge, Cambridge) Links between General Relativity and other parts of physics Gabriela González (Department of Physics and Astronomy, Louisiana State University, Baton Rouge) T.B.A. Michael Kramer (Max-Planck-Institut für Radioastronomie, Bonn and Jodrell Bank Centre for Astrophysics, University of Manchester) Einstein's gravity as seen by a cosmic lighthouse keeper Karel Kuchař (Department of Physics, University of Utah, Salt Lake City ) Canonical quantum gravity: Einstein's posthumous anathema Jerzy Lewandowski (Department of Physics, University of Warsaw, Warsaw) Loop quantum gravity: the status report Marc Mars (Facultad de Ciencias, Universidad de Salamanca, Salamanca) T.B.A. Ramesh Narayan (Harvard-Smithsonian Center for Astrophysics and Harvard University Department of Astronomy, Cambridge (USA)) Energy Extraction from Spinning Black Holes: Relativistic Jets Gernot Neugebauer (Theoretisch-Physikalisches Institut, Friedrich-Schiller-Universität, Jena) Stationary two-black-hole configurations: A non-existence proof for disconnected horizons Hermann Nicolai (Albert-Einstein-Institut Golm, Potsdam) Quantum gravity: the view from particle physics Harvey Reall (Department of Applied Mathematics and Theoretical Physics, University of Cambridge, Cambridge) Higher dimensional black holes Luciano Rezzolla (Albert-Einstein-Institute Golm, Potsdam) Using numerical relativity to explore fundamental physics and astrophysics Misao Sasaki (Yukawa Institute for Theoretical Physics, Kyoto University, Kyoto) Inflation and birth of cosmological perturbations Gerhard Schäfer (Theoretisch-Physikalisches Institut, Friedrich-Schiller-Universität, Jena) Hamiltonian formalism of spinning black holes in general relativity Peter Schneider (Argelander-Institute for Astronomy, Bonn) T.B.A. Bernard Schutz (Albert-Einstein-Institute Golm, Potsdam) Gravity talks: observing the Universe with gravitational waves Alexei Starobinsky (Landau Institute for Theoretical Physics, Moscow) f(R) gravity--the most straightforward generalization of the Einstein gravity Robert Wald (Enrico Fermi Institute, University of Chicago, Chicago) T.B.A. Clifford Will (Department of Physics, Washington University, St. Louis) Testing General Relativity: Centenary Highlights and Future Prospects Space will be reserved also for contributed oral and poster presentations. We have already obtained a number of interesting contributions. Please see below for abstract submission information. Accommodation Prague offers a broad range of hotels, hostels, and other lodging options. For more information on accommodation, visit our web page http://ae100prg.mff.cuni.cz/accommodation where you will find three choices: prearranged accommodation, book accommodation yourself, and budget accommodation. Registration Standard registration fee: EUR 350 before April 15, 2012. Late registration fee: EUR 450 after April 15, 2012. In addition to conference participation, the registration fee includes: abstract book and conference materials; coffee breaks; welcome cocktail on Sunday, June 24; classical music concert (by Škampa string quartet) in the Gothic Aula Magna of Charles University on Tuesday, June 26; guided tour through Einstein’s Prague followed by banquet on Thursday, June 28 (accompanying persons need a separate banquet ticket). Due to spacetime constraints, the number of participants is limited to around 150 of which more than 100 have already been taken. It is thus possible that registration may close before April 15. By now we have finished processing applications for the reduced conference fee (EUR 200) and informed the applicants. Abstract Submission Participants are invited to submit abstracts for oral and poster presentations by April 15, 2012. Contributed presentations will be selected by the organizers. Please note that especially the number of oral contributions is limited. The abstract submission form is available at http://ae100prg.mff.cuni.cz/registration, the registration section of the conference website. Important Dates April 15, 2012: Standard registration closes; abstract submission deadline. June 24, 2012: See you in Prague! Scientific Organizing Committee Marek Abramowicz, Lars Andersson, Abhay Ashtekar, Julian Barbour, Jiří Bičák, Roger Blandford, Bernd Brügmann, Piotr Chruściel, Thibault Damour, Karsten Danzmann, Fernando de Felice, George Ellis, John Friedman, Helmut Friedrich, Valeri Frolov, Gary Gibbons, Gary Horowitz, Joseph Katz, Karel Kuchař, Jerzy Lewandowski, Gernot Neugebauer, Hermann Nicolai, Igor Novikov, Martin Rees, Oscar Reula, Luciano Rezzolla, Misao Sasaki, Gerhard Schäfer, Bernd Schmidt, Alexei Starobinsky, Paul Tod, Robert Wald, Clifford Will. For more detailed information, please visit http://ae100prg.mff.cuni.cz/. Jiří Bičák (on behalf of SOC and LOC) +++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++ 1.4 LIGO-Virgo Collaboration meeting in Hanover, Germany -------------------------------------------------------- Announcement on Hyperspace@AEI: http://hyperspace.aei.mpg.de/2012/02/23/ligo-virgo-collaboration-meeting-in… Starting Mon, Sep 23, 2013 to Fri, Sep 27, 2013 Location: Hanover, Germany Additional Information: http://www.ligo.org 23-09-2013 27-09-2013 Hanover, Germany Meeting open to LIGO-Virgo collaboration members only. +++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++ 1.5 LIGO-Virgo Collaboration meeting in Maryland, USA ----------------------------------------------------- Announcement on Hyperspace@AEI: http://hyperspace.aei.mpg.de/2012/02/23/ligo-virgo-collaboration-meeting-in… Starting Mon, Mar 18, 2013 to Fri, Mar 22, 2013 Location: University of Maryland, USA Additional Information: http://www.ligo.org 18-03-2013 22-03-2013 University of Maryland, USA Meeting open to LIGO-Virgo collaboration members. +++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++ 1.6 LIGO-Virgo Collaboration meeting in Rome, Italy --------------------------------------------------- Announcement on Hyperspace@AEI: http://hyperspace.aei.mpg.de/2012/02/23/ligo-virgo-collaboration-meeting-in… Starting Mon, Sep 10, 2012 to Fri, Sep 14, 2012 Location: Rome, Italy Additional Information: http://www.ligo.org 10-09-2012 14-09-2012 Rome, Italy Meeting open to LIGO-Virgo collaboration members +++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++ 1.7 LIGO-Virgo Collaboration meeting in Cambridge, MA ----------------------------------------------------- Announcement on Hyperspace@AEI: http://hyperspace.aei.mpg.de/2012/02/23/ligo-virgo-collaboration-meeting-in… Starting Mon, Mar 19, 2012 to Fri, Mar 23, 2012 Location: Cambridge, MA, USA Additional Information: http://www.ligo.org 19-03-2012 23-03-2012 Cambridge, MA, USA Meeting open to LIGO-Virgo collaboration members. +++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++ 1.8 Advanced School in General Relativity in Sao Paolo: Relativistic Astrophysics and Cosmology ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Announcement on Hyperspace@AEI: http://hyperspace.aei.mpg.de/2012/02/22/advanced-school-in-general-relativi… Starting Mon, Jul 16, 2012 to Fri, Jul 27, 2012 Location: São Paulo, Brazil Additional Information: http://www.ictp-saifr.org/?page_id=1076 16 - 27 July, 2012 Instituto de Fisica Teorica - UNESP - Sao Paulo, Brazil Modern technology is improving our observations of neutron stars, pulsars, black holes, and other compact objects, which only can be understood in the context of general relativity. Moreover, the direct observation of gravitational waves, expected in the next years, should dramatically increase our comprehension of various astrophysical phenomena. At the same time, only a deep understanding of general relativity will enable physicists to grasp the very meaning of precise measurements of some cosmological observations. The aim of the School is to discuss some of the most important modern topics of astrophysics and cosmology in the context of general relativity. Students are expected to have had some previous contact with general relativity. There is no registration fee. +++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++ 1.9 14th Canadian Conference on General Relativity and Relativistic Astrophysics (2nd circ.) -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Announcement on Hyperspace@AEI: http://hyperspace.aei.mpg.de/2012/02/21/14th-canadian-conference-on-general… Starting Mon, Jul 09, 2012 to Thu, Jul 12, 2012 Location: St. John's, NF, Canada Additional Information: http://www.ccgrra14.ca This is the second announcement for the the 14th Canadian Conference on General Relativity and Relativistic Astrophysics which will take place July 9-12, 2012 in St. John’s, Newfoundland. CCGRRA14 is the latest in a biennial series of meetings that bring together Canadian and international relativists for scientific discussion and exchange. These meetings are broadly based, covering the wide range of research done in Canada including mathematical and numerical relativity, quantum gravity, string-theoretic approaches to gravity, relativistic astrophysics and cosmology. Invited lectures will be given by: Patrick Brady (U. of Wisconsin-Milwaukee), Robert Brandenberger (McGill U.), Sergio Dain (U. Nacional de Cordoba), Andrew Frey (U. of Winnipeg), Valeri Frolov (U. of Alberta), Veronika Hubeny (Durham U.), Hari Kunduri (Memorial U.), Robert Mann (U of Waterloo), Harald Pfeiffer (U. of Toronto), Eric Poisson (U. of Guelph) and Sanjeev Seahra (U. New Brunswick, Fredericton). In addition to these plenary lectures, time will be allotted in the afternoons for contributed talks from members of the national and international community. Post-docs and grad students are especially encouraged to contribute talks. The meeting will begin with an opening reception on Monday, July 9th. Talks will happen from Tuesday morning (the 10th) until Thursday evening (the 12th), including a public lecture on Tuesday night. On Wednesday afternoon there will be an organized whale-watching trip to the Witless Bay Ecological Reserve followed by a banquet on the beach. For more information please see the website http://www.ccgrra14.ca or contact ccgrra14[AT]gmail.com. Registration is now open. It will close on June 1. Organizing Committee: Ivan Booth (ibooth[AT]mun.ca), Hari Kunduri (hkkunduri[AT]mun.ca), Ben Tippett (bktippett[AT]mun.ca). +++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++ 1.10 2nd LOFT Science Meeting in Toulouse, France ------------------------------------------------- Announcement on Hyperspace@AEI: http://hyperspace.aei.mpg.de/2012/02/13/2nd-loft-science-meeting-in-toulous… Starting Mon, Sep 24, 2012 to Thu, Sep 27, 2012 Location: Toulouse, France Additional Information: http://www.isdc.unige.ch/loft/index.php/meetings/second-loft-science-meeting Toulouse, France 24-27 September LOFT, the Large Observatory For X-ray Timing, is one of the four ESA Cosmic vision mission candidates competing for a launch opportunity at the start of 2020s. LOFT will answer fundamental questions about the motion of matter orbiting close to the event horizon of a black hole, and the state of matter in neutron stars. Following the successful first science meeting, the LOFT Consortium is pleased to invite the Astrophysics community at large to discover the progress achieved in the instruments' design and provide an essential contribution to finalizing of the LOFT Yellow Book. +++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++ 1.11 Gravitational-Wave Advanced Detector Workshop in Hawaii ------------------------------------------------------------ Announcement on Hyperspace@AEI: http://hyperspace.aei.mpg.de/2012/02/10/gravitational-wave-advanced-detecto… Starting Sun, May 13, 2012 to Sat, May 19, 2012 Location: Hawaii, USA Additional Information: http://www.ligo.caltech.edu/gwadw2012/ Gravitational-Wave Advanced Detector Workshop May 13-19, 2012 Waikoloa Marriott Resort, Hawaii Gravitational Wave Detectors for 2015, 2020, and 2025 The last decade has produced pioneering demonstrations of the technologies to observe astrophysical gravitational waves across the frequency band from kilohertz to nanohertz. Advanced interferometric detectors (Advanced LIGO, Advanced Virgo, KAGRA, and GEO-HF) are now under construction, and within a few years may yield their first observations. The LISA Pathfinder mission is nearing launch and will provide momentum for a full-scale gravitational wave observation mission. The international pulsar timing effort is steadily marching toward its targets. With these foundations in place, it is time to push the developments that will take the field of gravitational waves astrophysics into the current and next decades. This workshop will address techniques that can be implemented to enhance the detectors currently under construction, as well as new detectors that may be proposed. New ideas to reduce noise, improve robustness, and extend the frequency spectrum of observation will be discussed along with progress on long-term ongoing developments. +++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++ 1.12 International Conference on Non-Euclidean Geometry in Modern Physics and Mathematics, Uzhgorod, Ukraine ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------ Announcement on Hyperspace@AEI: http://hyperspace.aei.mpg.de/2012/02/10/non-euclidean-geometry-in-modern-ph… Starting Tue, May 22, 2012 to Fri, May 25, 2012 Location: Uzhgorod (Ungvár), Ukraine Additional Information: http://bgl.iep.org.ua 8-th Bolyai-Gauss-Lobachevsky Conference Uzhgorod, UKRAINE 22- 25 May 2012 BGL, after the names (alphabetically!) of the founders of the Non-Euclidean geometry, is a series of biannual international conferences, held in various places of Central and Eastern Europe (for history see, e.g.: http://bgl.iep.org.ua/) The subject of the Conferences includes mathematics, physics and history of science. The conferences are bringing together scientists from East and West. The conferences have also certain Mitteleuropaeisch flavor, dominated by Bolyai's and Lobachevski's co-patriots. Co-patriots of Karl Friedrich Gauss are welcome in Uzhgorod at BGL-8. +++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++ 1.13 Einstein Toolkit New Users Workshop in Atlanta --------------------------------------------------- Announcement on Hyperspace@AEI: http://hyperspace.aei.mpg.de/2012/02/06/einstein-toolkit-new-users-workshop/ Starting Tue, Apr 03, 2012 to Fri, Apr 06, 2012 Location: Atlanta, GA, USA Additional Information: https://docs.einsteintoolkit.org/et-docs/ET_Workshop_Spring_2012 The Einstein Toolkit (http://einsteintoolkit.org) will host its spring workshop 2012 following the April APS meeting in Atlanta, GA, from Tuesday, April 3rd, 4pm to Friday April 6th, noon at the Georgia Institute of Technology. This workshop is targeted at new and potential new users of the relativity infrastructure. It will provide a general introductions into numerical relativity (although some previous knowledge would be beneficial) and in code development within large collaborations. Hands-on sessions will help to familiarize attendees with the Einstein Toolkit. Participants are asked to bring their own laptops. We would like to invite especially students from physics and computer science to participate. The number of attendees is limited, and while registration is free, it is required. We anticipate to be able to support a small number of participants financially, by covering parts/all of their travel, hotel and meal cost. Preference will be given to students. In order register, write an email to workshop[AT]einsteintoolkit.org and specify: * your name, affiliation and title * your estimated arrival and departure time/date * whether you apply for support (and if so, state if you are undergraduate / graduate student / postdoc * your special needs Detailed workshop information can be found at https://docs.einsteintoolkit.org/et-docs/ET_Workshop_Spring_2012. The Einstein Toolkit Consortium. ================================================================= 2. Jobs ================================================================= ================================================================= 3. News ================================================================= 3.1 Living Reviews in Relativity: "Brane Effective Actions, Kappa-Symmetry and Applications" -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Announcement on Hyperspace@AEI: http://hyperspace.aei.mpg.de/2012/02/27/living-reviews-in-relativity-brane-… Additional Information: http://www.livingreviews.org/lrr-2012-3 Living Reviews in Relativity has published a new review article on "Brane Effective Actions, Kappa-Symmetry and Applications" by Joan Simón on 27 February 2012. Please find the abstract and further details below. ------------------ PUB.NO. lrr-2012-3 Simón, Joan "Brane Effective Actions, Kappa-Symmetry and Applications" ACCEPTED: 2012-01-09 PUBLISHED: 2012-02-27 FULL ARTICLE AT: http://www.livingreviews.org/lrr-2012-3 ABSTRACT: This is a review on brane effective actions, their symmetries and some of its applications. Its first part uncovers the Green-Schwarz formulation of single M- and D-brane effective actions focusing on kinematical aspects: the identification of their degrees of freedom, the importance of world volume diffeomorphisms and kappa symmetry, to achieve manifest spacetime covariance and supersymmetry, and the explicit construction of such actions in arbitrary on-shell supergravity backgrounds. Its second part deals with applications. First, the use of kappa symmetry to determine supersymmetric world volume solitons. This includes their explicit construction in flat and curved backgrounds, their interpretation as BPS states carrying (topological) charges in the supersymmetry algebra and the connection between supersymmetry and Hamiltonian BPS bounds. When available, I emphasise the use of these solitons as constituents in microscopic models of black holes. Second, the use of probe approximations to infer about non-trivial dynamics of strongly coupled gauge theories using the AdS/CFT correspondence. This includes expectation values of Wilson loop operators, spectrum information and the general use of D-brane probes to approximate the dynamics of systems with small number of degrees of freedom interacting with larger systems allowing a dual gravitational description. Its final part briefly discusses effective actions for N D-branes and M2-branes. This includes both SYM theories, their higher order corrections and partial results in covariantising these couplings to curved backgrounds, and the more recent supersymmetric Chern–Simons matter theories describing M2-branes using field theory, brane constructions and 3-algebra considerations. UPCOMING ARTICLES AT: http://relativity.livingreviews.org/Articles/upcoming.html +++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++ 3.2 The "Jürgen Ehlers thesis prize" and the "Bergmann-Wheeler thesis prize" of the International Society for General Relativity and Gravitation 2013 ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Announcement on Hyperspace@AEI: http://hyperspace.aei.mpg.de/2012/02/06/the-juergen-ehlers-thesis-prize-and… The International Society for General Relativity and Gravitation awards two Ph.D. thesis prizes, one in classical gravity and one in quantum gravity. One prize in each category is awarded at each triennial GRG conference. The monetary value of each award is US $1,500. These prizes complement the Gravitational Wave thesis prize awarded by GWIC, for which the Society is the trustee of the funds. The Jürgen Ehlers thesis prize is sponsored by Springer, publishers of the Society's journal "General Relativity and Gravitation", and will cover the areas of mathematical and numerical general relativity and gravitation in a broad sense. The Bergmann-Wheeler thesis prize is sponsored by the UK Institute of Physics, publishers of "Classical and Quantum Gravity", and will encompass all approaches to quantum gravity. The Society seeks nominations for both prizes for award in 2013. The deadline for receipt of the nomination packet is September 30th, 2012. The nominator must be a member of the Society. Nominators can make at most one nomination in each category. The nominee need not be a member of the Society but the official defense must have taken place between October 1, 2009 and September 30th, 2012. The nomination package will consist of: i) A nomination letter summarizing the main results and their importance and elaborating the student's role in case of joint work. ii) A PDF file of the thesis, and of any supporting papers which formed an integral part of the thesis submission. (For any such paper, reference to a readily available public source is acceptable instead.) iii) A CV and the publication list of the nominee. iv) An official University document showing the date of the successful Ph.D. defense. (This can be sent later, if not available by September 30th, 2012.) v) One or two optional letters in support from experts. At least one of these is required if the nominator is a supervisor of the Ph.D. thesis. The primary criteria for selection will be the high quality of scientific results, creativity and originality, and the significance of results for the broad area of the prize. The winner for each prize will be chosen by a committee of leading international experts in the field approximately six months before the GR20 conference which will be held in Warsaw on 8-12 July 2013. This will provide the winners ample time to plan travel to the conference. The prize is conditional to the winner attending the conference (the Executive committee of the GRG Society may allow the prize to be given in absentia in exceptional cases.) Nominations for the Bergman-Wheeler prize should be submitted electronically, possibly packaged in a single email, to the address gravity[AT]cpt.univ-mrs.fr. If it is not possible to send a nomination in electronic form, please send 4 hard copies to Carlo Rovelli, CPT-CNRS, Case 907, av. de Luminy, F-13288, Marseille Cedex 9, France. Nominations for the Ehlers prize should be submitted electronically to Bernd Brügmann, c/o Renate Wagner Renate.Wagner[AT]uni-jena.de. If it is not possible to send a nomination in electronic form, please send 4 hard copies to Renate Wagner, Theoretical Physics Institute, University of Jena, Max-Wien-Platz 1, 07743 Jena, Germany

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[Hyperspace-list] Hyperspace Bulletin for February 2012
by hyperspace＠aei.mpg.de 02 Feb '12

02 Feb '12

################################################################# Table of Contents ################################################################# 1. Conferences 1.1 Multiverse and Fundamental Cosmology in Szczecin, Poland 1.2 Thirteenth Marcel Grossmann Meeting (MG13) in Stockholm (3rd circ.) 1.3 Inaugural meeting of the Research Training Group "Models of Gravity", Bremen 1.4 Workshop "Landscapes for Quantum Gravity" in Pavia, Italy 1.5 Geometry and topology in (quantum) gravity session at QQQ 2012 conference in Tallinn, Estonia 1.6 Central European Relativity Seminar in Cracow 1.7 Black Holes and Information at KITP, Santa Barbara 1.8 Workshop on Gravitational Wave Bursts in Tobermory, Scotland, UK 1.9 Gravitation and cosmology session at QQQ 2012 conference in Tallinn, Estonia 1.10 9th LISA Symposium in Paris 1.11 Workshop on The Physics of De Sitter Spacetime in Hannover 1.12 Recent Developments in Gravity (NEB 15), Crete (Greece) 2. Jobs 2.1 Postdoctoral position in theoretical gravitational-wave physics at Southampton 2.2 Two postdoctoral positions in theoretical cosmology at Portsmouth 2.3 Two Tenure-Track Positions in Theoretical Physics at Sao Paulo 2.4 EDECS-PhD position in Cosmology at LUTH (Paris) 2.5 EDECS-Postdoc in Cosmology at LUTH (Paris) 3. News 3.1 Death of Franco Pacini, Florence 3.2 Living Reviews in Relativity: article updates by Winicour and Adamo et al. 3.3 Gravitational Wave Tests of Alternative Theories of Gravity in the Advanced Detector Era at MSU 3.4 eLISA(NGO) - Revealing a hidden Universe: opening a new chapter of discovery 3.5 Call for nominations: fellows of the GRG Society 3.6 2012 Awards for Essays on Gravitation ================================================================= 1. Conferences ================================================================= 1.1 Multiverse and Fundamental Cosmology in Szczecin, Poland ------------------------------------------------------------ Announcement on Hyperspace@AEI: http://hyperspace.aei.mpg.de/2012/01/31/multiverse-and-fundamental-cosmolog… Starting Mon, Sep 10, 2012 to Fri, Sep 14, 2012 Location: Szczecin, Poland Additional Information: http://cosmo.fiz.univ.szczecin.pl Dear Collegues, We invite you to take part in our conference “Multiverse and Fundamental Cosmology” which will take place in Szczecin, Poland from 10th till 14th of September 2012. This is the third event in the series of fundamental cosmology conferences organized by our cosmology group in Szczecin (previous were Cosmofun'2005 and Grasscosmofun'09). This time the task of the conference is to bring together specialists in fundamental cosmology (superstring, brane and M-theory), quantum cosmology and dark energy and the specialists dealing with the multiverse concept (variation of fundamental constants, decoherent histories, superstring landscape etc.). It is planned that the invited lectures and short contributions will be published in a conference proceedings. The organizer is the Cosmology Group of the University of Szczecin and collaborators are the Polish Physical Society, the Copernicus Center for Interdisciplinary Research in Krakow, and the National Centre for Nuclear Research in Swierk. Invited speakers are: Martin Bojowald, Univ. Penn State, USA Robert R. Caldwell, Dartmouth College, Hanover, USA Paul C.W. Davies, Center for Fundamental Concepts in Science, Arizona St. Univ., USA Michael Heller, Copernicus Center for Interdisciplinary Studies, Krakow, Poland Jerzy Jurkiewicz, Jagiellonian University, Kraków, Poland Claus Kiefer, Univ. Cologne, Germany Anthony Lasenby, Cavendish Laboratory, Cambridge, UK Renate Loll, Univ. Utrecht, The Netherlands Carlos J.A.P. Martins Univ. Porto, Portugal David Polarski, Univ. Montpellier, France Alexei Starobinsky, Lebedev Institute, Moscow, Russia Shinji Tsujikawa Tokyo University of Science, Tokyo, Japan Jean-Philippe Uzan, IAP, Paris, France Alexander Vilenkin, Tufts University, USA We encourage you to register early through our server (http://cosmo.fiz.univ.szczecin.pl) by filling in a registration form and submitting it to a conference address: mcosmo12[AT]wmf.univ.szczecin.pl. Looking forward to seeing you in Szczecin. With compliments, Mariusz P. Dabrowski (Organizing Committee chair) +++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++ 1.2 Thirteenth Marcel Grossmann Meeting (MG13) in Stockholm (3rd circ.) ----------------------------------------------------------------------- Announcement on Hyperspace@AEI: http://hyperspace.aei.mpg.de/2012/01/31/mg13-thirteenth-marcel-grossmann-me… Starting Sun, Jul 01, 2012 to Sat, Jul 07, 2012 Location: Stockholm, Sweden Additional Information: http://www.icra.it/MG/mg13/ The list of 70 parallel sessions is now ready and interested participants can register themselves for the meeting and submit a short abstract for the parallel session of their choice. A preliminary list of confirmed invited plenary speakers is also available. Early registration at 350€ will be possible starting February 10, 2012, extending through June 15, 2012, after which the registration fee will be 400€. The student fee is 150€. Abstracts for parallel session presentations must be submitted by June 1, 2012, but preferably at the time of registration. MG13 will take place July 1-7, 2012 at Stockholm University in Stockholm, Sweden. Preregistration will take place Sunday, July 1, and the meeting will officially open Monday morning with the Marcel Grossmann awards announcement. During the six day conference a wide variety of topics will be discussed in the morning plenary sessions beginning with mathematical topics on Monday, quantum aspects of gravity on Tuesday, precision tests of general relativity on Wednesday, relativistic astrophysics on Thursday, cosmology and astroparticle physics on Friday and the latest scientific news and the history of physics Saturday. There will be five plenary lectures each morning and up to twenty parallel sessions in the four weekday afternoons excluding Wednesday, which is left free for a trip and the evening conference banquet. The plenary lectures will be held in the Aula Magna lecture hall and the parallel sessions at the AlbaNova University Center, both easily reachable by public transp ortation from the city center. Since 1975, the Marcel Grossmann Meetings (on Recent Developments in Theoretical and Experimental General Relativity, Gravitation, and Relativistic Field Theories) have been organized in order to provide opportunities for discussing recent advances in gravitation, general relativity and relativistic field theories, emphasizing mathematical foundations, physical predictions and experimental tests. The objective of these meetings is to elicit exchange among scientists that may deepen our understanding of spacetime structures as well as to review the status of ongoing experiments aimed at testing Einstein’s theory of gravitation either from the ground or from space. +++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++ 1.3 Inaugural meeting of the Research Training Group "Models of Gravity", Bremen -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Announcement on Hyperspace@AEI: http://hyperspace.aei.mpg.de/2012/01/31/inaugural-meeting-of-the-research-t… Starting Wed, Mar 28, 2012 to Fri, Mar 30, 2012 Location: Bremen, Germany Additional Information: http://www.models-of-gravity.org The DFG Research Training Group ''Models of Gravity'' is starting April 1st, 2012. The theoretical research will cover solutions of Einstein equations and its generalizations, the interpretation of these solution through the motion of test objects, and applications of this in astrophysics, cosmology, clocks in space, geodesy, etc. Confirmed invited speakers include: Bernd Bruegmann (Jena) Nathalie Deruelle (Paris) George Ellis (Cape Town) Johanna Erdmenger (Munich) Eva Grebel (Heidelberg) Claus Kiefer (Cologne) Malcolm MacCallum (Bristol) Tanja Mehlstaeubler (Braunschweig) Charles Misner (Maryland) Patrick Peters (Paris) Alena Pravdova (Prague) Mairi Sakellariadou (London) The meeting will start with an opening ceremony on March 28, at 09:30 a.m. and ends March 30, at 4 p.m. The detailed program will soon be published on the webpage http://www.models-of-gravity.org For registration, please send an e-mail to secretariat[AT]models-of-gravity.org No fees are required. +++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++ 1.4 Workshop "Landscapes for Quantum Gravity" in Pavia, Italy ------------------------------------------------------------- Announcement on Hyperspace@AEI: http://hyperspace.aei.mpg.de/2012/01/30/workshop-landscapes-for-quantum-gra… Starting Thu, Feb 16, 2012 to Fri, Feb 17, 2012 Location: Pavia, Italy PHYSICS COLLOQUIA - The Graduate School of Physics - The University of Pavia LANDSCAPES FOR QUANTUM GRAVITY Department of Physics, via Bassi 6, Pavia, Italy In recent years the possible scenarios for a quantum gravity theory have grown more varied than ever. The panorama offers suggestive landscapes ranging from String Theory to an information-theoretic origin of the gravitational field not needing a direct quantization. Loop Quantum Gravity has been an active player in shaping this varied landscape and the idea of this workshop is to offer a panoramic view of the subject with a few Colloquium style talks addressed to graduate students not necessarily familiar with current research in quantum gravity. February Thursday 16th, 2012 10:00-10:50 Francesca Vidotto "General covariant transition amplitude in quantum cosmology" 11:00-15:00 Lunch Break 15:00-15:50 Carlo Rovelli "Covariant LQG" 16:00-16:30 Coffee Break 16:30-17:20 Simone Speziale "Loop quantum gravity and polyhedra" February Friday 17, 2012 10:00-10:50 Giorgio Immirzi "Elementary geometry of Lorentzian spinfoam" 11:00-11:50 Etera Livine "Spinor Networks: from classical discrete geometry to quantum gravity" 12:00-15:00 Lunch Break 15:00-15:50 Edward Wilson-Ewing "Loop Quantum Cosmology" 16:00-16:50 Discussion and final remarks (Mauro Carfora) +++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++ 1.5 Geometry and topology in (quantum) gravity session at QQQ 2012 conference in Tallinn, Estonia ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Announcement on Hyperspace@AEI: http://hyperspace.aei.mpg.de/2012/01/29/qqq-12-3-quantum-algebra-geometry-i… Starting Tue, Jul 10, 2012 to Sat, Jul 14, 2012 Location: Talinn, Estonia Additional Information: http://www.agmp.eu/qqq/sess_pro.php?con=tln12&sess=GTG The conference "QQQ 12 - 3Quantum: Algebra Geometry Information", July 10-14 2012 in Talinn, Estonia, will host a parallel session "Geometry and topology in (quantum) gravity". The conference is a satellite conference of the 6th European Congress of Mathematics, the 13th Marcel Grossmann Meeting and the International Congress on mathematical Physics ICMP 12. It covers a wide variety of topics from (quantum) gravity, non-commutative geometry, quantum groups, deformation theory and quantisation and topological field theories. If you are interested in attending the conference and presenting a talk in the session "Geometry and topology in (quantum) gravity", please register as soon as possible on the conference website with the correct information on the session and title and abstract of your proposed talk: http://www.agmp.eu/qqq/app.php Currently, there is no funding to cover travel or accommodation costs for speakers. However, there is a possibility of waiving the conference fee for junior scientists (PhD students). +++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++ 1.6 Central European Relativity Seminar in Cracow ------------------------------------------------- Announcement on Hyperspace@AEI: http://hyperspace.aei.mpg.de/2012/01/28/central-european-relativity-seminar/ Starting Thu, Feb 02, 2012 to Sat, Feb 04, 2012 Location: Poland, Cracow Additional Information: http://th.if.uj.edu.pl/~jalmuzna/seminar/seminar/Main.html The topic of the meeting is general relativity. The main purpose is to bring the relativity community in Central Europe together and to provide a forum for young researchers (students and postdocs). 2-4 February 2012 Institute of Physics Jagiellonian University, Reymonta 4, Cracow. Lecture room 057 Organizers: Robert Beig (Vienna) Piotr Bizoń (Cracow) Piotr Chruściel (Vienna) Helmut Friedrich (Golm) +++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++ 1.7 Black Holes and Information at KITP, Santa Barbara ------------------------------------------------------ Announcement on Hyperspace@AEI: http://hyperspace.aei.mpg.de/2012/01/27/black-holes-and-information/ Starting Mon, May 21, 2012 to Fri, May 25, 2012 Location: Santa Barbara, CA, USA Additional Information: http://www.kitp.ucsb.edu/activities/dbdetails?acro=bitbranes-c12 Location and Date: KITP, University of California, Santa Barbara May 21, 2012 - May 25, 2012 Conference begins 8:00am May 21, 2012 with registration. Planned ending time is roughly 5pm on Friday May 25. Coordinators: Vijay Balasubramanian, Alex Maloney, Don Marolf, Joan Simon Scientific Advisors: Joseph Polchinski, Theodore Jacobson See http://www.kitp.ucsb.edu/activities/dbdetails?acro=bitbranes-c12 The physics of black holes and the resolution of the information paradox remain among the deepest mysteries in theoretical physics. In addition to their intrinsic interest, many arguments suggest that these issues are intimately related to the emergence of locality, causality, and even spacetime itself from some more fundamental description. ``Black Holes and information'' will focus on such relations, and in particular on the notion of 'holography' which has played a crucial role in many recent developments. The conference will also explore extensions of these ideas to new settings, and the corresponding implications. Central questions include the implications of holography for cosmology, the holographic understanding of time and closed universes, and the microscopic interpretation of observer-dependent horizons (e.g., in inflating spacetimes). The conference will bring together a diverse group of researchers to discuss these important issues, with the goal of exchanging ideas and seeding scientific collaborations. Participants will include experts in string theory and classical General Relativity, researchers working in quantum information theory and non-equilibrium statistical mechanics, and theorists interested in strongly coupled field theories and the AdS/CFT correspondence. LIST OF INVITED SPEAKERS TO DATE * Ashtekar, Abhay (Penn State) * de Boer, Jan (UvA, Amsterdam) * Denef, Frederik (Harvard) * Hayden, Patrick (McGill Univ.) * Larsen, Finn (Univ. Michigan) * Maldacena, Juan (Princeton) * Mathur, Samir (Ohio State Univ.) * Minwalla, Shiraz (Tata Inst., India) * Sen, Ashoke (Mehta Research Inst., India) * Susskind, Leonard (Stanford) * Takayanagi, Tadashi (IPMU, Japan) * Yin, Xi (Harvard) Additional speakers will be added closer to the conference date. Details and Deadlines: Registration deadline is: Apr 21, 2012 Registration includes: Daily refreshment breaks, lunches and two Special Events Dinners. Registration Fee: $300; Fee Due: Apr 21, 2012 Late Registration Fee: $350 Registration is through the website at http://www.kitp.ucsb.edu/activities/dbdetails?acro=bitbranes-c12 However, the site to pay the registration fee will not be available until February 21, 2012. +++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++ 1.8 Workshop on Gravitational Wave Bursts in Tobermory, Scotland, UK -------------------------------------------------------------------- Announcement on Hyperspace@AEI: http://hyperspace.aei.mpg.de/2012/01/24/workshop-on-gravitational-wave-burs… Starting Mon, May 28, 2012 to Wed, May 30, 2012 Location: Tobermory, Scotland, UK Additional Information: http://www.physics.gla.ac.uk/igr/GWbursts2012 We are pleased to announce the second workshop on Gravitational Wave Bursts (GWbursts). The workshop will take place in Scotland during May 28-30, 2012. Following the spirit of the first GWbursts meeting (http://gwbursts.org/) in Chichen-Itza, Mexico in 2009, for this workshop we have selected the small fishing port of Tobermory, in the Isle of Mull, off the west coast of Scotland (http://www.tobermory.co.uk/) GWbursts workshops aim at bringing together in a remote and inspiring location lead scientists in astrophysics, data analysis and numerical relativity to discuss, analyze and explore innovative views on the Transient Gravitational Wave Universe. The workshop will focus on: • Astrophysics behind GWburst sources (e.g. stellar core collapse, gamma-ray bursts, cosmic strings, compact object mergers, isolated neutron stars) and their connection with electromagnetic and neutrino observations. • Challenges to numerically model transient sources and the required accuracy of simulations. • Data analysis methodologies to detect and characterize GWbursts. • Gravitational wave antennas and their capabilities. • Detection of unknown GWburst sources. The workshop will be limited to 60 participants and will emphasize discussion over presentations. To be considered, please follow this link -- http://www.physics.gla.ac.uk/igr/GWbursts2012 -- and submit an application. The deadline to apply is February 17, 2012. Decisions will be announced shortly after. More details can be found at http://www.physics.gla.ac.uk/igr/GWbursts2012 Sincerely, the Scientific Organizing Committee • Laura Cadonati (U. Mass-Amherst) • Ik Siong Heng (Glasgow) • Christian Ott (Caltech) • Pablo Laguna (Georgia Tech) - Chair • Rosalba Perna (Colorado) • Szabi Marka (Columbia) • Deirdre Shoemaker (Georgia Tech) +++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++ 1.9 Gravitation and cosmology session at QQQ 2012 conference in Tallinn, Estonia -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Announcement on Hyperspace@AEI: http://hyperspace.aei.mpg.de/2012/01/24/gravitation-and-cosmology-session-a… Starting Tue, Jul 10, 2012 to Sat, Jul 14, 2012 Location: Tallinn, Estonia Additional Information: http://www.agmp.eu/qqq/sess_pro.php?con=tln12&sess=GC This is the first announcement of the topical session "Gravitation and cosmology" to be held on 10-14 July 2012 in Tallinn, Estonia in the framework of the conference "3Q: Algebra, Geometry, Information". The topics of the session include but are not limited to: - mathematical aspects of classical general relativity theory and its modifications, - quantum properties of the gravitational interaction, - cosmological models in modified theories of gravity and their observational consequences. The session is dedicated to the centenary of Professor Harald Keres (1912-2010) who initiated studies in general relativity in Estonia. The Tallinn conference is a satellite meeting to MG13, the Marcel Grossmann Meeting on General Relativity, held on 1-7 July 2012 in Stockholm, conveniently just across the Baltic sea. For more information and registration please visit the website http://www.agmp.eu/qqq/ +++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++ 1.10 9th LISA Symposium in Paris -------------------------------- Announcement on Hyperspace@AEI: http://hyperspace.aei.mpg.de/2012/01/19/9th-lisa-symposium/ Starting Mon, May 21, 2012 to Fri, May 25, 2012 Location: Paris, France Additional Information: http://lisasymposium2012.in2p3.fr/ The 9th LISA Symposium (2012) will take place at BnF - Paris (National Library of France close to APC Laboratory) on 21 - 25 May 2012. Main topics: LISA, eLISA-NGO, future of space based gravitational wave astronomy, gravitational waves, astrophysics, cosmology The earlier registration deadline is the 20 April 2012. +++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++ 1.11 Workshop on The Physics of De Sitter Spacetime in Hannover ---------------------------------------------------------------- Announcement on Hyperspace@AEI: http://hyperspace.aei.mpg.de/2012/01/18/workshop-on-the-physics-of-de-sitte… Starting Tue, Sep 11, 2012 to Fri, Sep 14, 2012 Location: Hannover, Germany Additional Information: http://hep.physics.uoc.gr/deSitter De Sitter spacetime is the maximally symmetric solution of the field equations of General Relativity when a positive cosmological constant is present. It has been studied extensively for many decades from many viewpoints: as a classical geometry, as a possessor of a large symmetry group, as a background geometry which may or may not be stable under quantum corrections, as a paradigm for inflationary evolution, etc. While these studies have led to important insights concerning the structure and physical implications of de Sitter, they have also led to some controversies most of which still persist. The workshop on the "Physics of de Sitter Spacetime" will take place in the Max Planck Institute for Gravitational Physics (Albert Einstein Institute), Hannover, Germany from September 11, 2012 until September 14, 2012. The purpose of the workshop is to provide a venue for young outstanding researchers in the field to present their work and participate in extensive discussions. +++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++ 1.12 Recent Developments in Gravity (NEB 15), Crete (Greece) ------------------------------------------------------------ Announcement on Hyperspace@AEI: http://hyperspace.aei.mpg.de/2012/01/10/recent-developments-in-gravity-neb-… Starting Wed, Jun 20, 2012 to Sat, Jun 23, 2012 Location: Chania, Crete, Greece Additional Information: http://conferences.hsrgc.gr This is the 15th biennial Hellenic conference conference "Recent Developments in Gravity (NEB 15)". The conference will take place at the Technological Educational Institute of Crete in Chania, Crete (Greece), from Wednesday, June 20th, to Saturday, June 23rd, 2012. The purpose of the conference will be to discuss the present status and latest developments in relativity, gravitation and cosmology. The program will consist of invited, keynote and contributed talks. Invited Speakers: A. Blanchard, L. Blanchet, M. Dafermos, C. Kiefer, E. Kiritsis, S. Mukhanov, D. Shoemaker. Keynote Speakers: N. Andersson, E. Berti, S. Fairhurst, B. Kleihaus, P. Laguna, N. Mavromatos, S. Odintsov, J. Sola, J. Zanelli. Organizing Committee: T. Papakostas [CHAIR], D. Pliakis [Co-CHAIR], T. Apostolatos, K. Kokkotas, M. Plionis, M. Sakellariadou, E. Vagenas. ================================================================= 2. Jobs ================================================================= 2.1 Postdoctoral position in theoretical gravitational-wave physics at Southampton ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Announcement on Hyperspace@AEI: http://hyperspace.aei.mpg.de/2012/01/26/postdoctoral-position-in-theoretica… Institution: Southampton, UK Deadline: Wed, Feb 29, 2012 The Southampton General Relativity Group is offering a postdoctoral position in theoretical gravitational-wave physics, starting in the spring or Autumn of 2012. The post is for 2 years, with extension to 3 years possible subject to satisfactory performance. The successful candidate will be expected to undertake research within an STFC-funded project aimed at modelling the dynamics in strongly gravitating binaries, with applications to gravitational-wave astronomy. The University of Southampton (UK) is home to a large research group in classical General Relativity. The Group comprises 6 staff members (Nils Andersson, Leor Barack, Carsten Gundlach, Ian Hawke, Ian Jones and James Vickers), 4 postdocs (Sarp Akcay, Sam Dolan, Wynn Ho and Adam Pound) and 10 research students. Research interests in the group include gravitational waves from black holes and neutron stars, black hole perturbation theory, gravitational self-force, numerical relativity, and the dynamics of large-scale superfluids. In order to be considered for this post, the applicant must have a PhD or equivalent in Physics, Mathematics or a related discipline, and have a track record in at least one of the following research areas: physics of classical black holes, gravitational-wave theory, numerical relativity, gravitational radiation reaction. A complete application should include (i) a Curriculum Vitae, including a list of publications; (ii) a brief (<1 page) statement of research interests; and (iii) the names and addresses of three referees. Please apply online through http://www.jobs.soton.ac.uk (use the top-right search bar quoting vacancy number 087112PJ, and proceed as instructed). Please also send a copy of your application to Leor Barack, leor[AT]soton.ac.uk For informal inquiries contact Leor Barack. +++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++ 2.2 Two postdoctoral positions in theoretical cosmology at Portsmouth --------------------------------------------------------------------- Announcement on Hyperspace@AEI: http://hyperspace.aei.mpg.de/2012/01/17/two-postdoctoral-positions-in-theor… Institution: Portsmouth, UK Additional Information: http://www.port.ac.uk/vacancies/research/ The Institute of Cosmology and Gravitation (ICG) intends to appoint two postdoctoral researchers in theoretical cosmology The researcher will work on projects funded by the Science and Technology Facilities Council, in particular models for modified gravity and dark energy. The post is for two years, starting on 1st OCTOBER 2012. (Job reference: 10003838). The other post is for one year, starting as early as possible but no later than 1st OCTOBER 2012. Applications in all areas of cosmology are welcomed. (Job reference: 10003839) A PhD degree and relevant research experience are required. The ICG consists of 12 academic staff, 14 postdoctoral researchers and 18 PhD students, and is a member of a number of survey projects including Euclid, BigBOSS and the UK Low Frequency Array (LOFAR:UK). The University of Portsmouth is a member of the South-East Physics Network (SEPnet), hosts the 1000-core SEPnet-ASTRO supercomputer (SCIAMA) and is part of the UK National Cosmology Supercomputer Consortium (COSMOS). More information is available at http://www.icg.port.ac.uk/ For informal enquiries please contact Kazuya Koyama (Kazuya.Koyama[AT]port.ac.uk), or by calling +44 (0)23 9284 5151 Applications (an application form, CV, research statement and names of up to 3 referees) should be sent by email to jobs[AT]port.ac.uk and copied to icg-admin[AT]port.ac.uk. Applicants should also arrange for up to 3 reference letters to be sent by email to icg-admin[AT]port.ac.uk, to arrive by the closing date, 27th January 2012. Late applications may be considered until the post has been filled. +++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++ 2.3 Two Tenure-Track Positions in Theoretical Physics at Sao Paulo ------------------------------------------------------------------ Announcement on Hyperspace@AEI: http://hyperspace.aei.mpg.de/2012/01/11/two-permanent-positions-in-theoreti… Institution: Sao Paulo, Brazil Deadline: Mon, Feb 27, 2012 Additional Information: http://fma.if.usp.br/jobs/ We are inviting highly motivated and gifted candidates to apply for two new tenure-track positions at the Department of Mathematical Physics (DFMA), Sao Paulo University. The DFMA is the leading Theoretical Physics group in Brazil, and the University of Sao Paulo has been consistently ranked the top research institution in Latin America. The DFMA has a strong commitment to support research at the highest level, and these permanent positions are part of an ongoing process aimed at strengthening our group with new hirings over the next 3-5 years. One position (IF-96/11) is for fundamental research in Quantum Field Theory, or in the field of Mathematical Physics (i.e., mathematically rigorous methods and results in Quantum Field Theory, Statistical Mechanics, Quantum Mechanics, Classical Mechanics, General Relativity, Many-Body Theory, Dynamical Systems and Chaos, Random Matrices, Disordered Systems or Integrable Systems.) The other position (IF-97/11) is open to researchers in all theoretical areas of Particle Physics, Cosmology, Gravitation and Quantum Many-Body Theory. The positions are comparable to tenure track appointments in the US system, with an entry level as assistant professor. Candidates are expected to develop a vigorous research program for which strong local and federal support will be available through competitive grants. The candidates should also demonstrate promise for excellence in teaching and mentoring at both the undergraduate and graduate levels. The deadline for applications is February 27th 2012. The selection process will require the presence of the candidate in Sao Paulo for a few days and the selection procedure can be made in English. For further information and instruction on how to apply, plase contact fismat[AT]fma.if.usp.br or visit the website http://fma.if.usp.br/jobs/ +++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++ 2.4 EDECS-PhD position in Cosmology at LUTH (Paris) --------------------------------------------------- Announcement on Hyperspace@AEI: http://hyperspace.aei.mpg.de/2012/01/05/edecs-phd-position-in-cosmology-at-… Institution: Paris, France Deadline: Thu, Mar 01, 2012 Applications are invited for a three-year PhD scholarship at the “Laboratoire Univers et Theorie” of the Astronomical Observatory of Paris funded by the ERC-Starting Grant “EDECS: Exploring Dark Energy through Cosmic Structures”, coordinated by P.S. Corasaniti. Candidates strongly motivated to pursue a rigorous research program in cosmology and with expertise in numerical scientific computing are preferred, but all outstanding candidates will be considered. The research will focus on cosmic structure formation in non-standard cosmological scenarios using numerical cosmological simulations. The successful candidate will develop and analyze large volume high-resolution simulations, and test model predictions against astrophysical data. The appointment begins Fall 2012. Candidates should have a Master in Physics/Astronomy by the starting date. The deadline for applications is 1 March 2012. Candidates should send a CV, a list of publications (if any), a statement of research interests and arrange for two letters of recommendations to be sent to Pier Stefano Corasaniti via e-mail to EDECS.PHD2012[AT]obspm.fr. For further information contact EDECS.ERC[AT]obspm.fr. +++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++ 2.5 EDECS-Postdoc in Cosmology at LUTH (Paris) ---------------------------------------------- Announcement on Hyperspace@AEI: http://hyperspace.aei.mpg.de/2012/01/05/edecs-postdoc-in-cosmology-at-luth-… Institution: Paris, France The cosmology group at the “Laboratoire Univers et Theorie (LUTH) of the Astronomical Observatory of Paris invites applications for one postdoctoral position in the framework of the ERC-Starting Grant “EDECS: Exploring Dark Energy through Cosmic Structures”, coordinated by P.S. Corasaniti. Candidates with a background in numerical cosmological simulations, theoretical modeling of non-linear structure formation and/or expertise in comparison between observations and simulations are strongly encouraged to apply. The cosmology group has an active research program on several topics in cosmology. A common effort is devoted to the realization of large volume very high-resolution numerical simulations of dark energy dominated scenarios. The group has access to several super-computing facilities (IDRIS, CCRT and TGCC) and benefits from national and international collaborations. Group members are also involved in a number of observational programs such as the XMM-XXL cluster sur vey and the preparation to the EUCLID mission. The appointment is for two years beginning Fall 2012. Candidates should have a PhD in Physics/Astronomy by the starting date. The deadline for applications is 1 February 2012. Candidates should send a CV including list of publications, a statement of research interests, and arrange for three letters of reference to be sent to Pier Stefano Corasaniti via e-mail to EDECS.POSTDOC2012[AT]obspm.fr. For further information contact EDECS.ERC[AT]obspm.fr. ================================================================= 3. News ================================================================= 3.1 Death of Franco Pacini, Florence ------------------------------------ Announcement on Hyperspace@AEI: http://hyperspace.aei.mpg.de/2012/01/28/death-of-franco-pacini/ Dear Colleagues, I regret having to inform you that Franco Pacini died in Florence. Just before the discovery of the first pulsar (Hewish et al. 1968), Franco Pacini published a paper in Nature (vol. 216, 1967, p.567) on a possible emission mechanism which could power the Crab nebula. He proposed a rapidly rotating neutron star with a strong magnetic field emitting dipole radiation. After the discovery of the first pulsar, Pacini (1968) and Gold (1968), independently, suggested that pulsars are rotating neutron stars. Best regards Ignazio Bombaci +++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++ 3.2 Living Reviews in Relativity: article updates by Winicour and Adamo et al. ------------------------------------------------------------------------------ Announcement on Hyperspace@AEI: http://hyperspace.aei.mpg.de/2012/01/26/living-reviews-in-relativity-articl… Additional Information: http://relativity.livingreviews.org/ Living Reviews in Relativity has published major updates of the reviews on "Characteristic Evolution and Matching" by Jeffrey Winicour and on "Null Geodesic Congruences, Asymptotically-Flat Spacetimes and Their Physical Interpretation" by Timothy A. Adamo, Ezra T. Newman, and Carlos Kozameh in January 2012. Please find the abstract and further details below. ------------------ PUB.NO. lrr-2012-2 Winicour, Jeffrey "Characteristic Evolution and Matching" ACCEPTED: 2012-01-04 PUBLISHED: 2012-01-25 FULL ARTICLE AT: http://www.livingreviews.org/lrr-2012-2 ABSTRACT: I review the development of numerical evolution codes for general relativity based upon the characteristic initial value problem. Progress in characteristic evolution is traced from the early stage of 1D feasibility studies to 2D axisymmetric codes that accurately simulate the oscillations and gravitational collapse of relativistic stars and to current 3D codes that provide pieces of a binary black hole spacetime. Cauchy codes have now been successful at simulating all aspects of the binary black hole problem inside an artificially constructed outer boundary. A prime application of characteristic evolution is to extend such simulations to null infinity where the waveform from the binary inspiral and merger can be unambiguously computed. This has now been accomplished by Cauchy-characteristic extraction, where data for the characteristic evolution is supplied by Cauchy data on an extraction worldtube inside the artificial outer boundary. The ultimate application of characteris tic evolution is to eliminate the role of this outer boundary by constructing a global solution via Cauchy-characteristic matching. Progress in this direction is discussed. ------------------ PUB.NO. lrr-2012-1 Newman, Ezra Ted and Kozameh, Carlos and Adamo, Timothy M. "Null Geodesic Congruences, Asymptotically-Flat Spacetimes and Their Physical Interpretation" ACCEPTED: 2012-01-16 PUBLISHED: 2012-01-24 FULL ARTICLE AT: http://www.livingreviews.org/lrr-2012-1 ABSTRACT: A priori, there is nothing very special about shear-free or asymptotically shear-free null geodesic congruences. Surprisingly, however, they turn out to possess a large number of fascinating geometric properties and to be closely related, in the context of general relativity, to a variety of physically significant effects. It is the purpose of this paper to try to fully develop these issues. This work starts with a detailed exposition of the theory of shear-free and asymptotically shear-free null geodesic congruences, i.e., congruences with shear that vanishes at future conformal null infinity. A major portion of the exposition lies in the analysis of the space of regular shear-free and asymptotically shear-free null geodesic congruences. This analysis leads to the space of complex analytic curves in an auxiliary four-complex dimensional space, H-space. They in turn play a dominant role in the applications. The applications center around the problem of extracting interior physical properties of an asymptotically-flat spacetime directly from the asymptotic gravitational (and Maxwell) field itself, in analogy with the determination of total charge by an integral over the Maxwell field at infinity or the identification of the interior mass (and its loss) by (Bondi's) integrals of the Weyl tensor, also at infinity. More specifically, we will see that the asymptotically shear-free congruences lead us to an asymptotic definition of the center-of-mass and its equations of motion. This includes a kinematic meaning, in terms of the center-of-mass motion, for the Bondi three-momentum. In addition, we obtain insights into intrinsic spin and, in general, angular momentum, including an angular-momentum--conservation law with well-defined flux terms. When a Maxwell field is present, the asymptotically shear-free congruences allow us to determine/define at infinity a center-of-charge world line and intrinsic magnetic dipole moment. UPCOMING ARTICLES AT: http://relativity.livingreviews.org/Articles/upcoming.html +++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++ 3.3 Gravitational Wave Tests of Alternative Theories of Gravity in the Advanced Detector Era at MSU --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Announcement on Hyperspace@AEI: http://hyperspace.aei.mpg.de/2012/01/23/gravitational-wave-tests-of-alterna… Gravitational wave tests of the theory of gravity have the potential to shed light on some of the most profound challenges facing physics today: from explanations of cosmic acceleration and dark matter to the reconciliation of gravity and quantum theory. Advanced LIGO and Virgo are expected to come on-line around 2015, and we expect to make routine gravitational wave detections with these instruments. To begin preparations for this era, the gravity group at Montana State University will be hosting a workshop on April 5th, 6th and 7th, 2013, so please mark your calendars! This workshop will be a continuation of that organized by UWM's Center for Gravitation and Cosmology. The goal of this workshop is to plan and prepare for the era of advanced detectors. The workshop will consists of a few plenary overview talks, intended to set the stage for discussion about theoretical framework, data analysis techniques and implementation, to get the most out of the detections we expect this decade. The workshop will be structured relatively informally with focus sessions on gravitational wave bursts, compact binary systems, stochastic background, and continuous waves. A dedicated website will be set up later for this workshop with a registration page, but there will be no registration costs. Simultaneously with the workshop, MSU's Gravity Group, in collaboration with MSU's Music Dept, MSU's Art and Film Dept and Princeton's Astrophysics Dept, will be putting together a one-week, outreach event entitled "Celebrating Einstein" on April 1st--6th, 2013. This event will consist of several public talks, an arts exhibit and two multimedia performances, featuring gravitational wave sounds and simulations by the numerical relativity community. All events are free and we encourage all to attend. For more information: Nico Yunes (nyunes[AT]physics.montana.edu) +++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++ 3.4 eLISA(NGO) - Revealing a hidden Universe: opening a new chapter of discovery -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Announcement on Hyperspace@AEI: http://hyperspace.aei.mpg.de/2012/01/19/elisango-revealing-a-hidden-univers… Additional Information: http://www.elisa-ngo.org/ GWNotes paper, Yellow Book, website online The main references to eLISA(NGO) are available. It is the new ESA space-based gravitational wave detector, candidate for L1 mission in Cosmic Vision framework. Mission name: ‎"eLISA(NGO) - Revealing a hidden Universe: opening a new chapter of discovery" - paper (science case): http://arxiv.org/abs/1201.3621 - website: http://www.elisa-ngo.org/ - Yellow Book (ESA document): https://lisa-light.aei.mpg.de/lisa-light/pub/ScienceWorkingTeam/YellowBook/… +++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++ 3.5 Call for nominations: fellows of the GRG Society ---------------------------------------------------- Announcement on Hyperspace@AEI: http://hyperspace.aei.mpg.de/2012/01/17/call-for-nominations-fellows-of-the… The International Society on General Relativity and Gravitation has instituted Fellowships to recognize its outstanding members. In a steady state we expect the total number of Fellows to constitute approximately 10% of the membership. To reach this goal and to ensure that younger members of our Society are also elected in the initial rounds, the following procedure will be used: i) Fellows will be elected once every three years, prior to the GRG conferences. For the first two rounds (GR19 and GR20), at least half of the number of Fellows elected in any one round should be of 45 years or less of age on the day the conference begins. ii) The fellowship committee for GR20 will be asked to elect 10 fellows. Thereafter, the committees will elect approximately 1.5% of the members per 3-year cycle. The precise number for each round will be established at the prior GR meeting by the Executive Committee of the Society. The primary criterion for election is excellence in research, especially the impact of candidate’s work on the development of our field. The candidate will be generally expected to have made additional contributions to the field, for example through service, and/or outreach, and/or books and monographs, etc. In exceptional cases such criteria could constitute the primary basis of nomination provided these activities have had influence on a significant portion of our community, not just the home institution of the candidate. Nominations are due by December 31st, 2012. Any member of the Society can make nominations but self-nominations will not be considered. The nomination packet will consist of: i) A letter summarizing the basis for nomination; ii) An up-to-date CV and publication list of the nominee; iii) 1 to 3 supporting letters from members of the Society, and, iv) A proposed citation. Once made, the nomination will remain active for two additional rounds. Further details can be found at http://www.isgrg.org/fellowrules.php Electronic nominations in the form of emailed PDF files are strongly preferred. The nomination PDF files should be sent to the Chair of the Fellowship committee, Clifford Will (cmw[AT]wuphys.wustl.edu) If an electronic nomination is not possible, a single paper copy of the nomination should be mailed or faxed to Clifford Will at Department of Physics, Campus Box 1105 Washington University 1 Brookings Drive St. Louis MO 63130 USA Fax: 1-314-935-9200 The elected Fellows will be inducted during the Business Meeting of the Society at GR 20 in Warsaw, 8 – 13 July, 2013. +++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++ 3.6 2012 Awards for Essays on Gravitation ----------------------------------------- Announcement on Hyperspace@AEI: http://hyperspace.aei.mpg.de/2012/01/11/2012-awards-for-essays-on-gravitati… Additional Information: http://www.gravityresearchfoundation.org In 2012 for our sixty-third competition, the Trustees of the Gravity Research Foundation are offering five awards for short essays for the purpose of stimulating thought and encouraging work on gravitation. The stipulations follow. (1) The Trustees of the Gravity Research Foundation will make these Awards on May 15, 2012 for the best well-written essays, 1500 words or less (excluding abstracts, diagrams, references and minimal equations), on the subject of gravitation, its theory, applications, or effects. (2) The First Award will be $4000.00 The Second Award will be 1250.00 The Third Award will be 1000.00 The Fourth Award will be 750.00 The Fifth Award will be 500.00 (3) Essays must be in English and e-mailed in a single PDF file before April 1, 2012. Early submission is desirable. One essay only will be accepted from each author. Notify us within 24 hours if you do not receive an e-mail confirmation of your submission. (4) Title pages should include essay title; authors’ names, complete mailing and e-mail addresses; submission date; an abstract of 125 words or less; and the statement: “Essay written for the Gravity Research Foundation 2012 Awards for Essays on Gravitation.” Pages should be numbered. (5) The decision of the judges will be final and no reviews will be provided. (6) Please check the list of winners to be posted on our website: http://www.gravityresearchfoundation.org around May 15, 2012. We will attempt to send all participants a general e-mail notification. (7) The five award-winning essays will be published in a special issue of the International Journal of Modern Physics D (IJMPD). Authors of essays designated Honorable Mention will be invited to submit their essays to the IJMPD where these may undergo additional refereeing at editorial discretion for possible publication. Authors of all other essays are free and encouraged to publish their essays after May 15th. Submission e-mail address: George M. Rideout, Jr., President (grideoutjr[AT]aol.com) Gravity Research Foundation PO BOX 81389 Welleesley Hills MA 02481-0004 USA Recent First Award Winners: 2011 – Ivan Agullo, Penn State and Leonard Parker, University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee 2010 – Mark Van Raamsdonk, University of British Columbia, Vancouver 2009 – Alexander Burinskii, Russian Academy of Sciences, Russia 2008 – T. Padmanabhan, IUCAA, Pune, India 2007 – S. Carlip, University of California at Davis 2006 – Vijay Balasubramanian, University of Pennsylvania; Donald Marolf, University of California at Santa Barbara and Moshe Rozali, University of British Columbia 2005 - John Ellis, CERN; N. E. Mavromatos, King’s College London and D. V. Nanopoulos, Texas A and M University 2004 - Maulik Parikh, Columbia University, New York 2003 - Martin Bojowald, The Pennsylvania State University 2002 - Steven B. Giddings, University of California at Santa Barbara and Stanford University, Stanford, California 2001 - Csaba Csaki and Joshua Erlich, Los Alamos National Lab and Christophe Grojean, University of California at Berkeley 2000 - Arthur Lue and Erick J. Weinberg, Columbia University, New York 1999 - John Ellis, CERN; N. E. Mavromatos, University of Oxford and D. V. Nanopoulos, Texas A and M University 1998 - Viqar Husain, University of British Columbia, Vancouver 1997 - Robert Myers, McGill University, Quebec

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[Hyperspace-list] Hyperspace Bulletin for January 2012
by hyperspace＠aei.mpg.de 02 Jan '12

02 Jan '12

################################################################# Table of Contents ################################################################# 1. Conferences 1.1 15th Capra Meeting in Maryland 1.2 Spanish Relativity Meeting in Portugal: ERE2012 (first announcement) 1.3 2nd Iberian Gravitational-Wave Meeting 2012 1.4 BritGrav 12 (first announcement) 1.5 4th International Summer School on Astroparticle Physics (Nijmegen12) 1.6 15th East Coast Gravity Meeting and Josh Goldberg Fest at Syracuse 1.7 X Edition of the SIGRAG School: Astrophysical Black Holes 2. Jobs 2.1 Postdoctoral position in theoretical gravity at University of Tartu 2.2 Max Planck Partner Group postdoctoral positions at IISER-TVM (India) 2.3 Postdoctoral positions in gravitational waves/numerical relativity at UIB/Palma 2.4 Postdoctoral position in gravitational waves at NASA Goddard and University of Maryland 3. News 3.1 New Book by Anja Skaar Jacobsen: "Leon Rosenfeld" ================================================================= 1. Conferences ================================================================= 1.1 15th Capra Meeting in Maryland ---------------------------------- Announcement on Hyperspace@AEI: http://hyperspace.aei.mpg.de/2011/12/26/15th-capra-meeting-on-radiation-rea… Starting Mon, Jun 11, 2012 to Fri, Jun 15, 2012 Location: College Park, MD, USA Additional Information: http://www.cscamm.umd.edu/programs/capra12/ We are pleased to announce that the 2012 Capra Meeting on Radiation Reaction will be held in the Center for Scientific Computation and Mathematical Modeling (CSCAMM) at the University of Maryland, College Park, from June 11 to June 15, 2012. Following the Capra tradition, the meeting will focus primarily on aspects of the self-force in general relativity, although broader topics related to gravitational-wave physics will also be discussed. More information and a registration form can be found on the conference website: http://www.cscamm.umd.edu/programs/capra12/ For full consideration, applications to participate must be submitted by April 20, 2012. +++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++ 1.2 Spanish Relativity Meeting in Portugal: ERE2012 (first announcement) ------------------------------------------------------------------------ Announcement on Hyperspace@AEI: http://hyperspace.aei.mpg.de/2011/12/21/spanish-relativity-meeting-in-portu… Starting Mon, Sep 03, 2012 to Fri, Sep 07, 2012 Location: Guimarães, Portugal Additional Information: http://w3.math.uminho.pt/~ERE2012 We are pleased to announce the "Spanish Relativity Meeting in Portugal (ERE2012)", September 3-7, 2012, at the University of Minho, in Guimarães (world heritage site and European capital of culture in 2012). Information about the program and registration will be included on a second announcement and will appear at http://w3.math.uminho.pt/~ERE2012 The Local Organizing Committee, Alfonso Garcia-Parrado Estelita Vaz Filipe Mena Filipe Moura Irene Brito Piedade Machado Ramos +++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++ 1.3 2nd Iberian Gravitational-Wave Meeting 2012 ------------------------------------------------ Announcement on Hyperspace@AEI: http://hyperspace.aei.mpg.de/2011/12/21/2nd-iberian-gravitational-wave-meet… Starting Wed, Feb 15, 2012 to Fri, Feb 17, 2012 Location: Barcelona, Spain Additional Information: http://www.ice.csic.es/research/IGWMweb/ Dear Colleagues, this is the official announcement of the 2nd Iberian Gravitational Wave Meeting (IGWM2) that is organized by the Gravitational Wave Astronomy - LISA Group of the Institut de Ciències de l'Espai (CSIC-IEEC) in Barcelona. * Aim: To bring together researchers with interest in the development of Gravitational Wave Astronomy, including researchers from related areas of Astrophysics, Cosmology, and Fundamental Physics. The style of the meeting will be informal and we expect to have significant time for discussions. * Website: http://www.ice.csic.es/research/IGWMweb/index.html Here you will find details on the different aspects of the meeting including updates of the program. * Dates: From February 15th to 17th, 2012 * Venue: Residencia de Investigadores of the National Spanish Research Council (CSIC) in Barcelona, near Las Ramblas. * Accommodation: We recommend you to use the Residencia de Investigadores: http://www.resa.es/eng/Residences/Investigadors Please, when booking let them know you are attending the meeting. For other accommodation options check the meeting website. * Registration: There is no registration fee, but for organizational purposes we kindly ask you to register using the Meeting website. If you are interested in giving a talk, please provide title and abstract in the registration form. * Program: We have a list of plenary speakers and we will elaborate soon a full program with contributed talks. We hope to see you in Barcelona next year. We wish you a nice Christmas break and a happy and fruitful new year 2012! The organizing committee Ivan Lloro Alberto Lobo Miquel Nofrarias Carlos F. Sopuerta Ulrich Sperhake +++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++ 1.4 BritGrav 12 (first announcement) ------------------------------------ Announcement on Hyperspace@AEI: http://hyperspace.aei.mpg.de/2011/12/16/britgrav-12-first-announcement/ Starting Tue, Apr 03, 2012 to Wed, Apr 04, 2012 Location: Southampton, UK Additional Information: http://www.soton.ac.uk/~cjg/britgrav12 The 12th BritGrav (British Gravity) Meeting will be held on 3/4 April 2012 in the School of Mathematics, University of Southampton. The programme begins with coffee at 10.30 on Tuesday, with the first talk at 11, and ends at 4.30 on Wednesday. The meeting covers all areas of classical and quantum gravity including astrophysics, cosmology and experiments, and is intended to further collaborations and allow young researchers to showcase their work. There is no registration fee, and participants are responsible for their own accommodation, meals and travel. All PhD students and postdocs will be able to give a talk, others if time allows. If you plan to participate, please email Carsten Gundlach, cjg[AT]soton.ac.uk. If you want to give a talk, please send a title and abstract (which can be amended later). More information will be posted on http://www.soton.ac.uk/~cjg/britgrav12 . A limited amount of funding will be available from the Gravitational Physics Group of the Institute of Physics to assist with travel and accommodation costs for research students. Carsten Gundlach and Nils Andersson (University of Southampton) +++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++ 1.5 4th International Summer School on Astroparticle Physics (Nijmegen12) ------------------------------------------------------------------------- Announcement on Hyperspace@AEI: http://hyperspace.aei.mpg.de/2011/12/15/4th-international-summer-school-on-… Starting Wed, Jul 25, 2012 to Fri, Aug 03, 2012 Location: Kleve, Germany Additional Information: http://nijmegen12.hef.ru.nl/ The 4th International Summer School on Astroparticle Physics (NIJMEGEN12) is intended for graduate students and post-docs. The school provides a fairly comprehensive coverage of modern theoretical and observational developments in astroparticle physics. Topics include: Cosmology, Cosmic Microwave Background, Gravitational Waves, Neutrinos, High Energy Cosmic Rays, Gamma Rays, Dark Matter, and Dark Energy. Lectures are given in the morning while the afternoons are reserved for a special training project aimed at acquiring skills in presenting, defending, and reviewing modern research proposals in astroparticle physics. The NIJMEGEN12 Summer School will take place at Schloss Gnadenthal, Gnadenthal 8, 47533 Kleve, Germany (http://www.gnadenthal.de) List of lecturers Matthias Bartelmann (University of Heidelberg), Cosmology Antonella Castellina (University Torino/INFN), Ultra-High-Energy Cosmic Rays Kenneth Ganga (APC, Paris), Cosmic Microwave Background Karl Kosack, (CEA, Saclay), High-Energy Gamma Rays Manfred Lindner (MPI, Heidelberg), Neutrino Properties Nergis Mavalvala, (MIT, Cambridge), Gravitational Wave Detection Ilya Mandel (University of Birmingham), Gravitational Wave Astrophysics Julie McEnery (NASA GSFC), High-Energy Gamma Rays Teresa Montaruli, (University of Geneva), High-Energy Cosmic Neutrinos Georg Raffelt (MPI, Munich), Neutrinos in Astrophysics Subir Sarkar (Oxford University), Dark Matter Roberta Sparvoli (University of Rome), High-Energy Cosmic Rays Evening speakers Frank Linde (Nikhef, Amsterdam), LHC Harry Collins (Cardiff University), Gravity's Shadow Registration The deadline for early registration is April 1st, 2012 (890.- EUR fee). Registration closes June 1st, 2012 (990.- EUR fee). See the website for more details. Organizing Committee Jörg R. Hörandel, Department of Astrophysics, Radboud University Nijmegen Piet J. Mulders, VU University, Amsterdam Marieke Postma, Nikhef, Amsterdam Elena Maria Rossi, Leiden Observatory, University of Leiden Ad M. van den Berg (chair), Kernfysisch Versneller Instituut, University of Groningen Anna Watts, API/GRAPPA, University of Amsterdam +++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++ 1.6 15th East Coast Gravity Meeting and Josh Goldberg Fest at Syracuse ---------------------------------------------------------------------- Announcement on Hyperspace@AEI: http://hyperspace.aei.mpg.de/2011/12/05/15th-east-coast-gravity-meeting-and… Starting Fri, Apr 20, 2012 to Sun, Apr 22, 2012 Location: Syracuse, NY, USA Additional Information: http://www.phy.syr.edu/watson/ecg The 15th East Coast Gravity Meeting (ECG) will be held at Syracuse University, Saturday April 21th and Sunday April 22th, 2012. The meeting is meant to be an informal gathering of researchers working in all fields relating to gravity and cosmology. In addition, this year's meeting will have an additional day of festivities (Friday April 20th) to honor the accomplishments of Josh Goldberg. Josh has made many significant contributions to furthering our knowledge of gravity, some of which were recently featured in a special issue General Relativity and Gravitation. Friday will consist of a half day of invited talks, followed by an evening dinner. ECGM participants are encouraged to attend. +++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++ 1.7 X Edition of the SIGRAG School: Astrophysical Black Holes ------------------------------------------------------------- Announcement on Hyperspace@AEI: http://hyperspace.aei.mpg.de/2011/12/03/x-edition-of-the-sigrag-school-astr… Starting Mon, May 21, 2012 to Sat, May 26, 2012 Location: Como, Italy Additional Information: http://www.centrovolta.it/sigrav2012/ X Edition of the Sigrav Graduate School in Contemporary Relativity and Gravitational Physics ASTROPHYSICAL BLACK HOLES Villa Olmo, May 21-26 May, 2012 The Schools are directed to Ph.D. students and young Post-Docs in Physics, Astronomy and Mathematics who are interested in widening their knowledge in the fields of Physical Cosmology, Relativistic Astrophysics, General Relativity, Experimental Gravity and the Modern Quantum Theories of Gravitation. The Schools wish to introduce students to current problems, highlighting their importance and potential scientific impact. Lecturers will report on theoretical, observational and experimental aspects of the research, reviewing latest achievements in the field. PROGRAM of the X Edition Black holes, weighting from few tens up to few billions solar masses, represent one of the most fascinating objects in modern physics and astrophysics. Their presence can be traced in X-ray binaries, in the center of the Milky Way and of nearby galaxies, and back to early cosmic times, as the power house of luminous quasars. Black holes are a crucial testbed for GR, a key ingredient in galaxy cosmic evolution, and can shine as the loudest sirens in the new field of gravitational wave astronomy. The school will bring together some of the world leading experts to provide a focused overview on astrophysical black holes, both as end-point of stellar evolution and as cosmic probes of the high redshift Universe. COURSES - BLACK HOLES IN ASTROPHYSICS: THEORY: Luciano Rezzolla (Germany) - ACCRETION AND EJECTION THEORY: Andrew King (UK) - GALACTIC BLACK HOLES: Rob Fender (UK) - FORMATION AND COSMIC EVOLUTION OF MASSIVE BLACK HOLES: Andrea Merloni (Germany) - SUPERMASSIVE BLACK HOLES AND NUCLEAR DYNAMICS: David Merritt (USA) - THE GALACTIC CENTRE: Reinhard Genzel (Germany) - ANALYTICAL RELATIVITY OF BLACK HOLES: Thibault Damour and Alessandro Nagar (France) Scientific and Organizing Committee: Monica Colpi (Universita' Bicocca, Milano), Vittorio Gorini (Insubria, Como), Francesco Haardt (Insubria, Como), Ugo Moschella (Insubria, Como), Aldo Treves (Insubria, Como) SIGRAV Council: Massimo Bassan, Carlo Bradaschia, Salvatore Capozziello, Mauro Francaviglia, Luca Lusanna, Sabino Matarrese, Augusto Sagnotti, Luigi Stella, Gaetano Vilasi There will be room for short communications by the participants. Those who want to submit a communication proposal should send a short abstract to grschool[AT]centrovolta.it Proponents will be informed about acceptance of their contribution in due time. Preparatory and follow-up lectures will be delivered at the University of Insubria. REGISTRATION Participants will be accommodated in a room rental near Villa Olmo and will be requested to pay an inclusive fee of EURO 700,00 covering accommodation (in rooms to be shared with other participants), breakfasts, coffee breaks and lunches for the duration of the school. Alternatively, participants may arrange their own accommodation and are requested to pay a registration fee of EURO 350,00, also covering coffee breaks and lunches. It is possible to have a hotel reservation support by downloading the proper accommodation form. Accommodation is not guaranteed after April 23rd 2012. Some support to cover local expenses may be available; those who need support should mention it in their registration and send a short curriculum vitae and a summary of current research (maximum two pages A4). Please note that no support to cover travel expenses will be available. For information also contact directly the Organizing Secretariat at the Centro A. Volta: grschool[AT]centrovolta.it or chiara.stefanetti[AT]centrovolta.it, tel. +39 031 579805, fax +39 031 573395 ================================================================= 2. Jobs ================================================================= 2.1 Postdoctoral position in theoretical gravity at University of Tartu ----------------------------------------------------------------------- Announcement on Hyperspace@AEI: http://hyperspace.aei.mpg.de/2011/12/31/postdoctoral-position-in-theoretica… Institution: Tartu, Estonia Deadline: Sat, Mar 10, 2012 Additional Information: http://hexagon.fi.tartu.ee/ Estonian Science Foundation (ESF) runs two programs offering postdoc grants at Estonian research institutions: MOBILITAS (Researcher Mobility Programme), and ERMOS (Estonian Research Mobility Scheme), financed with a support of FP7 Marie Curie COFUND "People". The gravitation theory group at the Laboratory of Theoretical Physics, Institute of Physics, University of Tartu, Estonia is looking for a suitable postdoc candidate to apply for one of these grants, who would be able to contribute to or complement the ongoing research of the group. Key points General research area: theoretical aspects of gravity; Preferred topics: extensions of Einstein's general relativity (e.g. scalar-tensor gravity), theoretical cosmology beyond the concordance model (especially dark energy). Duration of the grant: 2 or 3 years. Amount of the grant: up to 25,600 EUR per year for salary (pre-tax), 3,200 EUR per year for research costs, and a one-time relocation allowance to move in to Estonia. Eligibility: The postdoctoral research grant can be applied for by a person who has been awarded a doctoral degree or an equivalent qualification not earlier than five years before the start of the grant. (In case that, after obtaining the degree, the applicant was on parental leave or in compulsory military service, the period of qualification is extended by the period of the parental leave or compulsory military service.) Application NB! The postdoc application to ESF is submitted together by the applicant and the host institution. Therefore interested candidates are first invited to send a CV, a list of publications, a brief research proposal, and a letter of recommendation to Dr. Piret Kuusk (piret[AT]fi.tartu.ee), head of the gravitation theory group. The next deadline for applications is - 25 January 2012 for ERMOS, - probably late March 2012 for MOBILITAS. (Due to technical and administrative reasons the application process to ESF has to begin a week or two before the deadline.) +++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++ 2.2 Max Planck Partner Group postdoctoral positions at IISER-TVM (India) ------------------------------------------------------------------------ Announcement on Hyperspace@AEI: http://hyperspace.aei.mpg.de/2011/12/23/max-planck-partner-group-post-docto… Institution: Trivandrum, India Deadline: Mon, Jan 16, 2012 Additional Information: http://www.iisertvm.ac.in/~shanki/group.html Max Planck Partner Group on Cosmology and Gravity, IISER-Thiruvananthapuram intends to appoint two postdoctoral positions in the areas of early-universe cosmology, classical and quantum gravity. A Ph.D. degree and relevant research experience are required for these posts. The positions can start as early as 1st March 2012 and before 1st August 2012. Both these posts are funded under the Max Planck Partner group on cosmology. Currently, the group has 2 post-doctorate fellows and 2 Ph.D. students. Please see the URL http://www.iisertvm.ac.in/~shanki/group.html about the group and its activities. The group strongly interacts with the Max Planck Partner Group on Gravitational waves at IISER-TVM. The fellows of this Partner Group will have the opportunity to visit and interact with members of Albert Einstein Institute, Golm. The positions are available for a period of up to two years. Informal enquiries can be made to S. Shankaranarayanan (shanki[AT]iisertvm.ac.in). Salary: Rs. 2,64,000 - Rs. 2,88,000 per annum Deadline: 16 January 2012 To apply please send CV, research statement and have at least two letters of reference sent by email to: shanki[AT]iisertvm.ac.in with the subject "Application for MP-PG positions - Candidate name". +++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++ 2.3 Postdoctoral positions in gravitational waves/numerical relativity at UIB/Palma ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Announcement on Hyperspace@AEI: http://hyperspace.aei.mpg.de/2011/12/21/postdoctoral-positions-in-gravitati… Institution: Palma, Spain Deadline: Sun, Jan 15, 2012 Additional Information: http://www.uib.es/depart/dfs/GRG Postdoctoral Research Positions in the Gravitational Physics Group at the University of the Balearic Islands (UIB) in Palma de Mallorca, Spain. The UIB Gravitational Physics Group offers one postdoctoral position: * A) a 1.5-year postdoctoral research associate position with the possibility of extension depending on the availability of funding. and welcomes applications to two government-funded programs in coordination with our group: * B) a 3 years postdoctoral position in the "Juan de la Cierva" program, (PhD required before (estimated) September 30, 2012, but not earlier than in the last 3 years) * C) a 5 year tenure track research position in the "Ramón y Cajal" program. (Persons who have obtained their PhD within the last 10 years and have a strong publication record) Applications are welcome in all areas of gravitational physics, but preference will be given to the areas of gravitational wave data analysis, numerical relativity and astrophysical relativity. The group consists of faculty members Carles Bona, Jaume Carot, Sascha Husa, Joan Masso and Alicia Sintes and postdoctoral research fellows Jordi Burguet Castell, Ryuichi Fujita, Denis Pollney, Milton Ruiz, as well as several graduate students. The UIB group is a member of the LIGO and GEO collaborations, and covers a wide range of research interests in numerical relativity, gravitational wave data analysis, mathematical relativity and computational methods. Application for position (A): =================== Applicants should send a cover letter, curriculum vitae, list of publications, brief description of research interests and achievements, and arrange for two letters of recommendation to be sent to gravity.uib.contact[AT]gmail.com -- before January 16. The expected starting date is June 2012, but earlier start dates can be arranged with the applicant. Application for positions (B) and (C): ========================== Applications will have to be sent to the Spanish government, with an estimated deadline of February 15, 2012. Interested candidates should contact us informally before the application process starts. For position (B) only two applications can be supported. Please contact Alicia Sintes (alicia.sintes[AT]uib.es) and Sascha Husa (sascha.husa[AT]uib.es) or any other group member if you have any questions. +++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++ 2.4 Postdoctoral position in gravitational waves at NASA Goddard and University of Maryland ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Announcement on Hyperspace@AEI: http://hyperspace.aei.mpg.de/2011/12/11/postdoctoral-position-in-gravitatio… Institution: College Park, MD, USA Deadline: Thu, Jan 05, 2012 The Gravitational Astrophysics Laboratory at NASA's Goddard Space Flight Center and the Maryland Gravitational Wave Theory Group at the University of Maryland-College Park (UMCP) are seeking applications for a joint postdoctoral position in gravitational waves, possibly opening in the Fall of 2012. The position is for one year with the possibility of renewal for additional years. This position supports a joint project, led by John Baker (GSFC), and Alessandra Buonanno (UMCP), to study the performance of future space-based gravitational-wave instruments in observing binary black-hole mergers. Competitive applicants should have background in source modeling, instrument modeling and/or data analysis. Applicants should submit a curriculum vitae, list of publications, and a description of past research and future research plans, and should arrange for at least three letters of recommendation to be sent to gwt-postdocs[AT]physics.umd.edu It is requested that all application materials be sent as pdf files or as plain text. Please merge all application materials (other than letters of recommendation) into one pdf file if at all possible. The deadline for receipt of all application materials is January 5, 2012. Maryland is an Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action Employer. ================================================================= 3. News ================================================================= 3.1 New Book by Anja Skaar Jacobsen: "Leon Rosenfeld" ----------------------------------------------------- Announcement on Hyperspace@AEI: http://hyperspace.aei.mpg.de/2011/12/12/new-book-by-anja-skaar-jacobsen-leo… Additional Information: http://www.worldscibooks.com/histsci/7776.html LEON ROSENFELD Physics, Philosophy, and Politics in the Twentieth Century by Anja Skaar Jacobsen (Niels Bohr Archive, Denmark) Leon Rosenfeld (1904-1974) was a remarkable, many-sided physicist of exceptional erudition. He was at the centre of modern physics and was well-known as Niels Bohr's close collaborator and spokesman. He also reflected deeply on the history and philosophy of science and its social role from a leftist perspective. His biography illuminates the development, popularization, and reception of quantum physics and its interpretation in addition to the development of the political Left. The book draws extensively from previously untapped, unpublished sources in more than five languages. This book is for students and professionals studying the history of science. 360pp (approx.) Publication date: March 2012 ISBN: 978-981-4307-81-9

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[Hyperspace-list] Hyperspace Bulletin for December 2011
by hyperspace＠aei.mpg.de 02 Dec '11

02 Dec '11

################################################################# Table of Contents ################################################################# 1. Conferences 1.1 Thirteenth Marcel Grossmann Meeting (MG13) in Stockholm 1.2 14th Canadian Conference on General Relativity and Relativistic Astrophysics 1.3 16th Paris Cosmology Colloquium "The New Standard Model of the Universe: Lambda Warm Dark Matter. Theory and Observations" 1.4 First Dutch Gravitational Wave Meeting in Amsterdam 1.5 Chalonge School Meudon Workshop 2012 "Warm Dark Matter Galaxy Formation in Agreement with Observations" 1.6 2nd Iberian Gravitational-Wave Meeting 2012 in Barcelona 2. Jobs 2.1 Postdoctoral positions at the Center for Gravitation, Cosmology and Astrophysics at UW-Milwaukee 2.2 Full-time lecturer in Physics at UMass Dartmouth 2.3 Ph.D. Fellowships in Gravitational-Wave Science at the University of Birmingham 2.4 Postdoctoral positions in black-hole/neutron-star research at Amsterdam 2.5 Postdoctoral position at Beijing Normal University in Quantum Gravity and Quantum Cosmology 2.6 Postdoctoral Research Fellow in Theoretical Gravitational Physics at the University of Nottingham 2.7 Postdoctoral Position in Numerical Relativity at Jena 2.8 Postdoctoral Position in Computational and Theoretical Black Hole Astrophysics at Georgia Tech 2.9 PhD Position in Relativity at Jena 2.10 Postdoctoral positions in astrophysics at SISSA 2.11 International Relativistic Astrophysics Ph.D. Erasmus Mundus Joint Doctorate Program 2.12 Postdoctoral position in general relativity/quantum gravity at the University of New Brunswick 2.13 Postdoctoral position in black-hole physics at the University of Aveiro 3. News 3.1 New book on Gravitational-Wave Physics and Astronomy ================================================================= 1. Conferences ================================================================= 1.1 Thirteenth Marcel Grossmann Meeting (MG13) in Stockholm ----------------------------------------------------------- Announcement on Hyperspace@AEI: http://hyperspace.aei.mpg.de/2011/11/30/thirteenth-marcel-grossmann-meeting… Starting Sun, Jul 01, 2012 to Sat, Jul 07, 2012 Location: Stockholm, Sweden Additional Information: http://www.icra.it/mg/mg13 MG13 will take place at Stockholm University in Stockholm, Sweden on July 1-7, 2012. Preregistration will take place Sunday, July 1, and the meeting will officially open Monday morning, July 2, when the Marcel Grossmann prizes will be awarded. During the six day conference a wide variety of topics will be discussed in the morning plenary sessions beginning with mathematical topics on Monday, quantum aspects of gravity on Tuesday, precision tests of general relativity on Wednesday, relativistic astrophysics on Thursday, cosmology and astroparticle physics on Friday and the latest scientific news and the history of physics Saturday. There will be five plenary lectures each morning and up to twenty parallel sessions in the four weekday afternoons excluding Wednesday, which is left free for a trip and the evening conference banquet. The plenary lectures will be held in the Aula Magna lecture hall and the parallel sessions at the AlbaNova University Center, both easily reachable b y public transportation from the city center. The local organizing committee is chaired by Prof. Kjell Rosquist. Together with the chairs of the International Organizing Committee, Prof. Remo Ruffini, and the International Coordinating Committee, Prof. Robert Jantzen, the first actions will be to announce a first draft of the plenary and parallel session programs including some chairpersons who have already volunteered, with others to be added later. Major international sponsors, in addition to the Swedish universities, are IUPAP, ICRA and ICRANet, ICTP, TWAS, and all the universities and research centers participating in the joint Ph.D. program in relativistic Astrophysics: the IRAP PhD Erasmus Mundus program. Early registration at 350€ will be available online December 15th 2011 through June 15th 2012, after which the registration fee will be 400€. The student fee is 150€. New members have been added to the International Committees and the final version of the poster is now available for download at the meeting website. Since 1975, the Marcel Grossmann Meetings (on Recent Developments in Theoretical and Experimental General Relativity, Gravitation, and Relativistic Field Theories) have been organized in order to provide opportunities for discussing recent advances in gravitation, general relativity and relativistic field theories, emphasizing mathematical foundations, physical predictions and experimental tests. The objective of these meetings is to elicit exchange among scientists that may deepen our understanding of spacetime structures as well as to review the status of ongoing experiments aimed at testing Einstein's theory of gravitation either from the ground or from space. +++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++ 1.2 14th Canadian Conference on General Relativity and Relativistic Astrophysics -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Announcement on Hyperspace@AEI: http://hyperspace.aei.mpg.de/2011/11/29/14th-canadian-conference-on-general… Starting Mon, Jul 09, 2012 to Thu, Jul 12, 2012 Location: St. John's, Newfoundland, Canada Additional Information: http://www.ccgrra14.ca This is the first announcement for the the 14th Canadian Conference on General Relativity and Relativistic Astrophysics which will take place July 9-12, 2012 in St. John's, Newfoundland. CCGRRA14 is the latest in a biennial series of meetings that bring together Canadian and international relativists for scientific discussion and exchange. These meetings are broadly based, covering the wide range of research done in Canada including mathematical and numerical relativity, quantum gravity, string-theoretic approaches to gravity, relativistic astrophysics and cosmology. Invited lectures will be given by: Patrick Brady (U. of Wisconsin-Milwaukee), Robert Brandenberger (McGill U.), Sergio Dain (U. Nacional de Cordoba), Andrew Frey (U. of Winnipeg), Valeri Frolov (U. of Alberta), Veronika Hubeny (Durham U.), Hari Kunduri (Memorial U.), Robert Mann (U of Waterloo), Harald Pfeiffer (U. of Toronto), Eric Poisson (U. of Guelph) and Sanjeev Seahra (U. New Brunswick, Fredericton). In addition to these plenary lectures, time will be allotted in the afternoons for contributed talks from members of the national and international community. Post-docs and grad students are especially encouraged to contribute talks. The meeting will begin with an opening reception on Monday, July 9th. Talks will happen from Tuesday morning (the 10th) until Thursday evening (the 12th), including a public lecture on Tuesday night. On Wednesday afternoon there will be an organized whale-watching trip to the Witless Bay Ecological Reserve followed by a banquet on the beach. For more information please see the website http://www.ccgrra14.ca or contact ccgrra14[AT]gmail.com. Registration will open in January. Organizing Committee: Ivan Booth (ibooth[AT]mun.ca), Hari Kunduri (hkkunduri[AT]mun.ca), Ben Tippett (bktippett[AT]mun.ca). +++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++ 1.3 16th Paris Cosmology Colloquium "The New Standard Model of the Universe: Lambda Warm Dark Matter. Theory and Observations" ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------ Announcement on Hyperspace@AEI: http://hyperspace.aei.mpg.de/2011/11/21/ecole-internationale-dastrophysique… Starting Wed, Jul 25, 2012 to Fri, Jul 27, 2012 Location: Paris, France Additional Information: http://www.chalonge.obspm.fr/colloque2012.html Ecole Internationale d'Astrophysique Daniel Chalonge Chalonge School 16th Paris Cosmology Colloquium 2012 "The New Standard Model of the Universe: Lambda Warm Dark Matter. Theory and Observations" 1. SUMMARY Recently, Warm (keV scale) Dark Matter emerged impressively over CDM (Cold Dark Matter) as the leading Dark Matter candidate. Astronomical evidence that Cold Dark Matter (LambdaCDM) and its proposed tailored cures do not work at small scales is staggering. LambdaWDM solves naturally the problems of LambdaCDM and agrees remarkably well with the observations at small as well as large and cosmological scales. LambdaWDM numerical simulations naturally agree with observations at all scales, in contrast to LambdaCDM simulations which only agree at large scales. In the context of this new Dark Matter situation, which implies novelties in the astrophysical, cosmological and keV particle physics context, this 16th Paris Colloquium 2012 is devoted to the LambdaWDM Standard Model of the Universe. In summary, the aim of the meeting is to put together real data: cosmological, astrophysical, particle, nuclear physics data, and hard theory predictive approach connected to them in the framew ork of the Lambda WDM Standard Model of the Universe. 2. THIS COLLOQUIUM This Colloquium is within the astrofundamental physics spirit of the Chalonge School, focalised on recent observational and theoretical progress in the CMB, dark matter, dark energy, structure formation, and the theory of the early universe inflation with predictive power in the context of the LambdaWDM Standard Model of the Universe. The Colloquium addresses as well the theory and experimental search for the WDM particle physics candidates (keV sterile neutrinos). Astrophysical constraints including Lyman alpha bounds put the sterile neutrino mass m in the range 1< m < 13 keV. WDM predictions for EUCLID and PLANCK start to to be available. MARE and an adapted KATRIN experiment could detect a keV sterile neutrino. It will be a fantastic discovery to detect dark matter in a beta decay. A formidable WDM work to perform is ahead of us. 3. TOPICS Observational and theoretical progress on the nature of dark matter: keV scale warm dark matter. Cored density profiles in agreement with observations. Large and small scale structure formation in agreement with observations at large scales and small (galactic) scales. Warm (keV scale) dark matter from theory and observations. Warm (keV scale) dark matter N-body simulations in agreement with observations. Neutrinos in astrophysics and cosmology. The new serious dark matter candidate: Sterile neutrinos at the keV scale.Neutrinos mass bounds from cosmological data and from high precision beta decay experiments. Dark energy: cosmological constant: the quantum energy of the cosmological vacuum. The analysis of the CMB+LSS+SN data with the effective (Ginsburg-Landau) effective theory of inflation: New Inflation (double well inflaton potential) strongly favored by the CMB + LSS + SN data. The presence of the lower bound for the primordial gravitons (non vanishing tensor to scalar r atio r) with the present CMB+LSS+SN data. CMB news and polarization. Forecasts and Planck results, and Other Topics. FORMAT and EXHIBITION Sessions last for three days in the beautiful Parisian campus of Observatoire de Paris (built on orders from Colbert and to plans by Claude Perrault from 1667 to 1672). All sessions take place at the Salle Cassini (Cassini Hall) in the historic Perrault building ("Bâtiment Perrault") of Observatoire de Paris HQ, just upstairs "Salle du Conseil" (Council Room). All Coffee-Tea breaks take place at the "Salle du Conseil" under the portraits of Laplace, Le Verrier, Lalande, Arago, Delambre and Louis XIV. The Registration desk and the Secretariat of the Colloquium take place at the "Grande Galerie" (Great Gallery) just aside facing Salle du Conseil An exhibition at the "Grand Galerie" (Great Gallery) and "Salle Cassini" (Cassini Hall) will retrace the 21 years of activity of the Chalonge School and "the Golden Days" in "Astrofundamental Physics": The Construction of the Standard Model Of the Universe. The World High Altitude Observatories Network: World Cultural and Scientific Heritage. All Lectures are followed by a discussion. All participants are invited to take part in the discussions. The Meeting is open to all scientists interested in the subject. Information about this Colloquium, participation information and background information are displayed at the Chalonge School web site: http://www.chalonge.obspm.fr/colloque2012.html Information on the previous Paris Cosmology Colloquia and of the school events (lecturers, lists of participants, lecture pdf files and photos during the Colloquia) are available at http://www.chalonge.obspm.fr Early registration is strongly encouraged. With compliments and kind regards, Chalonge.Ecole[AT]obspm.fr http://chalonge.obspm.fr +++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++ 1.4 First Dutch Gravitational Wave Meeting in Amsterdam ------------------------------------------------------- Announcement on Hyperspace@AEI: http://hyperspace.aei.mpg.de/2011/11/17/first-dutch-gravitational-wave-meet… Starting Thu, Jan 19, 2012 to Thu, Jan 19, 2012 Location: Amsterdam, The Netherlands Additional Information: http://indico.astro.ru.nl//conferenceDisplay.py?confId=6 Gravitational wave research in the Netherlands is rapidly taking shape and is becoming increasingly diverse. In order to bring together astronomers and physicists interested in gravitational wave science and to inform each other of the current status of the various projects we organize the first Dutch National GW Meeting, to be held on Thursday January 19, 2012 at Nikhef in Amsterdam. The day will start with a keynote lecture by Prof. Bangalore Sathyaprakash from Cardiff University, after which there will be overview talks on Pulsar Timing Arrays, Advanced Virgo/LIGO, and the new ELISA mission, as well as contributed talks. The meeting is open to all interested researchers, also from outside the Netherlands. +++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++ 1.5 Chalonge School Meudon Workshop 2012 "Warm Dark Matter Galaxy Formation in Agreement with Observations" ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Announcement on Hyperspace@AEI: http://hyperspace.aei.mpg.de/2011/11/07/chalonge-school-meudon-workshop-201… Starting Wed, Jun 06, 2012 to Fri, Jun 08, 2012 Location: Meudon, France Additional Information: http://www.chalonge.obspm.fr/Cias_Meudon2012.html Ecole Internationale d'Astrophysique Daniel Chalonge 1. Summary: A Turning Point operated recently in the Dark Matter research: Warm Dark Matter (WDM) emerged impressively over Cold Dark Matter (CDM) as the leading Dark Matter candidate. WDM solves naturally the problems of CDM and agrees with the observations at small as well as large and cosmological scales. This workshop addresses WDM putting together astrophysical, cosmological and particle WDM, astronominal observations, theory and WDM numerical simulations which naturally reproduce the observations at all the scales. The Workshop addresses as well the experimental search for the WDM particle candidates (keV sterile neutrinos). 2. The New Dark Matter Situation Today: Warm Dark Matter (WDM) research is progressing fast, the subject is new and WDM essentially works, naturally reproducing the astronomical observations over all scales: small (galactic) and large (cosmological) scales (LambdaWDM). Astronomical evidence that Cold Dark Matter (LambdaCDM) and its proposed tailored cures do not work at small scales is staggering. Astrophysical constraints including Lyman alpha bounds put the sterile neutrino mass m in the range 1< m <13 keV. WDM predictions for EUCLID and PLANCK start to to be available. MARE and an adapted KATRIN experiment could detect a keV sterile neutrino. It will be a fantastic discovery to detect dark matter in a beta decay. A formidable WDM work to perform is ahead of us. 3. History, Context and the CDM crisis (abridged): This Workshop is the third of a new Chalonge series in Meudon dedicated to Dark Matter. The first Workshop of this series (June 2010) allowed to identify and understand the issues of the serious problems faced by Cold Dark Matter (CDM) to reproduce the galactic (and even cluster of galaxies) observations. The 2010 and 2011 Workshops served as well to verify and better understand the confusion in the CDM research, namely the increasing number of cyclic arguments, and ad-hoc mechanisms introduced in the CDM simulations over most of twenty years, in trying to deal with the CDM small scale crisis: Cusped profiles and overabundance of substructures are predicted by CDM. Too many satellites are predicted by CDM simulations while cored profiles and no such overabundant substructures are seen by astronomical observations. Read more on the www of this Workshop. 4. The Workshop addresses the last progresses made in Warm Dark Matter and the Universal and Non Universal properties of Galaxies. In the tradition of the Chalonge School, an effort of clarification and synthesis will be made by combining in a conceptual framework, theory, analytical, observational and numerical simulation results that reproduce observations. The subject will be approached in a threefold way: (I) Conceptual context and keV WDM particle candidates, sterle neutrinos (II) Astronomical observations linked to the galaxy structural properties, surveys, clusters and to structure formation at different (large and small (galactic) scales). (III) WDM Numerical simulations which reproduce observations at large and small (galactic) scales. TOPICS: Recent progress in solving the Boltzmann-Vlasov equation to obtain the observed properties of galaxies (and clusters of galaxies). N-body numerical simulations with Warm Dark Matter. The surface density. The phase-space density. Particle model independent analysis of astrophysical dark matter. The impact of the mass of the dark matter particle on the small scale structure formation. The radial profiles and the Dark Matter distribution. Cored DM observed profiles. The keV scale Dark Matter (Warm Dark Matter): Observational and theoretical progresses. Large and small scale structure formation in agreement with observations at large and small (galactic) scales. The new serious dark matter candidate: Sterile neutrinos at the keV scale. Sessions last for three full days in the beautiful green Meudon campus of Observatoire de Paris, where CIAS "Centre International d´Ateliers Scientifiques" is located. All sessions take place in the historic Château building, (built in 1706 by great architect Jules-Hardouin Mansart in orders by King Louis XIV for his son the Grand Dauphin). The Meeting is open to all scientists interested in the subject. The format of the Meeting is intended to allow easy and fruitful mutual contact and communication. Informations about the Workshop, participation information and background information are displayed at http://www.chalonge.obspm.fr/Cias_Meudon2012.html Early Registration is strongly encouraged. With compliments and kind regards, Chalonge.Ecole[AT]obspm.fr http://chalonge.obspm.fr/ +++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++ 1.6 2nd Iberian Gravitational-Wave Meeting 2012 in Barcelona ------------------------------------------------------------ Announcement on Hyperspace@AEI: http://hyperspace.aei.mpg.de/2011/11/05/2nd-iberian-gravitational-wave-meet… Starting Wed, Feb 15, 2012 to Fri, Feb 17, 2012 Location: Barcelona, Spain Pre-announcement of the Iberian Gravitational-Wave Meeting 2012 Dear Colleagues, it is a pleasure to announce that the 2nd Iberian Gravitational-Wave Meeting 2012 will be organized by the Gravitational Wave Astronomy - LISA Group of the Institut de Ciències de l'Espai (CSIC-IEEC) in Barcelona. Following the format of the first meeting we plan to organize a 3-day meeting starting on February 15th and ending on February 17th, 2012. The style of the meeting will be informal, with significant time for discussions, and there will be no registration fee. In future communications we will describe the details of the scientific program. The idea of the meeting is to bring together researchers with interest in the development of Gravitational Wave Astronomy, including researchers from related areas of Astrophysics, Cosmology, and Fundamental Physics. Please, feel free to send this announcement to scientists that may be interested in attending. In order to make concrete plans, please let us know if you are interested to attend (just reply to sopuerta[AT]ieec.uab.es). The organizing committee Ivan Lloro Alberto Lobo Miquel Nofrarias Carlos F. Sopuerta Ulrich Sperhake ================================================================= 2. Jobs ================================================================= 2.1 Postdoctoral positions at the Center for Gravitation, Cosmology and Astrophysics at UW-Milwaukee ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Announcement on Hyperspace@AEI: http://hyperspace.aei.mpg.de/2011/11/30/postdoctoral-positions-at-the-cente… Institution: Milwaukee, WI, USA Deadline: Sun, Jan 15, 2012 Additional Information: http://gravity.phys.uwm.edu The Center for Gravitation and Cosmology at the University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee (UWM) invites applications for several postdoctoral research positions. The initial appointments are for one year, with renewal for a second (and, in some cases, a third) year contingent on continued funding and satisfactory performance. The Center for Gravitation and Cosmology at UWM is one of the nation's largest and most active research groups in gravity, cosmology, astronomy, and astrophysics with ten faculty members, Luis Anchordoqui, Patrick Brady, Philip Chang, Jolien Creighton, Dawn Erb, John Friedman, David Kaplan, Leonard Parker, Xavier Siemens, and Alan Wiseman, senior scientist Scott Koranda, visiting professor Warren Anderson, and several postdoctoral fellows and graduate students. The group also maintains a close relationship with the Albert Einstein Institutes in Hannover and Golm through Bruce Allen and Maria Alessandra Papa who hold Adjunct appointments at UWM and visit regularly. More information about the people and the research can be found at http://gravity.phys.uwm.edu. The group performs research that spans most aspects of LIGO Scientific Collaboration (LSC) gravitational-wave data analysis activities, including searches for binary neutron star and black hole inspirals, continuous waves from isolated neutron stars, development and support of Einstein@Home, bursts, and stochastic background. The group is also active in several scientific computing collaborations. The group is recruiting postdoctoral research associates to work in any of these areas, and we have one position specifically for Einstein@Home science development. Applicants with a backgrounds in gravitational-wave physics, theoretical relativity, numerical relativity, cosmology, or high energy physics (theory and experiment) are welcome to apply. In addition, the CGC is recruiting for a postdoctoral position in the areas of theoretical and/or computational astrophysics. The successful applicant will work in conjunction with Prof. Philip Chang. The position is initially for two years with a possible third year (contingent on funding and performance). The successful applicant will have a choice of problems to work on including aspects of Type Ia progenitor evolution, instabilities in plasma astrophysics, and/or any other research topic of mutual interest. Prior experience in running large numerical simulations is preferred but not required. The postdoc will also be encouraged to pursue independent lines of research with other CGC postdocs and faculty. Applicants whose work overlaps any of the research interests of the group should send a C.V., publication list, and a brief statement of their research interests by email to cgcpd[AT]gravity.phys.uwm.edu, or by ordinary mail to: Ms. Stefanie Pinnow, CGC Postdoc Search Committee Department of Physics University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee PO Box 413 Milwaukee, WI 53201, USA (Phone 414-229-4960 Fax: 414-229-5589) Applicants should also arrange to have three letters of recommendation sent by e-mail or to this address. The deadline for applications will be January 15th, 2011 but early applications are encouraged. The University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee is an Equal Opportunity, Affirmative Action Employer. +++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++ 2.2 Full-time lecturer in Physics at UMass Dartmouth ---------------------------------------------------- Announcement on Hyperspace@AEI: http://hyperspace.aei.mpg.de/2011/11/30/full-time-lecturer-in-physics-at-um… Institution: North Dartmouth, MA, USA Deadline: Sun, Jan 01, 2012 Additional Information: http://www.umassd.edu/hr/employmentopportunities/facultyjobopportunities/in… The Department of Physics at the University of Massachusetts Dartmouth invites applications for a Full-Time Lecturer position beginning January or September 2012. This is a renewable, non-tenure-track position with responsibilities for undergraduate laboratory and classroom teaching. Applicants must: (1) hold an earned doctorate in Physics or allied field (or a masters degree with substantial teaching experience); (2) be proficient in course content and fluent in the English language; and (3) have a strong demonstrated commitment to teaching, especially at the undergraduate level. Preferred candidates will have (1) outstanding credentials that clearly demonstrate their ability and commitment to undergraduate teaching, including laboratory work; and (2) experience in physics education research and/or astronomical observation. Successful candidates must show that they will be able to effectively teach a wide selection of undergraduate courses. Applicants are invited to submit electronically a letter of application which includes a description of courses qualified to teach; detailed curriculum vitae; names, addresses, and telephone numbers of at least three professional references; and a one-page statement of teaching interests and philosophy to: PHY-FTL Search email coefacultysearch[AT]umassd.edu. Employment is contingent upon verification of background/credentials and work authorization. Review of applications will begin immediately and continue until the position is filled. The University of Massachusetts Dartmouth is an EEO/AA Employer +++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++ 2.3 Ph.D. Fellowships in Gravitational-Wave Science at the University of Birmingham ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Announcement on Hyperspace@AEI: http://hyperspace.aei.mpg.de/2011/11/29/ph-d-fellowships-in-gravitational-w… Institution: Birmingham, UK Deadline: Fri, Jan 06, 2012 Additional Information: http://www.sr.bham.ac.uk/gwgroup/jobs.php The Birmingham Gravitational Wave Group expects to fill several Ph.D. positions starting in Autumn 2012. We encourage applications to pursue projects in any of the research areas of the group (experiments, astrophysics and observations). Studentships are assigned on a competitive basis within the School of Physics and Astronomy and, where relevant, the University of Birmingham. In addition to studentships funded by research councils, this year additional funding opportunities are available for outstanding candidates through the following programs: (a) Ten Elite Researcher Scholarships, for students of any nationality; (b) Ten Birmingham Brazil Scholarships, for applicants that are Brazilian residents at the time of the application; (c) Partial scholarships available for students from China, which are meant to supplement awards from the China Scholarship Council. Students of any nationality are encouraged to apply. We are seeking Ph.D. students to work with Dr. Andreas Freise, Dr. Ilya Mandel, and Prof. Alberto Vecchio. The group currently consists of 17 people, with staff, post-docs and students from around the world. Further information about the group is available at http://www.sr.bham.ac.uk/gwgroup Applications should be submitted in electronic form to gwave-phd[AT]star.sr.bham.ac.uk and must include: - A cover letter briefly stating the research area(s) of interest. A concise description of the research areas is provided at http://www.sr.bham.ac.uk/gwgroup/research.php - A Curriculum vitae; - University transcripts (scanned versions are acceptable); - Applicants should also arrange for two reference letters to be sent to the above address. The deadline for application, including reference letters, is Friday 6th January 2012 at 2pm (GMT). We encourage non-UK residents to notify us at gwave-phd[AT]star.sr.bham.ac.uk as early as possible of their intent to apply. Further details are available at http://www.sr.bham.ac.uk/gwgroup/jobs.php +++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++ 2.4 Postdoctoral positions in black-hole/neutron-star research at Amsterdam --------------------------------------------------------------------------- Announcement on Hyperspace@AEI: http://hyperspace.aei.mpg.de/2011/11/23/postdoctoral-positions-in-black-hol… Institution: Amsterdam, The Netherlands Deadline: Thu, Dec 15, 2011 Additional Information: http://www.astro.uva.nl/jobs/postdoctoral-positions-in-black-hole-neutron-s… Three postdoctoral research positions are available with prof. M. van der Klis at the Astronomical Institute Anton Pannekoek (API) of the University of Amsterdam in connection with the programme "Signals from Strong-Field Gravity: Getting to the Physics" with funding by the Netherlands Organization for Scientific Research and the Netherlands Royal Academy of Arts and Sciences. Requirements include a PhD in (astro)physics, demonstrable talent for research and a clear vision of how to contribute to the programme. Projects should be observational/interpretative in nature and aim at aspects of black-hole and neutron-star astrophysics such as strong gravity and ultradense matter. They would include some of state-of-the-art X-ray observations, developing and trying out new approaches and methods for understanding the data, and creating new computer code. There is ample opportunity to participate in directing PhD and MSc student projects. You will join a rapidly growing lively international research group focusing on observations and theory of accreting compact objects, with faculty Michiel van der Klis, Rudy Wijnands, Anna Watts, Phil Uttley and ~12 postdocs and graduate students. There are close ties with other groups at API in relativistic jets, gamma-ray bursts, astroparticle physics, and with groups abroad. Appointments are typically for 3 years with mid-term evaluation and possibilities for obtaining personal grants depending on circumstances. Applications should comprise resume, research statement, publication list and (separately) two letters of reference. Positions are to be filled in 2012 / early 2013; applications will be considered continuously starting December 15, 2011 until all positions are filled. Salary dependent on experience according to Netherlands university pay scales. Comprehensive social benefits. Universal health care insurance typically 100 euro/month/person. Closing date: June 30th, 2012 Address to: M. van der Klis, Astronomical Institute Anton Pannekoek, University of Amsterdam, PO Box 94249, 1090 GE Amsterdam, Netherlands; m.b.m.vanderklis[AT]uva.nl +++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++ 2.5 Postdoctoral position at Beijing Normal University in Quantum Gravity and Quantum Cosmology ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Announcement on Hyperspace@AEI: http://hyperspace.aei.mpg.de/2011/11/22/postdoctoral-position-at-beijing-no… Institution: Beijing, China Deadline: Thu, Mar 01, 2012 Additional Information: http://physics.bnu.edu.cn/application/research/gravity/ The Center for Relativity and Gravitation at Beijing Normal Univerisity has one post-doctoral position opening from fall 2012 in the areas of quantum gravity and quantum cosmology. Successful candidate will work with Yongge Ma. The appointment will be for two years. The gravity group consists of Sijie Gao, Wenbiao Liu, Yongge Ma, Bin Zhou and Jianyang Zhu. In addition, the retired professors Canbin Liang and Zheng Zhao join the academic activities frequently, and professors Abhay Ashtekar, Jerzy Lewandowski, Carlo Rovelli and Thomas Thiemann hold visiting professorships at the Institute. The areas of research in the group concern loop quantum gravity, black hole physics, general relativity, de Sitter spacetime, higher dimensional gravity and cosmology. For further information on the group, see the webpage: http://physics.bnu.edu.cn/application/research/gravity/ Interested candidates should send a CV, a publication list and a statement of research proposal and arrange to have two recommendation letters (one from the PhD advisor of the applicant) sent directly to: Prof. Yongge Ma Department of Physics Beijing Normal Univeristy Beijing 100875 CHINA E-mail applications are also accepted. They should be sent to: mayg[AT]bnu.edu.cn, yonggema[AT]yahoo.com The deadline for receipt of all application material is March 1st, 2012. +++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++ 2.6 Postdoctoral Research Fellow in Theoretical Gravitational Physics at the University of Nottingham ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Announcement on Hyperspace@AEI: http://hyperspace.aei.mpg.de/2011/11/22/postdoctoral-research-fellow-in-the… Institution: Nottingham, UK Deadline: Wed, Dec 21, 2011 Additional Information: http://jobs.nottingham.ac.uk/vacancies.aspx?cat=160#j10685 Applications are invited for an ERC-funded post based in the School of Mathematical Sciences at the University of Nottingham. The successful candidate will work with the ERC-funded research group on “Diffeomorphism invariant gauge theories, asymptotic safety and geometry” in the School of Mathematics as well as with the Particle Theory Group in the School of Physics and Astronomy. The successful candidate's research will focus on topics related to gravitational physics, quantum gravity and unification of fundamental interactions. In particular, the successful applicant will be expected to contribute to the development of the gauge-theoretic description of General Relativity (and related modified gravity theories). This could include work on quantum renormalisation group flow calculations and/or on gravity/gauge theory unification within this approach. Candidates with research experience in modified gravity, the asymptotic safety approach to quantum gravity and/or unification of fundamental forces are encouraged to apply. Salary will be within the range £27,428 - £32,751 per annum, depending on qualifications and experience. This post will be offered on a fixed-term contract. The initial appointment will be for one year, with the starting date October 1, 2012, and will be renewable for up to three years contingent on satisfactory performance. Candidates must have a PhD in physics, mathematics or a related area at the time the appointment begins. Informal enquiries may be addressed to Dr. Kirill Krasnov, Email: kirill.krasnov[AT]nottingham.ac.uk Please note that applications sent directly to this Email address will not be accepted. For more details, as well as instructions on how to apply please access: http://jobs.nottingham.ac.uk/vacancies.aspx?cat=160#j10685 Closing date: 21 December 2011. +++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++ 2.7 Postdoctoral Position in Numerical Relativity at Jena --------------------------------------------------------- Announcement on Hyperspace@AEI: http://hyperspace.aei.mpg.de/2011/11/18/postdoctoral-position-in-numerical-… Institution: Jena, Germany Deadline: Tue, Jan 31, 2012 Additional Information: http://cse.mathe.uni-jena.de The scientific computing group at the University Jena expects a postdoctoral opening beginning in 2012. The position will be within the Collaborative Research Center SFB/Transregio 7 Gravitational Wave Astronomy, including the gravity group at Jena Marcus Ansorg, Bernd Brügmann, Reinhard Meinel, and Gerhard Schäfer. There is the opportunity to participate in a wide range of research activities offered by the SFB/Transregio, see http://wwwsfb.tpi.uni-jena.de. The successful candidate will work on numerical and computational methods for solving Einstein’s field equations of general relativity in a broader sense, which may include topics like numerical discretization schemes (e.g. discontinuous Galerkin method) or parallel computing (domain decomposition methods, GPU computing), see http://cse.mathe.uni-jena.de. Applicants should email a curriculum vitae including full list of publications and a brief description of research interests. Review of applications will begin immediately and will continue until the position is filled. Prof. Gerhard Zumbusch, Institut für Angewandte Mathematik, Universität Jena, D-07743 Jena, Germany gerhard.zumbusch[at]uni-jena.de +++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++ 2.8 Postdoctoral Position in Computational and Theoretical Black Hole Astrophysics at Georgia Tech -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Announcement on Hyperspace@AEI: http://hyperspace.aei.mpg.de/2011/11/17/postdoctoral-position-in-computatio… Institution: Atlanta, GA, USA Deadline: Tue, Jan 31, 2012 Additional Information: http://www.cra.gatech.edu/ Applications are invited for a postdoctoral position in the area of computational and theoretical black hole astrophysics including numerical relativity at the Georgia Tech Center for Relativistic Astrophysics (CRA). The successful candidate will work with Dr. Tamara Bogdanovic, who will join the CRA faculty in 2012, and have opportunity to collaborate with other members of the CRA. We are particularly interested in a candidate that will work on interaction of single and binary black holes with their environment, electromagnetic counterparts and black hole growth. Experience in running and analyzing parallel (magneto)hydrodynamical simulations is desired. The successful candidate will receive research and travel support as well as access to the local high-performance computing facilities and a new dedicated computer cluster. The appointment will initially be for two years with a possible extension to a third year, depending on funding availability and satisfactory progress. The expected starting date of the position is September 2012. Current research interests at the CRA include theoretical topics in black hole and accretion physics, galaxy formation and cosmology, numerical relativity, gravitational waves and particle astrophysics. Center faculty working on these areas include David Ballantyne, Tamara Bogdanovic, Pablo Laguna (director), Nepomuk Otte, Deirdre Shoemaker, Ignacio Taboada, and John Wise. For more information visit http://www.cra.gatech.edu. Applicants should email to cra[AT]physics.gatech.edu the following documents in PDF format: 1) cover letter with names of three references, 2) curriculum vitae including full list of publications, and 3) a brief description of research interests (maximum 3 pages). In addition, applicants should arrange to have three letters of reference emailed separately to cra[AT]physics.gatech.edu . Review of applications will begin on January 31, 2012 and will continue until the position is filled. Georgia Tech is committed to affirmative action, equal opportunity and the diversity of its workforce. Attention To: Dr. Tamara Bogdanovic Department of Astronomy University of Maryland College Park, MD 20742 Phone:1 301 405 6651 Submission Email: cra[AT]physics.gatech.edu +++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++ 2.9 PhD Position in Relativity at Jena -------------------------------------- Announcement on Hyperspace@AEI: http://hyperspace.aei.mpg.de/2011/11/15/phd-position-in-relativity-at-jena/ Institution: Jena, Germany Deadline: Wed, Feb 01, 2012 Additional Information: http://wwwsfb.tpi.uni-jena.de Applications are invited for a PhD position within the SFB/Transregio 7 Gravitational Wave Astronomy at the Friedrich-Schiller-University Jena. The successful candidate will work on analytical and numerical methods for solving Einstein’s field equations of general relativity. The gravity group at Jena includes Marcus Ansorg, Bernd Brügmann, Reinhard Meinel, and Gerhard Schäfer, and also involves applied mathematician Gerhard Zumbusch. There is the opportunity to participate in a wide range of research activities offered by the SFB/Transregio grant on “Gravitational Wave Astronomy”, see http://wwwsfb.tpi.uni-jena.de. As an equal opportunities employer, the Friedrich-Schiller-Universität Jena wishes to support women in the context of statutory requirements. For this reason suitably qualified women are specifically invited to apply. Equally qualified applicants with disabilities will be given preferential treatment. Please send your application with a curriculum vitae and a description of your research interests compiled in one single pdf document to Marcus.Ansorg[at]uni-jena.de. In addition, we request two letters of recommendation. Applications are invited to arrive before February 1, 2012, although later applications will be considered until the position is filled. For further questions please contact: Professor Marcus Ansorg Friedrich-Schiller-Universität Jena Theoretisch-Physikalisches Institut Max-Wien-Platz 1 07743 Jena, Germany Marcus.Ansorg[at]uni-jena.de +++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++ 2.10 Postdoctoral positions in astrophysics at SISSA ------------------------------------------------------- Announcement on Hyperspace@AEI: http://hyperspace.aei.mpg.de/2011/11/11/postdoctoral-positions-in-astrophys… Institution: Trieste, Italy Deadline: Sun, Jan 15, 2012 Additional Information: http://academicjobsonline.org/ajo/jobs/1269 The Astrophysics Sector (http://www.sissa.it/ap) of the International School for Advanced Studies of Trieste (SISSA, Italy) expects to have an opening for up to three research associate (postdoc) positions starting in Fall 2012. The positions are for two years and can be possibly extended for a third year. A further opening starting in Fall 2012 or earlier is available for a two year research associate working specifically in the field of large-scale structure effects on the CMB. SISSA is a multidisciplinary PhD school, unique in Italy, pursuing research in the areas of physics, mathematics and neuroscience and is located close to the main scientific institutions of the region (ICTP, Trieste University and the Trieste Observatory). The Astrophysics Sector currently consists of eleven staff members, nine postdocs and eighteen graduate students (http://www.sissa.it/ap/people.html) Our research interests include: analysis and interpretation of cosmic microwave background and sub-mm surveys (Planck and Herschel), large-scale structure and cluster physics, galaxies, dark matter, galactic and extragalactic black holes, stellar structure and evolution, high-energy astrophysics, relativistic astrophysics, early universe physics and gravitation theory. We welcome applications from all candidates whose research interests complement or enhance those of our group. The selected candidates are expected to take part in the scientific activity of the sector and to carry out their own independent research. There are no compulsory teaching duties. SISSA also offers good local computer facilities and access to regional supercomputing resources. All of our scientific activity is carried out in English (as is the administrative support) and we provide local assistance for all members: a housing office, Italian classes, a nursery for children of SISSA members and a gym. Applicants should register with academicjobsonline.org and then submit a cover letter, a curriculum vitae, a list of publications, a research statement giving a brief description of past research and future plans, and provide the names and email addresses of two referees who we will automatically contact. The online application form for these posts is at http://academicjobsonline.org/ajo/jobs/1269 For further information you can contact Lorena Bencina via email: bencina[AT]sissa.it Completed applications should be received no later than January 15, 2012. +++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++ 2.11 International Relativistic Astrophysics Ph.D. Erasmus Mundus Joint Doctorate Program ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Announcement on Hyperspace@AEI: http://hyperspace.aei.mpg.de/2011/11/11/international-relativistic-astrophy… Institution: IRAP PhD Institutions Deadline: Sun, Feb 19, 2012 Additional Information: http://www.irap-phd.org Following the successful scientific space missions by the European Space Agency (ESA) and the European Southern Observatory (ESO) in Chile, as well as the high energy particle activities at CERN in Genève, we have initiated a Ph.D. programme dedicated to create a pool of scientists in the field of relativistic astrophysics. After taking full advantage of the observational and experimental facilities mentioned above, the students of our programme are expected to lead the theoretical developments of one of the most active fields of research: relativistic astrophysics. This program provides expertise in the most advanced topics of mathematical and theoretical physics, and in relativistic field theories, in the context of astronomy, astrophysics and cosmology. It provides the ability to model the observational data received from the above laboratories. This activity is necessarily international as no single university can have a scientific expertise in such a broad range of fields. We announce two calls: one with a deadline on 19 February 2012, sponsored by Erasmus Mundus, and the other with a deadline on 30 September 2012. The Erasmus Mundus program has a very competitive salary as well as comprehensive benefits. The Institutions participating in the IRAP PhD are: the international organization ICRANet as coordinating institution and the University of Nice Sophia Antipolis as the host Institution; the Albert Einstein Institute, Potsdam; the Brazilian Center for Physics Research (CBPF) and ICRA Brasil; the Free University of Berlin; Indian Centre for Space Physics, Kolkata; Observatoire de la Cote D’Azur, Nice; Shanghai Astronomical Observatory, China; University of Ferrara, Italy; University of Rome, la Sapienza, Italy; University of Savoie, Annecy, France; University of Stockolm, Sweden, Tartu Observatory, Estonia. The Final Ph.D. degree will be jointly delivered by the Academic Institutions participating in the program. We encourage applications from the best candidates worldwide, independent of nationality, gender or background. The Courses: Each student will have to follow 180 hours of courses during the three years of the Ph.D. program. There is also a possibility to follow courses from other Physics, Mathematics, Astronomy and Astrophysics Ph.D. programs in each participating institution, after approval by the Faculty. Courses can be chosen from the following list: VERY HIGH ENERGY PHENOMENA IN ASTROPHYSICS - Felix AHARONIAN; COSMOLOGICAL SINGULARITY - Vladimir BELINSKI; RELATIVISTIC EFFECTS IN ASTROPHYSICS - Carlo Luciano BIANCO; OBSERVERS AND OBSERVABLES IN BLACK HOLE SPACETIMES - Donato BINI; ACCRETIONS ON BLACK HOLES - Sandip Kumar CHAKRABARTI; PARTICLE PHYSICS APPLIED TO ASTROPHYSICS - Pascal CHARDONNET; GENERAL RELATIVITY - Thibault DAMOUR; SUPERNOVAE AND GRBS - Massimo DELLA VALLE; LARGE SCALE STRUCTURE - Jaan EINASTO; TOPICS IN COSMOLOGY AND PARTICLE ASTROPHYSICS - Li Zhi FANG; X/GAMMA-RAY INSTRUMENTATION - Filippo FRONTERA; HIGH ENERGY ASTROPHYSICS: X-RAYS CLUSTERS - Riccardo GIACCONI; ON THE KERR SOLUTION - Roy KERR; RELATIVISTIC FIELD THEORY - Hagen KLEINERT; BOUNCING COSMOLOGY - Mario NOVELLO; BKL COSMOLOGY AND HIDDEN SYMMETRIES IN GRAVITY - Hermann NICOLAI; THE HIGH-ENERGY GAMMA-RAY UNIVERSE - Marco TAVANI; SPECTRAL TIMING FROM BLACK HOLE SOURCES - Lev TITARCHUK; SINGULARITIES AND GENERAL RELATIVITY - Kjell ROSQUIST; BLA CK HOLES AND FUNDAMENTAL PHYSICS - Remo RUFFINI; RELATIVISTIC KINETIC THEORY - Gregory VERESHCHAGIN; STRONG COUPLING QED AND ELECTRON-POSITRON PLASMA - She-Sheng XUE; THEORIES ON GAMMA-RAY BURSTS - Bing ZHANG; X-RAY ASTROPHYSICS - Shuangnan ZHANG The Faculty: Giovanni Amelino-Camelia (SAPIENZA Università di Roma) - Vladimir Belinski (SAPIENZA Università di Roma and ICRANet) - Carlo Luciano Bianco (SAPIENZA Università di Roma and ICRANet) - Donato Bini (CNR – Istit. per Applicaz. del Calcolo “M. Picone”) - Sandip Kumar Chakrabarti (Indian Centre For Space Physics, India) - Pascal Chardonnet (Erasmus Mundus Coordinator) - Université de Savoie; Christian Cherubini - Università “Campus Biomedico” di Roma; Pierre Coullet - Université de Nice - Sophie Antipolis; Thibault Damour - IHES, Bures-sur-Yvette; Jaan Einasto - Tartu Observatory; Simonetta Filippi - Univ.“Campus Biomedico” di Roma and ICRANet; Sergio Frasca - SAPIENZA Università di Roma; Filippo Frontera - Università di Ferrara; Yipeng Jing - Shanghai Astronomical Observatory; Hagen Kleinert - Freie Universitat Berlin; Gian Luca Lippi - Université de Nice Sophia-Antipolis; Francois Mignard - Observatoire de la Côte d’Azur; Hermann Nicolai - Max Planck Inst. for Gravitational Physics, Potsdam; Mario Novello - Brazilian Centre For Physics Research, Brazil; José Pacheco - Observatoire de la Côte d’Azur; Kjell Rosquist - Stockolm University; Remo Ruffini (Director) - SAPIENZA Università di Roma and ICRANet; FarrokhVakili - Observatoire de la Côte d’Azur; Gregory Vereshchagin - SAPIENZA Università di Roma and ICRANet; She Sheng Xue - SAPIENZA Università di Roma and ICRANet; Shuangnan Zhang - Institute of High Energy Physics – Chinese Academy of Science The Host Institution for the call of 2012-2015 is the Université de Nice-Sophia Antipolis; Grand Château 28 Avenue Valrose 21 - B.P. 2135 - 06103 NICE CEDEX 2 +++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++ 2.12 Postdoctoral position in general relativity/quantum gravity at the University of New Brunswick ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Announcement on Hyperspace@AEI: http://hyperspace.aei.mpg.de/2011/11/07/post-doctoral-position-in-general-r… Institution: Fredericton, NB, Canada The gravitation and cosmology group at the University of New Brunswick expects up to two postdoctoral openings beginning in Fall 2012. The group consists of three faculty (Jack Gegenberg, Viqar Husain and Sanjeev Seahra), 3-4 graduate students and 2 post-docs. Our present pdfs are Dawood Kothawala and Tomasz Pawloswki. Our research interests are in classical and quantum gravity and cosmology. To apply, please submit a cover letter, CV, and have 3 reference letters sent to one of our faculty (geg, sseahra or vhusain [AT] unb.ca) by November 30, 2011. To apply for an AARMS PDF (http://aarms.math.ca/pdf/rules.html) the deadline for us to receive an application is November 30, 2011. +++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++ 2.13 Postdoctoral position in black-hole physics at the University of Aveiro ---------------------------------------------------------------------------- Announcement on Hyperspace@AEI: http://hyperspace.aei.mpg.de/2011/11/04/postdoctoral-position-in-black-hole… Institution: Aveiro, Portugal Deadline: Sat, Dec 31, 2011 Additional Information: http://gravitation.web.ua.pt/ We invite applications for a postdoctoral position in the area of black hole physics (including exact solutions, perturbative aspects, gravitational radiation, numerical relativity, black holes in string theory, alternative theories of gravity and other related areas). The appointment is for two years, subject to funding renewal and satisfactory performance. A tentative date for the appointment is Mar 1st, 2012 (with possible variations to be agreed upon with the successful applicant). All candidates must hold a Ph.D. in Physics. The successful applicant will be integrated in the Gr@v group at the University of Aveiro. More information on the group can be found at http://gravitation.web.ua.pt/ The applicant is expected to contribute to the efforts of the group and to the training of students. Applicants should send a curriculum vitae, a list of publications, a statement of research interests and two letters of recommendation to the following e-mail address: herdeiro[AT]ua.pt Please use the subject “post-doctoral application”. Applications should be received by Dec 31st, 2011. Incomplete applications shall not be considered. Screening of applicants will begin on Jan 1, 2012 and will continue until the position is filled. For more information please contact Carlos Herdeiro (herdeiro[AT]ua.pt). This position is financed by national funds through FCT/MCTES (PIDDAC) e co-financed by the European Fund of Regional Development, through COMPETE – Programa Operacional Factores de Competitividade (POFC). The eracareers announcement can be found in http://www.eracareers.pt/opportunities/index.aspx?task=showAnuncioOportunit… ================================================================= 3. News ================================================================= 3.1 New book on Gravitational-Wave Physics and Astronomy -------------------------------------------------------- Announcement on Hyperspace@AEI: http://hyperspace.aei.mpg.de/2011/11/28/new-book-on-gravitational-waves/ Additional Information: http://www.wiley-vch.de/publish/en/books/bySubjectPH00/availableTitles/3-52… "Gravitational-Wave Physics and Astronomy: An Introduction to Theory, Experiment and Data Analysis." This is a graduate-level textbook. Authors: Jolien D. E. Creighton, Warren G. Anderson. Publisher: Wiley-VCH (Weinheim, Germany) ISBN: 978-3-527-40886-3

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[Hyperspace-list] Hyperspace Bulletin for November 2011
by hyperspace＠aei.mpg.de 02 Nov '11

02 Nov '11

################################################################# Table of Contents ################################################################# 1. Conferences 1.1 6th Australasian Conference on General Relativity and Gravitation 1.2 Relativity and Gravitation - 100 Years after Einstein in Prague (2nd announcement) 1.3 Near Field Cosmology as a Probe of Early Universe, Dark Matter and Gravity 2. Jobs 2.1 Two Research Associate positions in Gravitational Astronomy at Cardiff 2.2 Assistant/Associate/Full Professor at LSU 2.3 Sciama Research Fellowship in Theoretical Cosmology at ICG, Portsmouth 2.4 International Physics Course at Osaka University (master and Ph.D.) 2.5 Postdoctoral positions in Astrophysical Relativity at the AEI-Potsdam 2.6 Lectureship in Mathematics and Statistics at Sheffield 2.7 Lecturer/Senior Lecturer in Mathematics at Monash University 2.8 Postdoctoral Researcher/Senior Postdoctoral Researcher at LSU 2.9 Postdoctoral position in general relativity at Cornell University 2.10 Faculty Position at CITA 2.11 Postdoctoral Position in Theoretical Physics and Astrophysics at Mississippi 2.12 Several Postdoctoral positions at the Rochester Institute of Technology 2.13 Postdoctoral Position in Theoretical Physics at Indiana University 2.14 Postdoctoral Researchers in Theoretical Physics at Perimeter Institute 2.15 Postdoctoral position in Cosmology/Astroparticle Physics at Physics Dept. "G.Galilei" Padova and INFN Padova (Italy) 3. News 3.1 2011 GWIC Thesis Prize: Call for Nominations 3.2 Living Reviews in Relativity: "Entanglement Entropy of Black Holes" 3.3 New forthcoming relativity books by M. S. Berman 3.4 LIGO Open Data Survey 3.5 Highlights and Conclusions of the Workshop "Warm Dark Matter in Galaxies: Theoretical and Observational Progresses" 3.6 Giulio Rampa Thesis Prize for Outstanding Research in Mathematical or Numerical Relativity 3.7 New focus issue on string cosmology free to read in CQG ================================================================= 1. Conferences ================================================================= 1.1 6th Australasian Conference on General Relativity and Gravitation ---------------------------------------------------------------------- Announcement on Hyperspace@AEI: http://hyperspace.aei.mpg.de/2011/10/30/6th-australasian-conference-on-gene… Starting Wed, Feb 08, 2012 to Sat, Feb 11, 2012 Location: Queenstown, New Zealand Additional Information: http://www.maths.otago.ac.nz/acgrg6/ The Sixth Australasian Conference on General Relativity and Gravitation (ACGRG6) will be held in New Zealand's premier mountain resort: Queenstown in the South Island, from the 8th to the 11th of February 2012. The conference brings together researchers in general relativity (mathematical/theoretical/numerical), theoretical and observational cosmology, relativistic astrophysics and gravitational wave detection. It is hosted by the University of Otago (Dunedin) and supported by the Australasian Society for General Relativity and Gravitation (ASGRG). Plenary speakers include: Florian Beyer (Otago), Richard Easther (Auckland), Steve Maddox (Canterbury), Andrew Melatos (Melbourne), Todd Oliynyk (Monash), and Dan Shaddock (ANU). For registration and further details please visit: http://www.maths.otago.ac.nz/acgrg6/. The website will be updated with additional information as it becomes available. What: 6th Australasian Conference on General Relativity and Gravitation Where: Rydges Lakeside Resort, Queenstown, New Zealand When: 8-11 February 2012 +++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++ 1.2 Relativity and Gravitation - 100 Years after Einstein in Prague (2nd announcement) -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Announcement on Hyperspace@AEI: http://hyperspace.aei.mpg.de/2011/10/29/relativity-and-gravitation-100-year… Starting Mon, Jun 25, 2012 to Fri, Jun 29, 2012 Location: Prague, Czech Republic Additional Information: http://ae100prg.mff.cuni.cz/ The conference is organized at the occasion of the 100th anniversary of Albert Einstein's stay in Prague, with the aim of providing an overview of the development and progress achieved in general relativity and its applications since then. The main topics of the conference include: * Mathematical relativity * Numerical relativity * Relativistic astrophysics * Relativistic cosmology * Quantum gravity * Gravitation and experiment * Conceptual and historical issues The meeting is organized under the auspices of the Rector of Charles University. The lectures will take place in the historical complex of the University in the heart of Prague's Old Town. Scientific Program The schedule of the conference will include plenary lectures and up to three parallel sessions in the afternoon. Posters will be displayed for the duration of the conference. The scientific program will be based primarily on invited lectures, the list of which is now under preparation. Confirmed speakers include: M. Abramowicz (Goeteborgs Univ.), A. Ashtekar (Penn State Univ.), J. Barbour (Univ. of Oxford), B. Bruegmann (F. Schiller Univ.), T. Damour (IHES), K. Danzmann (Albert-Einstein Inst. and Leibniz Univ.), J. Friedman (Univ. of Wisconsin-Milwaukee), H. Friedrich (Albert Einstein Inst.), V. Frolov (Univ. of Alberta), G. Gibbons (Univ. of Cambridge), G. Gonzalez (Louisiana State Univ.), K. Kuchar (Univ. of Utah), J. Lewandowski (Univ. of Warsaw), G. Neugebauer (F. Schiller Univ.), H. Nicolai (Albert-Einstein Inst.) L. Rezzolla (Albert-Einstein Inst.), M. Sasaki (Kyoto Univ.), G. Schaefer (F. Schiller Univ.), B. Schutz (Albert Einstein Inst.), A. Starobinsky (Landau Inst.), R. Wald (Univ. of Chicago), and C. Will (Washington Univ.). Space will be reserved also for contributed oral and poster presentations. Please see below for abstract submission information. Registration Registration will open in December 2011. Details will be available soon on the conference website. Standard registration fee: 350 EUR before April 15, 2012 Late registration fee: 450 EUR after April 15, 2012 Limited financial support in the form of a reduced registration fee may be available for junior researchers: apply by January 31, 2012 through the conference website. In addition to conference participation the registration fee includes: abstract book and conference materials; coffee breaks; welcome cocktail on Sunday, June 24; classical music concert in the Gothic Aula Magna of Charles University on Tuesday, June 26; guided tour through Einstein's Prague followed by banquet on Thursday, June 28 (accompanying persons need a separate banquet ticket). Due to spacetime constraints, the number of participants is limited to around 150. It is thus possible that the registration may close already before April 15, 2012. An advance announcement will be made when the number of fully registered participants exceeds 120. Abstract Submission Participants are invited to submit abstracts for oral and poster presentations by April 15, 2012. Contributed presentations will be selected by the organizers. Please note that the number of oral contributions in particular is limited. The abstract submission page will be available on the conference website in December 2011. Accommodation Prague offers a broad range of hotels, hostels, and other lodging options. Participants are expected to arrange their accommodation individually. A list of recommended hotels and other suitable accommodation will be provided on the conference website. Important dates December 1, 2011: Registration opens January 31, 2012: Financial support application deadline April 15, 2012: Standard registration closes; Abstract submission deadline June 24, 2012: See you in Prague! Scientific Organizing Committee Marek Abramowicz, Lars Andersson, Abhay Ashtekar, Julian Barbour, Jiri Bicak, Roger Blandford, Bernd Bruegmann, Piotr Chrusciel, Thibault Damour, Karsten Danzmann, Fernando de Felice, George Ellis, John Friedman, Helmut Friedrich, Valeri Frolov, Gary Gibbons, Gary Horowitz, Joseph Katz, Karel Kuchar, Jerzy Lewandowski, Gernot Neugebauer, Hermann Nicolai, Igor Novikov, Martin Rees, Oscar Reula, Luciano Rezzolla, Misao Sasaki, Gerhard Schaefer, Bernd Schmidt, Alexei Starobinsky, Paul Tod, Robert Wald, Clifford Will. For more detailed information, please visit http://ae100prg.mff.cuni.cz/ . To receive notifications about updates by email, click on "Preliminary interest" and sign up on the website. Jiri Bicak (on behalf of SOC and LOC) +++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++ 1.3 Near Field Cosmology as a Probe of Early Universe, Dark Matter and Gravity ------------------------------------------------------------------------------ Announcement on Hyperspace@AEI: http://hyperspace.aei.mpg.de/2011/10/24/near-field-cosmology-as-a-probe-of-… Starting Tue, Nov 29, 2011 to Thu, Dec 01, 2011 Location: Annapolis, MD, USA Additional Information: http://jsi.astro.umd.edu/conferences/2011-jsi-workshop.html The Joint Space Science Institute -- consisting of astronomers, astrophysicists and physicists from the University of Maryland and NASA's Goddard Space Flight Center -- is planning a cross-cutting workshop on “Near Field Cosmology as a Probe of Early Universe, Dark Matter and Gravity”. We aim to bring together 80-100 scientists from around the world to discuss many aspects of observations, theory, and how they all fit together. The workshop will take place between: Nov 29th and Dec. 1st 2011. Online registration and abstract submission will open Sept 17th. More information can be found on the webpage of the workshop. ================================================================= 2. Jobs ================================================================= 2.1 Two Research Associate positions in Gravitational Astronomy at Cardiff -------------------------------------------------------------------------- Announcement on Hyperspace@AEI: http://hyperspace.aei.mpg.de/2011/10/31/2-research-associates-in-gravitatio… Institution: Cardiff, UK Deadline: Thu, Dec 01, 2011 Additional Information: http://www.cf.ac.uk/jobs/physx/research-associate-in-gravitational-astronom… Cardiff Gravitational Physics group (http://www.astro.cardiff.ac.uk/research/gravity/) is seeking applications from highly motivated and competitive candidates to fill two STFC-funded postdoctoral positions. Both positions involve research into detection and measurement of gravitational waves in data from Advanced LIGO, GEO-HF and Advanced Virgo detectors and using the results to address a range of questions in fundamental physics, cosmology and astrophysics. Candidates are expected to take part in the development of algorithms that help improve searches for gravitational-wave signals in detector data and extract astrophysical and cosmological information from detected events. Current members of the group include academics Stephen Fairhurst, Leonid Grishchuk (emeritus), Mark Hannam, B.S. Sathyaprakash, Bernard Schutz (part time), and Patrick Sutton, three postdoctoral fellows and eight PhD students. The Group cofounded the British-German GEO600 collaboration, is a member of the LIGO Scientific Collaboration, and is involved in the planning of the space-based LISA and the third generation Einstein Telescope (ET) Observatory. Group members play leading roles within the LIGO Scientific Collaboration, in particular in gravitational-wave searches for compact binary coalescences, supernovae, gamma-ray bursts, and other transient sources. The Group’s research interests also include modelling binary black hole orbits using analytical and numerical relativity and their gravitational wave emission, strong field tests of gravity, development of algorithms and software to search for gravitational waves and quantum processes in the early Universe – specifically cosmic microwave and gravitational wave backgrounds. The positions are available initially for a period of two years, extendible to up to four years depending on performance. The posts are available from 1 March 2012, but the precise starting date is negotiable. +++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++ 2.2 Assistant/Associate/Full Professor at LSU --------------------------------------------- Announcement on Hyperspace@AEI: http://hyperspace.aei.mpg.de/2011/10/31/assistantassociatefull-professor/ Institution: Baton Rouge, LA, USA Deadline: Thu, Dec 15, 2011 Additional Information: https://lsusystemcareers.lsu.edu/applicants/Central?quickFind=51804 The Department of Physics and Astronomy at Louisiana State University invites applications for a faculty position in physics starting in the fall of 2012. The faculty in the gravity theory group at LSU consists of Peter Diener, Robert O’Connell, Jorge Pullin, Parampreet Singh and Gabrielle Allen and Edward Seidel (both on leave at the National Science Foundation). There is also a quantum information technology group at LSU led by Jonathan Dowling, a theoretical astrophysics group led by Juhan Frank and Joel Tohline, and an experimental gravity group led by Thomas Corbitt, Joe Giaime, Gabriela González and Warren Johnson. The Department has strong research efforts in particle physics, including nuclear and neutrino physics, space physics, condensed matter physics, medical physics, and astronomy and astrophysics. Preference will be given to candidates working in loop quantum gravity, but exceptional candidates in other areas of theoretical gravity will also be considered. Salary and rank will be commensurate with qualifications and experience. An offer of employment is contingent on a satisfactory pre-employment background check. Application deadline is December 15th 2011 or until a candidate is selected. This is an abridged version of the ad. The full ad can be found at https://lsusystemcareers.lsu.edu/applicants/Central?quickFind=51804 LSU System is an Equal Opportunity/Equal Access Employer +++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++ 2.3 Sciama Research Fellowship in Theoretical Cosmology at ICG, Portsmouth -------------------------------------------------------------------------- Announcement on Hyperspace@AEI: http://hyperspace.aei.mpg.de/2011/10/31/sciama-research-fellowship-in-theor… Institution: Portsmouth, UK Deadline: Fri, Dec 30, 2011 Additional Information: http://www.icg.port.ac.uk/ The Institute of Cosmology and Gravitation (ICG) invites applications for a postdoctoral research fellowship in theoretical cosmology named in honour of the pioneering British cosmologist Dennis Sciama (1926-1999). We seek an outstanding postdoctoral scientist to work in collaboration with existing staff in the ICG. Applicants should have a record of high-quality research in theoretical cosmology and propose an original programme of research, complementary to existing research expertise in the ICG. A PhD and relevant research expertise is required. The post is for three years, starting on 1st October 2012. The ICG consists of 12 academic staff, 13 postdoctoral researchers and 18 PhD students, and is a member of the Sloan Digital Sky Survey (SDSS-III), the Dark Energy Survey, and the UK Low Frequency Array Consortium (LOFAR:UK). ICG researchers have access to the new 1000-core SCIAMA supercomputer at Portsmouth, as well as the UK National Cosmology Supercomputer Consortium (COSMOS). Many staff are also involved in many other on-going and planned astrophysical surveys. More information is available at http://www.icg.port.ac.uk/ Applications (Application Form, CV, 3-page research proposal, names of 3 referees) should be sent by email to jobs[AT]port.ac.uk and copied to icg-admin[AT]port.ac.uk. Applicants should also arrange for up to three letters of reference to be sent by email to icg-admin[AT]port.ac.uk, to arrive by the closing date, 30th December 2011. Late applications may be considered until the post has been filled. Informal enquiries about this post can be made to david.wands[AT]port.ac.uk To find out more about the University of Portsmouth and this role, visit www.port.ac.uk/vacancies and apply on-line. Alternatively telephone 023 9284 3421 for an application pack. +++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++ 2.4 International Physics Course at Osaka University (master and Ph.D.) ----------------------------------------------------------------------- Announcement on Hyperspace@AEI: http://hyperspace.aei.mpg.de/2011/10/31/international-physics-course-at-osa… Institution: Osaka, Japan Deadline: Sat, Dec 10, 2011 Additional Information: http://www.rcnp.osaka-u.ac.jp/~IPC/ The Department of Physics of Osaka University is calling for applications to its International Physics Course (IPC). It offers Master and Ph.D. courses on a wide range of research topics in Physics (see also the webpage below for more details). The most successful applicants will receive a scholarship. Education and research is conducted in English (but students are welcome to learn a little of Japanese language and culture). Applications for the admission to the academic year 2012/13 (starting from October 1, 2012) are open from November 1 to December 10, 2011. More information at: http://www.rcnp.osaka-u.ac.jp/~IPC/ +++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++ 2.5 Postdoctoral positions in Astrophysical Relativity at the AEI-Potsdam ------------------------------------------------------------------------- Announcement on Hyperspace@AEI: http://hyperspace.aei.mpg.de/2011/10/30/postdoctoral-positions-in-astrophys… Institution: Potsdam, Germany Deadline: Thu, Dec 15, 2011 Additional Information: http://numrel.aei.mpg.de The Astrophysical Relativity division at the Max Planck Institute for Gravitational Physics (Albert-Einstein Institute) in Potsdam, Germany, anticipates the filling of at least one postdoctoral position within the "numerical-relativity" group. The numerical-relativity group is primarily but not exclusively concerned with the numerical solution of the Einstein equations and with the modelling of compact objects, such as neutron stars and black holes. Its work is a multi-disciplinary effort, spanning the fields of relativistic astrophysics, hydrodynamics and magnetohydrodynamics, differential geometry, mathematics of nonlinear partial differential equations and high-performance computing. The group consists of postdoctoral fellows: Daniela Alic, Pau Amaro-Seoane, Eloisa Bentivegna, Riccardo Ciolfi, Abraham Harte, Ian Hinder, Seth Hopper, Jose Luis Jaramillo, Gian Mario Manca, Francesco Pannarale, Alberto Sesana, Kentaro Takami, of faculty Luciano Rezzolla, and of several graduate students. To learn more about the group, please visit: http://numrel.aei.mpg.de The Albert Einstein Institute also hosts a Divisions in Mathematical Relativity and Quantum Gravity and has an extremely active visitors program. It enjoys close proximity to the Universities of Potsdam and Berlin, the Astrophysics Institute of Potsdam, and has excellent in-house supercomputing facilities. To learn more about the Institute, please visit: http://www.aei.mpg.de The positions are for one year and renewable up to three depending on satisfactory progress. The appointments are expected to begin around Sept. 1, 2012, but an earlier date is also possible. The deadline for applications is Dec. 15, 2011. Applications can be made online via the web interface at https://lotus1.aei.mpg.de/job-form.nsf/registrationNR.xsp Applicants should upload a CV, a publication list, a research summary specifying which position they are interested in, and indicate the names of at least 3 referees. The Albert Einstein Institute is an equal-opportunity employer and hires on the basis of merit. Applications from individuals with disabilities, minorities, and women are encouraged. +++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++ 2.6 Lectureship in Mathematics and Statistics at Sheffield ----------------------------------------------------------- Announcement on Hyperspace@AEI: http://hyperspace.aei.mpg.de/2011/10/27/lectureship-in-mathematics-and-stat… Institution: Sheffield, UK Deadline: Thu, Nov 24, 2011 Additional Information: http://www.jobs.ac.uk/job/ADK937/lectureship-in-mathematics-and-statistics/ Applications in gravitational and mathematical physics are encouraged for the following position: The School of Mathematics and Statistics has a strong research ethos and includes several research groups with high international reputation. The School offers MMath and BSc undergraduate courses, runs a long-established MSc in Statistics and provides service teaching of mathematics to other parts of the University. Following significant investment by the Faculty of Science, including new Chairs in probability and in mathematical biology, the School of Mathematics and Statistics invites applications for two lectureships with a starting date of 1 September 2012 or as soon as possible thereafter. We are looking for candidates with a strong track record of high quality research in Algebra, Field Theory, Geometry, Mathematical Biology, Probability, Solar Physics or another area linking with existing strengths of the School. You will be expected to carry out and publish high-quality research in an area covered by the REF Mathematical Sciences Subpanel, to supervise postgraduate students and to teach at undergraduate and postgraduate level. You will have a PhD in a relevant area of mathematics or statistics, or be close to completion. You will also have an established record of high-quality research in your chosen field or be able to demonstrate strong research potential, as well as excellence in teaching. +++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++ 2.7 Lecturer/Senior Lecturer in Mathematics at Monash University ---------------------------------------------------------------- Announcement on Hyperspace@AEI: http://hyperspace.aei.mpg.de/2011/10/26/lecturersenior-lecturer-in-mathemat… Institution: Melbourne, Australia Deadline: Tue, Jan 31, 2012 Additional Information: http://jobs.monash.edu.au/jobDetails.asp?sJobIDs=498605 The School of Mathematical Sciences at Monash University (Melbourne, Australia) invites applications for a tenure-track academic position starting anytime in 2012. Targeted recruiting is for the Lecturer or Senior Lecturer rank (equivalent to the US assistant professor or associate professor), but applicants at higher ranks will be considered. A PhD in mathematics is required. Candidates should have strong potential or demonstrated capability for effective research and teaching in a branch of pure mathematics with priority given to analysis, geometry, number theory, algebra, group theory, or combinatorics. The School includes the areas of algebra and discrete mathematics; analysis and geometry; bioinformatics, computational mathematics; operations research; probability and statistics; astrophysics; and atmospheric science and geophysical fluid dynamics. For further information regarding the school and its programs, please visit the web site http://www.maths.monash.edu.au/ Together with a research statement, teaching statement, applicants should indicate their research specialties and interests in their cover letter. Names of three referees are to be provided, and the key selection criteria must be addressed. To apply, go to http://jobs.monash.edu.au/jobDetails.asp?sJobIDs=498605 +++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++ 2.8 Postdoctoral Researcher/Senior Postdoctoral Researcher at LSU ------------------------------------------------------------------ Announcement on Hyperspace@AEI: http://hyperspace.aei.mpg.de/2011/10/14/postdoctoral-researchersenior-postd… Institution: Baton Rouge, LA, USA Deadline: Thu, Dec 15, 2011 Additional Information: https://lsusystemcareers.lsu.edu/applicants/Central?quickFind=53733 The theoretical relativity group expects to have (contingent on funding) an opening for a postdoctoral researcher or senior postdoctoral researcher to start July 2012. This position conducts research in loop quantum gravity including either the canonical or spin foam approaches and/or loop quantum cosmology. The initial appointment will be for one year and is expected to be renewed for another one or two years subject to satisfactory progress and availability of funds. The core relativity group at LSU consists of Steve Brandt, Frank Loeffler, Peter Diener, Jorge Pullin, and Parampreet Singh. In addition, LSU hosts a strong experimental gravity group with activity in LIGO, whose Livingston site is 30 miles away from Baton Rouge. LSU is also host to the Center for Computation and Technology (CCT), a multidisciplinary research center which includes computational groups in several areas of science, engineering and the humanities. Several researchers in the relativity group have j oint appointments at CCT. THE LSU SYSTEM IS AN EQUAL OPPORTUNITY/EQUAL ACCESS EMPLOYER This is an abridged version of the ad. For the full version follow the URL. +++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++ 2.9 Postdoctoral position in general relativity at Cornell University --------------------------------------------------------------------- Announcement on Hyperspace@AEI: http://hyperspace.aei.mpg.de/2011/10/14/postdoctoral-position-in-general-re… Institution: Ithaca, NY, USA Deadline: Thu, Dec 01, 2011 Cornell University expects to have an opening for a postdoctoral associate in general relativity starting in September, 2012. The position is for one year, with subsequent renewals depending on performance and the availability of funds. The Cornell Relativity Group consists of faculty members Eanna Flanagan and Saul Teukolsky, senior research associate Larry Kidder, research associates Geoffrey Lovelace, Michael Boyle, and Robert Owen, and a number of graduate students. Research interests of the group include computational relativity, black holes, gravitational waves, the gravitational self-force, modified theories of gravity and cosmology. There will also be opportunities to interact with the Theoretical Astrophysics Group, including Rachel Bean, David Chernoff, Dong Lai, Richard Lovelace, and Ira Wasserman. Applicants should submit a resume with a list of publications and statement of research interests, and arrange for three letters of recommendation to be sent to: Sharon Falletta Space Sciences Building Cornell University Ithaca, NY 14853-6801 Applications can also be emailed to falletta[AT]astro.cornell.edu, with the subject line "Gravitational theory postdoc". Completed applications should be received no later than December 1, 2011. Only candidates who anticipate receiving their Ph.D. by September 2011 should apply. Cornell is an Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action Employer. +++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++ 2.10 Faculty Position at CITA ----------------------------- Announcement on Hyperspace@AEI: http://hyperspace.aei.mpg.de/2011/10/11/cita-faculty-position/ Institution: Toronto, Canada Deadline: Thu, Dec 01, 2011 Additional Information: http://www.cita.utoronto.ca/index.php/Working-CITA/CITA-Faculty-Position The Canadian Institute for Theoretical Astrophysics (CITA), a national centre for theoretical astrophysics hosted by the University of Toronto, invites applications for a tenure-stream faculty position, to commence July 1, 2012. The search is open to candidates at the Assistant or Associate Professor level. Applicants from any area of theoretical astrophysics, cosmology and early universe physics are encouraged to apply; we seek candidates with a PhD, exceptionally strong and internationally recognized research records, and outstanding promise of future research accomplishments. Additional selection criteria include demonstrated excellence in teaching, in particular working with research fellows, graduate and undergraduate students, and to assume a leadership role in administering CITA’s active postdoctoral and visitor programs. The successful candidate will demonstrate excellence in research and have a strong commitment to excellence in teaching. Salary will be commensurate with qualifications and experience. CITA is an institute within the Faculty of Arts and Science, University of Toronto. The present complement of research staff includes six faculty and over 25 research fellows. The unique research environment at CITA is enhanced by close ties to the Department of Astronomy and Astrophysics, the Dunlap Institute, the Department of Physics, and the Canadian Institute for Advanced Research Cosmology and Gravity Program. We encourage applicants to apply online by clicking here and search for Job #1100857. If you are unable to apply online, please submit your application and other materials via e-mail to: citadmin[AT]cita.utoronto.ca using the subject line "Faculty Search". Applicants should submit a curriculum vitae, a bibliography, a statement of research interests. Please arrange for three letters of recommendation to be mailed directly to: Prof. Norman Murray, Director CITA, University of Toronto 60 St. George Street, Toronto, Ontario Canada M5S 3H8 All materials should reach CITA by December 1, 2011. +++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++ 2.11 Postdoctoral Position in Theoretical Physics and Astrophysics at Mississippi --------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Announcement on Hyperspace@AEI: http://hyperspace.aei.mpg.de/2011/10/06/postdoctoral-position-in-theoretica… Institution: Oxford, MS, USA Deadline: Sat, Dec 31, 2011 Additional Information: http://www.phy.olemiss.edu/GR/?x=entry:entry111006-181836 The University of Mississippi invites applications for a postdoctoral position in the area of Theoretical Physics and Astrophysics. The applicant must have a Ph.D. in Physics or Astrophysics and a good track record in one or more of the following research areas: gravitational-wave source modeling, numerical relativity, post-Newtonian theory, alternative theories of gravity, perturbation theory of stars and black holes. The Gravitational and High-Energy Theory Group at the University of Mississippi is active in various areas of theoretical and experimental gravity, and is part of the LIGO collaboration. Members of the group include Emanuele Berti, Luca Bombelli, Marco Cavaglia, Alakabha Datta and Tibor Torma, adjunct professors Vitor Cardoso and Ulrich Sperhake, postdocs Jocelyn Read and Alexander Dietz, and several graduate students. The University has excellent computing facilities, which include the Mississippi Center for Supercomputing Research and a departmental linux computer farm. The successful applicant is expected to engage in a collaborative research program involving several institutions, including Caltech and Princeton in the USA, Lisbon, Barcelona, Rome and Aveiro in Europe, and Para' University in Brazil (among others). More information on the gravity group in Mississippi is available at the following URL: http://www.phy.olemiss.edu/GR/ A curriculum vitae (including a list of publications and a statement of research interests) should be sent to the following e-mail address: grpostdoc[AT]phy.olemiss.edu Please use the subject "Gravitational theory postdoc". Applicants must also arrange to have at least three recommendation letters to be sent to the same email address. The University requires all applicants to submit their application (including a CV and a statement of research interests) online at the following website: http://jobs.olemiss.edu Please click on "search postings" on the left, then from the drop-down menus select: "Job Title" -> "Postdoctoral Research Associate" "Department" -> "Physics and Astronomy" The present position is filed as number 11421258-100611. +++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++ 2.12 Several Postdoctoral positions at the Rochester Institute of Technology ---------------------------------------------------------------------------- Announcement on Hyperspace@AEI: http://hyperspace.aei.mpg.de/2011/10/06/several-postdoctoral-positions-in-t… Institution: Rochester, NY, USA Deadline: Sat, Dec 31, 2011 Additional Information: http://ccrg.rit.edu Several Postdoctoral positions at the Rochester institute of Technology The Center for Computational Relativity and Gravitation (CCRG) at the Rochester Institute of Technology (RIT) anticipates filling several postdoctoral positions in the coming year. We are looking for postdoctoral candidates interested in working on numerical relativity. Binary black hole simulations, relativistic magneto-hydrodynamics (GRMHD) simulations of coalescing astrophysical compact objects, such as black-hole and/or neutron star binaries, supermassive black hole mergers and their interactions with their surrounding accretion disks, and core-collapse supernovae. There are currently eleven senior researchers working in a broad range of areas of gravitational physics and astrophysics at the CCRG. Six faculty members work in numerical relativity and/or gravitational wave science: Manuela Campanelli, Joshua Faber, Carlos Lousto, Yosef Zlochower, John Whelan, and Hans-Peter Bischof (a visualization expert), as well as five postdoctoral fellows: Melissa Frei, Bruno Mundim, Scott Noble, Jason Nordhaus, and Hiroyuki Nakano, and several graduate students. The successful postdoctoral candidates will be will have the possibility to collaborate on a broad range of research topics in computational astrophysics and gravitational physics. Our group is involved in several large collaborations, including the LIGO Scientific Collaboration (LSC), The Einstein Toolkit Consortium, a petascale computing project with NCSA, the NINJA (Numerical Injection Analysis) project, and the NRAR (numerical relativity-analytical relativity) collaboration. Several group members also have an ongoing collaborative research project with Johns Hopkins University to study accretion disks around supermassive black holes and explore relativistic phenomena in active galactic nuclei such as jets in active galactic nuclei. The positions are for two years and renewable depending on satisfactory performance and the availability of funds. CCRG researchers have access to several computing cluster facilities at national computing centers as well as a dedicated 800-core cluster hosted in the Center. More information about the CCRG is available at http://ccrg.rit.edu/ And about Rochester in http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Rochester,_New_York Applications should consist of a cover letter, a brief statement of research interests, a curriculum vitae including publication list, and at least three letters of recommendation. All materials should be sent electronically as soon as possible to: CCRG-postdoc[AT]ccrgweb.rit.edu Enquiries can be addressed to: Manuela Campanelli, manuela[AT]astro.rit.edu Center for Computational Relativity and Gravitation, and School of Mathematical Sciences (SMS) Rochester Institute of Technology (RIT) 85 Lomb Memorial Drive Rochester, New York 14623 USA Review of completed applications will begin December 31st, 2011 and will continue until February 1st, 2012 or until all positions are filled. RIT is committed to equal employment opportunity and affirmative action. +++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++ 2.13 Postdoctoral Position in Theoretical Physics at Indiana University ----------------------------------------------------------------------- Announcement on Hyperspace@AEI: http://hyperspace.aei.mpg.de/2011/10/06/postdoctoral-position-in-theoretica… Institution: Bloomington, IN, USA Deadline: Tue, Nov 15, 2011 Applications are invited for the position of postdoctoral fellow in theoretical physics at Indiana University. The current faculty in our group are Micheal Berger, Radovan Dermisek, Steven Gottlieb, Alan Kostelecky, and Enrico Lunghi. The position is available from September 1, 2012 and is expected to last for two years, subject to satisfactory performance. A completed Ph.D. degree is required prior to assuming the position. Each application should include a curriculum vitae, a description of research interests and accomplishments, and a list of publications. Candidates should also have at least three letters of reference sent to: Theory Group - Postdoc Search, Physics Department, Indiana University, Bloomington, IN 47405, U.S.A. Email applications should be sent to oldhamt[AT]indiana.edu. Applications received before November 15, 2011 may receive preference. Indiana University is an Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action Employer. +++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++ 2.14 Postdoctoral Researchers in Theoretical Physics at Perimeter Institute --------------------------------------------------------------------------- Announcement on Hyperspace@AEI: http://hyperspace.aei.mpg.de/2011/10/04/2012-post-doctoral-researchers-in-t… Institution: Waterloo, ON, Canada Deadline: Tue, Nov 15, 2011 Additional Information: http://www.perimeterinstitute.ca Applications are now open for postdoctoral fellowships at Perimeter Institute (PI) to begin in Fall 2012. PI hosts the world’s largest group of independent postdoctoral fellows in foundational theoretical physics. At PI, Postdoctoral Fellows are encouraged to formulate and pursue their own chosen lines of research, across all fields of theoretical physics, within an exceptionally supportive environment. They enjoy ample opportunities to interact with senior scientists, host collaborators, organize workshops and conferences, and participate in the training of graduate students. In addition, a unique mentoring system gives early career scientists the feedback and support they need to become flourishing, independent researchers. PI’s previous postdoctoral fellows have had excellent success in obtaining faculty or permanent positions at leading universities and research institutes around the world. PI encourages applications from outstanding postdoctoral researchers in: condensed matter theory, cosmology, particle physics, quantum foundations, quantum gravity, quantum information, string theory and other areas of theoretical physics. Postdoctoral positions are normally held for a period of three years, although exceptional candidates may also be considered for senior postdoctoral positions with five-year terms. Located west of Toronto, in Waterloo, Canada, Perimeter Institute was founded in 1999 as an independent institute supporting research in foundational areas of theoretical physics. Over the past decade, PI has emerged as a leading centre in the areas of quantum information, quantum foundations, quantum gravity, string theory and cosmology. The Institute is now expanding its fields of focus to include particle physics, condensed matter, and complex systems, combining insights from the full spectrum of physics within its cutting-edge research programs. Postdoctoral Researchers will also have opportunities to visit scientists connected with experimental and observational centers such as the Large Hadron Collider; the Planck satellite; VISTA, VLT, the SKA and other observatories; SNOlab and other astroparticle facilities; and LIGO, LISA and other gravitational wave detectors. The Institute’s growing research staff currently comprises over 80 resident researchers, including 16 Faculty members and 15 Associate Faculty members, in addition to visiting Distinguished Research Chairs. The Institute hosts hundreds of visitors and conference participants throughout the academic year, in addition to over 25 PhD students, and 37 Masters level students participating in Perimeter Scholars International. PI strives to offer an optimal environment for scientific enquiry and discovery, where resident and visiting researchers of all backgrounds pursue diverse approaches to fundamental questions in an atmosphere of intense scientific interaction. Researchers enjoy a collaborative atmosphere and the amenities of our award-winning facility, with excellent support for them and their families. Frequent cultural and social events are held at the Institute for the entire PI community (see Event Horizons to get a flavour of PI’s cultural offerings). The deadline for applications is November 15, 2011. Please email pdfrecruitment[AT]perimeterinstitute.ca with any questions. +++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++ 2.15 Postdoctoral position in Cosmology/Astroparticle Physics at Physics Dept. "G.Galilei" Padova and INFN Padova (Italy) ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Announcement on Hyperspace@AEI: http://hyperspace.aei.mpg.de/2011/10/04/postdoctoral-position-in-cosmologya… Institution: Padova, Italy Additional Information: http://www.ac.infn.it/personale/borsedistudio/pdf/getfile.php?filename=1462… The INFN PD51 research group leading the Cosmology/Astroparticle program Inflation, Dark Matter and the Large-Scale Structure of the Universe announces one postdoctoral position in Cosmology and Astroparticle Physics, to begin in Fall 2012. The position will be a 1 + 1 year appointment and reserved for non-italian citizens. The post-doc research activity will be mainly related to primordial non-Gaussianity and Inflationary models. The following Institutes participating in the program may host the Fellowship: Padova INFN Section and University, Italy (main node) Ferrara INFN Section and University, Italy Bologna INFN Section and University, Italy Laboratori Nazionali del Gran Sasso and University of L’Aquila, Italy Roma Tor Vergata University, Italy Roma III University, Italy Torino University, Italy Trieste SISSA and University, Italy The staff team members are: Padova: Nicola Bartolo, Michele Liguori, Sabino Matarrese, Massimo Pietroni, Antonio Riotto. Also present in Padova are: Gianguido Dall'Agata, Ferruccio Feruglio, Antonio Masiero, Massimo Passera, Stefano Rigolin, Fabio Zwirner Ferrara: Denis Comelli, Paolo Natoli Bologna: Stefano Ettori, Fabio Finelli, Massimo Meneghetti, Lauro Moscardini Laboratori Nazionali del Gran Sasso and L’Aquila: Zourab Berejiani, Luigi Pilo, Francesco Villante Roma Tor Vergata: Amedeo Balbi, Francesco Fucito, Nicola Vittorio Roma III: Enzo Branchini Torino: Antonaldo Diaferio, Luisa Ostorero Trieste SISSA and University: Carlo Baccigalupi, Stefano Borgani, Stefano Cristiani, Samuel Leach, Paolo Tozzi, Matteo Viel The deadline is Thursday, October 20, 2011 (also for the upload of Reference Letters). The interested candidates should apply directly at the web page http://www.ac.infn.it/personale/theo_fellowships/priv/index2.php?inf=modulo selecting the PD51 n. 14620 job announcement. The application form must contain: - a statement of research interests - a curriculum vitae - a list of publications - 3 Reference letters For further detailed information: please download the file http://www.ac.infn.it/personale/borsedistudio/pdf/getfile.php?filename=1462… or contact Nicola Bartolo, bartolo[AT]pd.infn.it, Dipartimento di Fisica "Galileo Galilei", via Marzolo, 8 - I−35131 Padova, Italy ================================================================= 3. News ================================================================= 3.1 2011 GWIC Thesis Prize: Call for Nominations ------------------------------------------------ Announcement on Hyperspace@AEI: http://hyperspace.aei.mpg.de/2011/10/31/2011-gwic-thesis-prize-call-for-nom… Additional Information: https://gwic.ligo.org/thesisprize/ Nominations for the 2011 GWIC Thesis Prize are now open. The Gravitational Wave International Committee (GWIC) was formed to promote international collaboration and cooperation in the construction, operation and use of gravitational wave detection facilities world-wide. To this end, GWIC has established an annual prize for the outstanding Ph.D. thesis based on research in gravitational waves (http://gwic.ligo.org/thesisprize/) Members of the gravitational wave community are invited to nominate students who have performed notable research on any aspect of gravitational wave science. Theses will be judged on 1) originality and creativity of the research, 2) importance to the field of gravitational waves and gravitational wave detection, broadly interpreted, and 3) clarity of presentation. The recipient will receive a certificate of recognition and a prize of $1,000. Since 2010, GWIC has an arrangement with Springer Publishing. Subject to qualifying criteria, the prize-winning thesis will be nominated for Springer Theses, a new book series in which exceptional Ph.D. theses in the physical sciences are published in their entirety. The winner will receive an additional €500 from Springer upon publication. Eligibility: The award is made on a calendar year basis. Theses should have been accepted by their institutions between 1 January 2011 and 31 December 2011. It is expected that many of the nominations will come from the member projects of GWIC, but this is not a requirement. Nominated theses may be in any language. A committee selected from the gravitational wave community will evaluate the nominations and select the winner. The selection committee will make all determinations about eligibility. Nominations: Nominations should be submitted to the selection committee chair (Neil Cornish, cornish[AT]physics.montana.edu) by 15 January 2012. The nomination package consists of (i) the thesis, (ii) a letter of nomination, preferably from the thesis advisor, and (iii) an optional supporting letter from another scientist familiar with the work. The nomination and supporting letters should describe the importance of the research and how it supports GWIC’s goals to promote construction and exploitation of gravitational-wave detectors, foster development of new or enhanced gravitational-wave detectors, and support the development of gravitational-waves as an astronomical tool. The thesis and letters may be submitted in electronic form (preferred) or in hard-copy (five copies). +++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++ 3.2 Living Reviews in Relativity: "Entanglement Entropy of Black Holes" ----------------------------------------------------------------------- Announcement on Hyperspace@AEI: http://hyperspace.aei.mpg.de/2011/10/21/living-reviews-in-relativity-entang… Additional Information: http://www.livingreviews.org/lrr-2011-8 Living Reviews in Relativity has published a new review article on "Entanglement Entropy of Black Holes" by Sergey N. Solodukhin on October 21, 2011. Please find the abstract and further details below. ------------------ PUB.NO. lrr-2011-8 Solodukhin, Sergey N. "Entanglement Entropy of Black Holes" ACCEPTED: 2011-08-23 PUBLISHED: 2011-10-21 FULL ARTICLE AT: http://www.livingreviews.org/lrr-2011-8 ABSTRACT: The entanglement entropy is a fundamental quantity which characterizes the correlations between sub-systems in a larger quantum-mechanical system. For two sub-systems separated by a surface the entanglement entropy is proportional to the area of the surface and depends on the UV cutoff which regulates the short-distance correlations. The geometrical nature of the entanglement entropy calculation is particularly intriguing when applied to black holes when the entangling surface is the black hole horizon. I review a variety of aspects of this calculation: the useful mathematical tools such as the geometry of spaces with conical singularities and the heat kernel method, the UV divergences in the entropy and their renormalization, the logarithmic terms in the entanglement entropy in four and six dimensions and their relation to the conformal anomalies. The focus in the review is on the systematic use of the conical singularity method. The relations to other known approaches such as 't Hooft's brick wall model and the Euclidean path integral in the optical metric are discussed in detail. The puzzling behavior of the entanglement entropy due to fields which non-minimally couple to gravity is emphasized. The holographic description of the entanglement entropy of the black hole horizon is illustrated on the two- and four-dimensional examples. Finally, I examine the possibility to interpret the Bekenstein--Hawking entropy entirely as the entanglement entropy. UPCOMING ARTICLES AT: http://relativity.livingreviews.org/Articles/upcoming.html +++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++ 3.3 New forthcoming relativity books by M. S. Berman ---------------------------------------------------- Announcement on Hyperspace@AEI: http://hyperspace.aei.mpg.de/2011/10/19/new-forthcoming-relativity-books-by… Additional Information: https://www.novapublishers.com/catalog/product_info.php?products_id=30375 "General Relativity and the Pioneers Anomaly" This book is an introduction to the General Relativity Theory (GRT) and to the solution of the Pioneers Anomaly by means of relativistic cosmology, a study that is designed to be understood by undergraduate and graduate students alike in the fields of theoretical physics, applied mathematics and space engineering. In fact, this book is the first elementary account of GRT and cosmology to address the NASA problem, which consists of a specific deceleration suffered by two space-probes launched to outer space more than thirty years ago. The other two NASA anomalies, which are, the spin-down of the Pioneers, when they were not disturbed, and the "fly-by" of spacecraft in gravity assists, around the Earth, are explained by Berman, along with the linear deceleration, by the rotation of the Universe, and General Relativity theory. Pub. Date: 2011 4th quarter Author: Marcelo Samuel Berman (Instituto Albert Einstein/Latinamerica, Curitiba, Brazil) Publisher: Nova Science Publishers, New York ISBN: 978-1-62100-107-2 "Realization of Einstein's Machian Program" This book is a solution of the so-called Einstein's Machian Program, that left Einstein very angry and frustrated, for he was unable to reconcile Relativity Theories with Ernst Mach ideas, that by looking into the Cosmos as a whole, absolute motion could be found. About one hundred years ago, the discussion led to no conclusions among physicists, so that now Berman found that the existence of a Universal rotation, was compatible with General Relativity, and that this rotation is "absolute". Berman thus solved the problem. Author: Marcelo Samuel Berman (Instituto Albert Einstein/Latinamerica, Curitiba, Brazil). Pub. Date: 2012 1st Quarter publisher: Nova Science Publishers, New York ISBN: 978-1-61942-164-6 +++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++ 3.4 LIGO Open Data Survey ------------------------- Announcement on Hyperspace@AEI: http://hyperspace.aei.mpg.de/2011/10/06/ligo-open-data-survey/ Additional Information: https://docs.google.com/spreadsheet/viewform?formkey=dFJuS1d4UlNiLW9Wdm5OQT… Dear Astronomer, Gravitational wave astronomy is coming, thanks to the LIGO and Virgo advanced detectors that will be online at or after 2015. The LIGO Scientific Collaboration will release open data to the broader community, including rapid alerts for follow-up observation, and the detected strain corresponding to astrophysical detections. In order to make the open data program most useful to astronomers, LIGO is asking you to fill in a survey about what you see as most important for us to support. Please take a few minutes to fill in the survey on LIGO Open Data at the link below. You don't have to answer all the questions. We really appreciate your time and thoughts. Thank you Patrick Brady Roy Williams LIGO Scientific Collaboration +++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++ 3.5 Highlights and Conclusions of the Workshop "Warm Dark Matter in Galaxies: Theoretical and Observational Progresses" ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Announcement on Hyperspace@AEI: http://hyperspace.aei.mpg.de/2011/10/06/warm-dark-matter-in-galaxies-theore… Additional Information: http://www.chalonge.obspm.fr/Cias_Meudon2011.html Ecole Internationale d'Astrophysique Daniel Chalonge "Warm Dark Matter in Galaxies: Theoretical and Observational Progresses", Meudon Castle/CIAS of Observatoire de Paris, Meudon, France, 8, 9 and 10 JUNE 2011 HIGHLIGHTS AND CONCLUSIONS OF THE WORKSHOP We are pleased to inform you that the Highlights and Conclusions of the Chalonge Meudon Workshop 2011 on Warm Dark Matter in the Galaxies (48 pages, 24 figures including photos of the workshop) are available on the web site of this Workshop http://www.chalonge.obspm.fr/Cias_Meudon2011.html ABSTRACT (Abridged): Warm Dark Matter (WDM) research is progressing fast, the subject is new and WDM essentially works, naturally reproducing the astronomical observations over all scales: small (galactic) and large (cosmological) scales (LambdaWDM). Evidence that Cold Dark Matter (LambdaCDM) and its proposed tailored cures do not work at small scales is staggering. Fedor Bezrukov, Pier-Stefano Corasaniti, Hector J. de Vega, Stefano Ettori, Frederic Hessmann, Ayuki Kamada, Marco Lombardi, Alexander Merle, Christian Moni Bidin, Angelo Nucciotti on behalf of the MARE collaboration, Sinziana Paduroiu, Henri Plana, Norma Sanchez, Patrick Valageas, Shun Zhou present here their highlights of the Workshop. LambdaWDM simulations with keV particles remarkably reproduce the observations, small and large structures and velocity functions. Cored DM halos and WDM are clearly determined from theory and astronomical observations, they naturally produce the observed structures at all scales. keV sterile neutrinos are the leading candidates, they naturally appear extensions of the standard model of particle physics. Astrophysical constraints including Lyman alpha bounds put its mass in the range 1< m <13 keV. Predictions for EUCLID and PLANCK have been presented. MARE and an adapted KATRIN experiment could detect a keV sterile neutrino. It will be a fan tastic discovery to detect dark matter in a beta decay. A formidable WDM work to perform is ahead of us, these highlights point out some relevant research directions to put the effort. Photos of the Workshop are included. We thank all again, both lecturers and participants, for having contributed so much to this Workshop and look forward to seeing you again in a next Meeting of this series. With Compliments and kind regards Norma G Sanchez, Hector J de Vega http://chalonge.obspm.fr +++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++ 3.6 Giulio Rampa Thesis Prize for Outstanding Research in Mathematical or Numerical Relativity ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Announcement on Hyperspace@AEI: http://hyperspace.aei.mpg.de/2011/10/06/giulio-rampa-thesis-prize-for-outst… CALL FOR NOMINATIONS A graduate of the University of Pavia, Giulio Rampa, in his short life, had a profound impact on his fellow students and the faculty of the Department of Nuclear and Theoretical Physics of the University of Pavia. Following his Master in Physics, he soon entered Graduate School at the Max Planck Institute for Gravitational Physics, (Albert Einstein Institute), Potsdam where he became deeply interested in mathematical relativity. Known for his remarkable personality as well as his outstanding intellectual capability, Giulio Rampa's life is celebrated through this prize honouring an outstanding Ph.D. Thesis in mathematical or numerical general relativity. A net monetary prize of 2,000 EUR will be awarded every two years to a graduate student for outstanding research in mathematical or numerical general relativity. The prize has been established in 2011, and is endowed under the terms of a bequest from Nadia and Giorgio Rampa. Any student who graduated in a university or research centre in Europe is eligible to be considered for this prize. European citizenship is NOT required. The prize recipient's Ph.D. Thesis must be submitted for consideration by a nominator, preferably via e-mail, to: Secretariat of The Rampa Prize Committee, c/o Department of Nuclear and Theoretical Physics, Via Bassi 6, 27100 Pavia, Italy e-mail: rampa.prize[AT]pv.infn.it Self nominations will not be considered. It is the nominator's responsibility to ensure that his/her candidate submits the required documentation. In particular, all nominated applicants must submit, preferably by e-mail, the application form (available from the above address), a copy of the thesis, a letter of recommendation from their thesis advisor, one or more letters of endorsement substantiating the candidate contributions, thesis reader comments, a one-page abstract of the thesis, and a C.V. to the above address. The following criteria are reviewed when selecting the Giulio Rampa prize recipient: (i) Originality of Contribution, (ii) Breadth of Work, (iii) Publications, (iv) Quality of Nomination, (v) Quality of Endorsement. The recipients of the prize are to be selected by a standing joint committee of the Graduate School in Physics of The University of Pavia and of The Max Planck Institute for Gravitational Physics (Albert Einstein Institute), Potsdam. The decisions of the Committee are final and will be communicated by May the 31st, 2012. The 2012 prize will be awarded to a Ph. D. Thesis submitted for consideration no later than January 31, 2012, on behalf of students who graduated between January 2010-December 2011. +++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++ 3.7 New focus issue on string cosmology free to read in CQG ----------------------------------------------------------- Announcement on Hyperspace@AEI: http://hyperspace.aei.mpg.de/2011/10/04/new-focus-issue-on-string-cosmology… Additional Information: http://iopscience.iop.org/0264-9381/28/20 Dear Colleagues, We are delighted to announce that the new Classical and Quantum Gravity (CQG) focus issue on string cosmology is now free to read online. http://iopscience.iop.org/0264-9381/28/20 This issue includes 10 specially invited papers from some of the top researchers in the field. Guest Edited by Dr Vijay Balasubramanian and Professor Paulo Moniz, the focus issue appraises recent applications of string-theoretic and string-inspired ideas to the cosmos. The articles in this issue also survey a number of potentially promising directions for the future. With best wishes, Adam Day Publisher Classical and Quantum Gravity iopscience.org/cqg

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[Hyperspace-list] Hyperspace Bulletin for October 2011
by hyperspace＠aei.mpg.de 02 Oct '11

02 Oct '11

################################################################# Table of Contents ################################################################# 1. Conferences 1.1 Hot topics in Modern Cosmology – Spontaneous Workshop VI 1.2 21st Midwest Relativity Meeting (2nd Announcement) 2. Jobs 2.1 Postdoc position in theoretical physics at Bremen, Germany 2.2 Postdoc position in theoretical physics at Oldenburg, Germany 2.3 Caltech postdoctoral positions in theoretical aspects of gravitational-wave science 2.4 PhD positions in gravitational physics in Germany and Denmark 2.5 Associate Professor in Theoretical Physics in Norway 2.6 CITA Postdoctoral Fellows and National Fellows 2.7 Faculty position in theoretical astrophysics at the University of Illinois 2.8 Post-doc in Fundamental Gravitational Theory at Penn State 2.9 Postdoctoral position in GR, HEP, black-hole physics at Lisbon 2.10 Faculty position in Astrophysics at Purdue University 2.11 Tenure Track in Gravitational-wave Astronomy and Astrophysics at Cal State Fullerton 2.12 Post-doc position and PhD studentships in cosmology at University of Auckland 3. News 3.1 hyperspace@aei is two years old 3.2 Living Reviews in Relativity: "The Motion of Point Particles in Curved Spacetime" (update) ================================================================= 1. Conferences ================================================================= 1.1 Hot topics in Modern Cosmology – Spontaneous Workshop VI ------------------------------------------------------------ Announcement on Hyperspace@AEI: http://hyperspace.aei.mpg.de/2011/09/22/hot-topics-in-modern-cosmology-spon… Starting Mon, May 07, 2012 to Sat, May 12, 2012 Location: Cargèse, France Additional Information: http://www.cpt.univ-mrs.fr/~cosmo/SW_2012/SW6.html Spontaneous Workshop (SW) brings together specialists on recent insights in Particle Physics, Astrophysics and Cosmology. The aim is to stimulate debates on common topics in views of providing us with innovating ideas. The workshop’s organization is based on an optimal number of concise presentations and enough space for discussions on emergent problems in order to favour interactions among participants. The workshop will be organized on 7 - 12 May 2012, in Cargèse, France. SW6 topics includes: - Cosmological parameters – Anomalies in CMB - Baryon and Lepton number violation, CP violation - LHC and Dark Matter - Astroparticle Physics - Neutrino Cosmology - Baryogenesis and Leptogenesis - Cosmic antimatter - Inflation - Dark Energy – Modified Gravity - Cosmological Large Scale Structures, Magnetic Fields - Gravitational waves of Cosmological and Astrophysical origin +++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++ 1.2 21st Midwest Relativity Meeting (2nd Announcement) ------------------------------------------------------ Announcement on Hyperspace@AEI: http://hyperspace.aei.mpg.de/2011/09/12/21st-midwest-relativity-meeting-2/ Starting Fri, Nov 04, 2011 to Sat, Nov 05, 2011 Location: Urbana, IL, USA Additional Information: http://conferences.physics.illinois.edu/midwestrelativity/ This is the Second Announcement for the 21st Midwest Relativity Meeting that will be held Friday and Saturday, November 4 and 5, 2011 at the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign. The format of the meeting will follow previous regional meetings, where all participants may present a talk of approximately 10-15 minutes, depending on the total number of talks. We intend for the meeting to cover a broad range of topics in gravitation physics, including classical and quantum gravity, numerical relativity, relativistic astrophysics, cosmology, compact objects, gravitational waves and experimental gravity. As this is a regional meeting, many of the participants will be from the greater United States Midwest and Canada, but researchers and students from other areas are also welcome. The registration deadline is October 14, 2011 and the scientific program will become available shortly after. To register, and for more information, visit the conference website. ================================================================= 2. Jobs ================================================================= 2.1 Postdoc position in theoretical physics at Bremen, Germany -------------------------------------------------------------- Announcement on Hyperspace@AEI: http://hyperspace.aei.mpg.de/2011/09/30/postdoc-position-in-bremen-germany/ Institution: Bremen, Germany Deadline: Tue, Nov 15, 2011 Additional Information: http://www.models-of-gravity.org Open postdoc position The DFG Research Training Group "Models of Gravity" invites applications for a Postdoc position in Theoretical Physics, salary group (Entgeltgruppe) 13 TV-L, to be appointed on April 1st 2012. The position which is located at ZARM, University Bremen, is limited up to two years. The Research Training Group consists of gravity groups working at the Universities of Bremen, Oldenburg, Bielefeld, Hannover, Copenhagen, as well as at the Jacobs University Bremen. We intend to obtain a better understanding of Einstein's General Relativity and of generalised theories of gravity as given by, e.g., string theory. These investigations are also related to observations. More information can be found on the website www.models-of-gravity.org Responsibilities and Duties: The successful applicant will have the opportunity to continue her/his academic career in theoretical physics in the area of gravitational physics. She/he is expected to contribute to the teaching programme of the Research Training Group. Employment conditions: The applicant is required to have a PhD in Mathematics or Physics and should have strong expertise in General Relativity and analytic methods applied to nonlinear problems. The University Bremen aims, in particular, to promote women within the scope of the statutory provisions and, hence, emphatically invites qualified women to apply for this position. Severely disabled applicants are given preferential consideration in the event of equal qualification. Applicants with a migration background are highly welcome. For further information, please contact Prof. Dr. Claus Laemmerzahl. Application: The application with a curriculum vitae, certifications, a description of the scientific interest, a conception of the own career, and a list of publications should be sent as one single pdf document via e-mail to Prof. Dr. Claus Laemmerzahl ZARM University Bremen Phone: +49(0)421-218-8687 claus.laemmerzahl[AT]zarm.uni-bremen.de www.zarm.uni-bremen.de/ Also two letters of reference should be sent. Closing date is November 15, 2011. +++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++ 2.2 Postdoc position in theoretical physics at Oldenburg, Germany ----------------------------------------------------------------- Announcement on Hyperspace@AEI: http://hyperspace.aei.mpg.de/2011/09/30/postdoc-position-in-oldenburg-germa… Institution: Oldenburg Deadline: Tue, Nov 15, 2011 Additional Information: http://www.models-of-gravity.org Open postdoc position The DFG Research Training Group "Models of Gravity" invites applications for a Postdoc position in Theoretical Physics, salary group (Entgeltgruppe) 13 TV-L, to be appointed on April 1st 2012. The position which is located at the University Oldenburg is limited up to two years. The Research Training Group consists of gravity groups working at the Universities of Bremen, Oldenburg, Bielefeld, Hannover, Copenhagen, as well as at the Jacobs University Bremen. We intend to obtain a better understanding of Einstein's General Relativity and of generalised theories of gravity as given by, e.g., string theory. These investigations are also related to observations. More information can be found on the website www.models-of-gravity.org Responsibilities and Duties: The successful applicant will have the opportunity to continue her/his academic career in theoretical physics in the area of gravitational physics. She/he is expected to contribute to the teaching programme of the Research Training Group. Employment conditions: The applicant is required to have a PhD in Mathematics or Physics and should have strong expertise in General Relativity and numerical solutions of the Einstein field equations. The University Oldenburg aims, in particular, to promote women within the scope of the statutory provisions and, hence, emphatically invites qualified women to apply for this position. Severely disabled applicants are given preferential consideration in the event of equal qualification. Applicants with a migration background are highly welcome. For further information, please contact Prof. Dr. Jutta Kunz. Application: The application with a curriculum vitae, certifications, a description of the scientific interest, a conception of the own career, and a list of publications should be sent as one single pdf document via e-mail to Prof. Dr. Jutta Kunz Department of Physics Carl von Ossietzky-University Oldenburg Phone: 0441-798-3184 jutta.kunz[AT]uni-oldenburg.de http://www.physik.uni-oldenburg.de/ Also two letters of reference should be sent. Closing date is November 15, 2011. +++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++ 2.3 Caltech postdoctoral positions in theoretical aspects of gravitational-wave science --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Announcement on Hyperspace@AEI: http://hyperspace.aei.mpg.de/2011/09/29/caltech-postdoctoral-positions-in-t… Institution: Pasadena, CA, USA Deadline: Thu, Dec 01, 2011 Additional Information: http://www.tapir.caltech.edu CALTECH POSTDOCTORAL AND SENIOR POSTDOCTORAL POSITIONS IN THEORETICAL ASPECTS OF GRAVITATIONAL-WAVE SCIENCE, INCLUDING NUMERICAL RELATIVITY AND RELATIVISTIC ASTROPHYSICS The California Institute of Technology invites applications for postdoctoral and senior postdoctoral appointments in theoretical aspects of gravitational-wave science. These positions are for researchers in any of the three focus areas of our group: 1) NUMERICAL RELATIVITY and COMPUTATIONAL RELATIVISTIC ASTROPHYSICS [Christian Ott, Mark Scheel, Bela Szilagyi] including a strong collaboration with the Cornell, CITA, and WSU groups. Systems and phenomena studied include compact binaries (BH/BH, NS/BH, NS/NS) as well as stellar collapse and supernova explosions. 2) GRAVITATIONAL-WAVE SOURCE ANALYSIS, DATA ANALYSIS, AND ASTROPHYSICS [Yanbei Chen, Christian Ott, Sterl Phinney, Kip Thorne, Curt Cutler, Michele Vallisneri]. This effort has close ties to the Caltech theoretical astrophysics and observational astronomy programs, to the Caltech numerical relativity group, to the LIGO Laboratory, the LIGO Scientific Collaboration and to the JPL gravitational-wave group. 3) GRAVITATIONAL-WAVE DETECTORS [Yanbei Chen, Kip Thorne] This involves the application of quantum measurement and quantum control theory to advanced gravitational-wave detectors, as well as the formulation of experimental tests of quantum mechanics that can be performed on these detectors. This research is carried out in collaboration or interaction with members of the LIGO Lab, and other Caltech research groups, including those led by H. Jeff Kimble and Michael Roukes, and the Caltech Institute for Quantum Information, http://www.iqi.caltech.edu, and the Moscow University research group of Vladimir Braginsky, Farid Khalili, Sergei Vyatchanin, Stefan Danilishin and Sergey Strigin. These three research programs are embedded in Caltech's TAPIR group (Theoretical Astrophysics Including Relativity), http://www.tapir.caltech.edu and are associated with the Caltech/JPL Association for Gravitational WaveResearch, http://www.its.caltech.edu/~cajagwr/. By a single application one can be considered for Caltech's Prize Postdoctoral Fellowships in Theoretical Physics and Astrophysics, including Relativity [see http://www.pma.caltech.edu/GSR/fellowtheory.html] and for regular postdoctoral and senior postdoctoral positions. The application deadline is December 1, though late applications will continue to be considered until all positions are filled. PLEASE SUBMIT APPLICATIONS VIA THE WEB at the following website, until that website closes: http://www.beatricia.caltech.edu/astro-theoretical/apply.html Under Research Interests, please choose the button "Gravitational Physics" and/or "Astrophysics" Later applications should be sent to JoAnn Boyd, joann[AT]tapir.caltech.edu. Application materials should include curriculum vitae with email address and with citizenship indicated, bibliography of publications (with refereed articles identified), web locations of manuscripts not yet published, and a description of the desired research directions. Please ensure that at least three letters of recommendation are provided by the writers via the web at http://www.eas.caltech.edu/search/theo-astro/references before the website closes, or to joann[AT]tapir.caltech.edu afterwards. Caltech is an Affirmative Action/Equal Opportunity Employer. Women, Minorities, Veterans, and Disabled Persons are encouraged to apply. +++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++ 2.4 PhD positions in gravitational physics in Germany and Denmark ----------------------------------------------------------------- Announcement on Hyperspace@AEI: http://hyperspace.aei.mpg.de/2011/09/29/phd-positions-in-gravitational-phys… Institution: Bremen, Oldenburg, Bielefeld - Germany Deadline: Tue, Nov 15, 2011 Additional Information: http://www.models-of-gravity.org The DFG Research Training Group "Models of Gravity" invites applications for 11 positions Research Assistant, Salary Group (Entgeltgruppe) 13 TV-L – 66%, to be appointed on April 1st 2012. The positions are limited up to three years. The Research Training Group consists of gravity groups working at the Universities of Bremen, Oldenburg, Bielefeld, Hannover, Copenhagen, as well as at the Jacobs University Bremen. We intend to obtain a better understanding of Einstein's General Relativity and of generalised theories of gravity as given by, e.g., string theory. These investigations are also related to observations. More information can be found on the website http://www.models-of-gravity.org Responsibilities and Duties: The successful applicants will have the opportunity to work towards a doctoral degree in Gravitational Physics. They are expected to contribute to the teaching programme of the Research Training Group. Employment conditions: To qualify for the position, applicants must hold a Master's degree or a Diploma in Physics, Mathematics or any other relevant discipline, with an above-average success in the present courses of studies. For qualified candidates with a Bachelor's degree also a fast-track program is applicable. We expect high dedication and teamwork. All participating universities aim, in particular, to promote women within the scope of the statutory provisions and, hence, emphatically invite qualified women to apply for these positions. Severely disabled applicants are given preferential consideration in the event of equal qualification. Applicants with a migration background are highly welcome. For further information, please contact Prof. Dr. Claus Laemmerzahl or Prof. Dr. Jutta Kunz. Application: The application with a curriculum vitae, certifications, a description of the scientific interest, a conception of the own career, and, if applicable, a list of publications should be sent as one single pdf document via e-mail to Prof. Dr. Claus Laemmerzahl ZARM University Bremen Phone: 0421-218-8687 claus.laemmerzahl[AT]zarm.uni-bremen.de http://www.zarm.uni-bremen.de or Prof. Dr. Jutta Kunz Institute for Physics Carl von Ossietzky-University Oldenburg Phone: 0441-798-3184 jutta.kunz[AT]uni-oldenburg.de http://www.physik.uni-oldenburg.de/ Also two letters of reference should be sent. Closing date is November 15, 2011. +++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++ 2.5 Associate Professor in Theoretical Physics in Norway -------------------------------------------------------- Announcement on Hyperspace@AEI: http://hyperspace.aei.mpg.de/2011/09/28/associate-professor-in-theoretical-… Institution: Stavanger, Norway Deadline: Sun, Oct 23, 2011 Additional Information: http://www.uis.no/about_us/vacant_positions/article57556-88.html The University of Stavanger invites applications for a position as Associate Professor of Physics at the Faculty of Science and Technology in the Department of Mathematics and Natural Sciences, beginning 01.08.2012. The position is in Theoretical Physics. The responsibilities comprise research, supervision, teaching, student assessment related to the field above and administration. The education required for the position is PhD in Theoretical Physics, or corresponding competence. More information is available on the website. +++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++ 2.6 CITA Postdoctoral Fellows and National Fellows -------------------------------------------------- Announcement on Hyperspace@AEI: http://hyperspace.aei.mpg.de/2011/09/26/cita-postdoctoral-fellows-national-… Institution: Toronto; various universities in Canada Deadline: Tue, Nov 15, 2011 Additional Information: http://www.cita.utoronto.ca POSTDOCTORAL FELLOWSHIPS Postdoctoral research fellowships beginning September 1, 2012 are being offered at the Canadian Institute for Theoretical Astrophysics (CITA). A Ph.D. in any field of theoretical astrophysics is required. Fellows are expected to carry out original research in theoretical astrophysics under the general supervision of the permanent faculty whose interests include: Cosmology, interstellar matter, star and planet formation, solar physics, high energy astrophysics, numerical relativity and gravitational waves. We only accept electronic submissions. Visit the CITA website at: http://www.cita.utoronto.ca for application instructions. Applicants will be asked to submit a curriculum vitae, statement of research interests and arrange for three letters of recommendation. The deadline for applications and all letters of recommendation is November 15, 2011. The University of Toronto is strongly committed to diversity within its community and especially welcomes applications from visible minority group members, Aboriginal persons, persons with disabilities, members of sexual minority groups, and others who may contribute to the further diversification of ideas. RESEARCH ASSOCIATE POSITIONS CITA is a national centre for theoretical astrophysics located at the University of Toronto. CITA expects to offer one or more Research Associate positions of three to five years duration. The start date will be September 1, 2012. Applicants should have an excellent research record in astrophysics and postdoctoral experience. Funds will be available for travel and other research expenses. The primary duty is to carry out original research in theoretical astrophysics, but Research Associates are also expected to work with postdoctoral fellows and to assist with the administration of the Institute. All applicants for these positions are also considered automatically for postdoctoral fellowships. We only accept electronic submissions. Visit the CITA website at: http://www.cita.utoronto.ca for application instructions. Applicants will be asked to submit a curriculum vitae, statement of research interests and arrange for three letters of recommendation. The deadline for applications and all letters of recommendation is November 15, 2011. The University of Toronto is strongly committed to diversity within its community and especially welcomes applications from visible minority group members, Aboriginal persons, persons with disabilities, members of sexual minority groups, and others who may contribute to the further diversification of ideas. This is an international search. All qualified candidates are encouraged to apply; however Canadians and permanent residents will be given priority. NATIONAL POSTDOCTORAL FELLOWSHIPS CITA is a national centre for theoretical astrophysics located at the University of Toronto. As part of its mandate to promote research throughout Canada, the Institute provides partial support for postdoctoral fellows working in theoretical astrophysics or closely related fields at Canadian universities other than the University of Toronto, through its National Fellows Program. The responsibility for identifying and nominating potential CITA National Fellows who will work at a given university lies with the faculty at that university. Only faculty at Canadian universities may submit nominations. The deadline for these nominations November 15, 2011 for fellowships to start in September 2012. Please check with the nominating institution for their internal deadlines. If you are interested in applying for National Fellowships at other universities in Canada, please contact any of the following faculty by email or check department websites for further research and application details: Professor Alan Coley, Dalhouisie University (aac[AT]mathstat.dal.ca) Professor Hough Couchman, McMaster University (couchman[AT]mcmaster.ca) Professor Andrei Frolov, Simon Fraser University (http://www.sfu.ca/physics/cosmology/) Professor Falk Herwig, University of Victoria (fherwig[AT]uvic.ca) Professor Natasha Ivanova, University of Alberta (http://www.ualberta.ca/~ivanova1/) Professor Luis Lehner, University of Guelph (llehner[AT]uoguelph.ca) Professor Eric Poisson, University of Guelph (epoisson[AT]uoguelph.ca) Professor Douglas Scott, University of British Columbia (http://www.astro.ubc.ca/citafellow.html) +++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++ 2.7 Faculty position in theoretical astrophysics at the University of Illinois ------------------------------------------------------------------------------ Announcement on Hyperspace@AEI: http://hyperspace.aei.mpg.de/2011/09/22/faculty-position-in-theoretical-ast… Institution: Urbana, IL, USA Deadline: Thu, Dec 01, 2011 Additional Information: http://jobs.illinois.edu The Department of Physics invites applicants for a full-time tenured and tenure-track position in theoretical astrophysics, with an emphasis on gravitation physics or cosmology. The start date is as early as August 16, 2012. A Ph.D., or equivalent, is required along with the ability to teach effectively at both undergraduate and graduate levels and to conduct a vigorous and significant research program in contemporary astrophysics. The successful applicant will be joining a department with active programs in both observational and theoretical astronomy and astrophysics. Salary will be competitive and rank will be commensurate with qualifications. For full consideration, applications should be received by December 1, 2011, but applications will be accepted until the position is filled. To apply for this position, please create a candidate profile at http://jobs.illinois.edu and upload a curriculum vitae, a list of publications, a brief description of research and teaching interests and plans, and the names of three people who can provide letters of recommendation by December 1, 2011. Please contact Margie Gamel at 217-333-3762 or mgamel[AT]illinois.edu for further inquiries or questions. Illinois is an Affirmative Action/Equal Opportunity Employer and welcomes individuals with diverse backgrounds, experiences, and ideas who embrace and value diversity and inclusivity. (http://www.inclusiveillinois.illinois.edu) +++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++ 2.8 Post-doc in Fundamental Gravitational Theory at Penn State -------------------------------------------------------------- Announcement on Hyperspace@AEI: http://hyperspace.aei.mpg.de/2011/09/20/post-doctoral-scholar/ Institution: University Park, PA, USA Deadline: Sun, Dec 25, 2011 Additional Information: http://igc.psu.edu/index.php The Institute for Gravitation and the Cosmos expects openings for post-doctoral positions starting fall 2012 in the areas of cosmology, general relativity and quantum gravity. The initial appointment will be for one year and is expected to be renewed for another year subject to satisfactory progress and availability of funds. In exceptional cases it has been renewed also for a third year. The gravitational theory group faculty consists of Abhay Ashtekar, Martin Bojowald, Murat Gunaydin, Radu Roiban and Sarah Shandera. In addition Professors Roger Penrose, Jerzy Lewandowski, Alejandro Corichi and Stephon Alexander hold visiting appointments at the Institute. Successful candidates will be encouraged to interact also with mathematicians in the Center for Fundamental Theory and with members of the Center for Theoretical and Observational Cosmology. During the current academic year, the Institute has approximately 20 post-docs (including Drs. Ivan Agullo, Marco Chiodaroli, Alok Laddha, Elena Magliaro, Przemyslaw Malkiewicz, William Nelson, Claudio Perini, Dmytro Volin in Fundamental Theory). For further information on the Institute, see http://www.gravity.psu.edu/ Current areas of research include loop quantum gravity, mathematical, conceptual as well as phenomenological issues in cosmology, black hole dynamics, interface of analytical and numerical quantum gravity, supergravity and gravitational aspects of string theory and non-commutative geometry. In particular, ideas from both loop quantum gravity and string theory are being applied to fundamental problems of cosmology, analysis of singularity resolution and the issue of information loss. More generally, the Institute provides a rare forum for stimulating exchanges of ideas between different approaches to quantum gravity. Interested candidates should send a CV, a publication list and a statement of research interests/plans and arrange to have three recommendation letters sent directly to: Mrs. Randi Neshteruk IGC Post-Doc Applications The Pennsylvania State University 104 Davey Lab #258 University Park, PA 16802-6300, USA E-mail applications and letters of reference will be accepted provided the material is included as PDF file attachments. They should be sent to igc-applications[AT]gravity.psu.edu The deadline for receipt of all application material is December 25, 2011. Penn State is an affirmative action/equal opportunity employer +++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++ 2.9 Postdoctoral position in GR, HEP, black-hole physics at Lisbon ------------------------------------------------------------------ Announcement on Hyperspace@AEI: http://hyperspace.aei.mpg.de/2011/09/20/postdoctoral-position-in-general-re… Institution: Lisbon, Portugal Deadline: Sat, Dec 31, 2011 Additional Information: http://blackholes.ist.utl.pt/ The Centro Multidisciplinar de Astrofísica (CENTRA) invites applications for a postdoctoral position in the area of General Relativity, High Energy physics and black hole physics, including Numerical Relativity. The appointment is for two years, subject to funding renewal and satisfactory performance. Funds for one additional (third) year are possible. A tentative date for the appointment is 1st Mar, 2012 (with possible variations to be agreed upon with the successful applicant). All candidates must hold a Ph.D. in Physics. The Centro Multidisciplinar de Astrofísica (CENTRA) is a research centre which is part of the Physics Department of the Instituto Superior Técnico in Lisbon, a leading research Institution in Portugal. More information on the Center can be found at http://centra.ist.utl.pt/ The gravity group is currently focusing on phenomenology of black hole physics and high energy physics, and is composed of Vitor Cardoso, José Lemos and several Postdoctoral Fellows. More details can be found at http://blackholes.ist.utl.pt/ The applicant is expected to contribute to the efforts of the group and to the training of students. Applicants should send a curriculum vitae, a list of publications, a statement of research interests and three letters of recommendation to the following e-mail address: jobs_gravity[AT]ist.utl.pt Please use the subject "GR/HEP physics". Applications should be received by Dec 31st, 2011. Incomplete applications shall not be considered. Screening of applicants will begin on Jan 1, 2012 and will continue until the position is filled. For more information please contact Vitor Cardoso (vitor.cardoso[AT]ist.utl.pt). These positions are supported by European Research Council. +++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++ 2.10 Faculty position in Astrophysics at Purdue University ---------------------------------------------------------- Announcement on Hyperspace@AEI: http://hyperspace.aei.mpg.de/2011/09/09/faculty-position-in-astrophysics/ Institution: West Lafayette, IN, USA Deadline: Thu, Dec 01, 2011 Additional Information: https://www.physics.purdue.edu/searches/app/ The Department of Physics at Purdue University (http://www.physics.purdue.edu) seeks applications for a faculty position at the level of assistant professor in the area of astrophysics. Preference will be given to theorists or numerical astrophysicists. The current astrophysics program at Purdue has a strong focus on high energy astrophysics, covering a wide range of topics including pulsars, supernova remnants, microquasars, AGN, galaxies, and clusters of galaxies, with observational efforts at radio, optical, X-ray, and gamma-ray wavelengths. Successful candidates are expected to develop a synergy with the current program while pursuing new directions. Purdue maintains excellent scientific computing research facilities on campus, and is a member of the XSEDE high performance computing consortium. Applicants must have a Ph.D. in astrophysics or a related field, an outstanding record of research accomplishments, and evidence of potential excellence in teaching at both the undergraduate and graduate levels. Salary and benefits are highly competitive. Candidates are expected to develop vigorous research programs, supervise graduate students, and teach undergraduate and graduate courses. Interested candidates should submit their curriculum vitae, publication list, and brief descriptions of their planned research program and teaching philosophy. Electronic submission is preferred: https://www.physics.purdue.edu/searches/app/. At least three letters of recommendation should be sent to Astrophysics Search, Department of Physics, Purdue University, 525 Northwestern Ave., West Lafayette, Indiana 47907-2036, USA. Applications completed by December 1, 2011 will be given full consideration, although the search will continue until the position is filled. A background check will be required for employment in this position. Purdue University is an Equal Opportunity/Equal Access/Affirmative Action employer and is committed to building a diverse faculty of excellence. +++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++ 2.11 Tenure Track in Gravitational-wave Astronomy and Astrophysics at Cal State Fullerton ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Announcement on Hyperspace@AEI: http://hyperspace.aei.mpg.de/2011/09/07/gravitational-wave-astronomy-and-as… Institution: Fullerton, CA, USA Deadline: Mon, Oct 17, 2011 Additional Information: http://diversity.fullerton.edu/Jobs/physics_theoretical_gravitational_wave_… The Physics Department at California State University, Fullerton invites applications for a tenure-track position in gravitational-wave astronomy and astrophysics with an emphasis on data analysis and/or source modeling for the Laser Interferometer Gravitational-wave Observatory (LIGO) and its international partners. Appointment will be at the Assistant Professor level beginning August 2012. The successful candidate must indicate a strong commitment to excellence in teaching a diverse population of students and to curriculum development at both the undergraduate and graduate levels, and will be expected to develop an active, externally-funded research program that includes close collaboration with the existing LIGO research group at CSUF and contributes to the development of our new Gravitational-Wave Physics and Astronomy Center. The department offers both B.S. and M.S. degrees and is seeking a physicist who is able to involve undergraduate and Master’s level students in their research activities. A Ph.D. in physics and a minimum of one year of postdoctoral experience (two years preferred) is required. Applications must include a curriculum vitae, an approximately 1500 word description of teaching experience and interests, an approximately 1500 word description of research plans and goals which includes start-up needs, and letters of recommendation from at least three references familiar with your research and teaching experience. Applications should be sent to: Chair, Search Committee, Department of Physics, California State University, Fullerton, PO Box 6850, Fullerton, CA 92834-6850. Review of completed applications will begin on Monday, October 17, 2011. Applications received after this date will be reviewed only if the position is not filled from the original pool of applicants. Cal State Fullerton is an Equal Opportunity/ Title IX/503/504/VEVRA/ADA Employer. The announcement is posted on the CSUF campus website: http://diversity.fullerton.edu/Jobs/Default.aspx http://diversity.fullerton.edu/Jobs/physics_theoretical_gravitational_wave_… +++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++ 2.12 Post-doc position and PhD studentships in cosmology at University of Auckland ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Announcement on Hyperspace@AEI: http://hyperspace.aei.mpg.de/2011/09/05/post-doc-position-and-phd-studentsh… Institution: University of Auckland, New Zealand Additional Information: http://bit.ly/qn63Lw Richard Easther is moving to the University of Auckland at the end of 2011. He is setting up an early universe cosmology programme there, and is recruiting a post-doc and PhD student(s), commencing at any point in 2012. The University of Auckland is New Zealand's largest university, and Auckland is a fantastic place to live. Interested PhD candidates should contact Richard Easther directly (richard.easther[AT]yale.edu) -- note that New Zealand universities offer a "British style" research-based PhD, so candidates should either be ready for research, or prepared to undertake the necessary coursework before enrolling for the PhD. Applications for the post-doc positions should be made at the following URL: http://bit.ly/qn63Lw ================================================================= 3. News ================================================================= 3.1 hyperspace@aei is two years old ----------------------------------- Announcement on Hyperspace@AEI: http://hyperspace.aei.mpg.de/2011/09/30/hyperspaceaei-is-two-years-old/ Dear all, Two years have passed since the first bulletin of hyperspace@aei was broadcasted in September 2009. Since then we have delivered monthtly bulletins to an ever increasing mailing list of about 1500 subscribers, announcing about 175 job, 150 conferences and 80 news of different type. As ever we try strive to improve hyperspace@aei and welcome your advice and suggestions. Best wishes, Luciano Rezzolla, Frank Schulz and Vera Osswald +++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++ 3.2 Living Reviews in Relativity: "The Motion of Point Particles in Curved Spacetime" (update) ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Announcement on Hyperspace@AEI: http://hyperspace.aei.mpg.de/2011/09/29/living-reviews-in-relativity-the-mo… Additional Information: http://www.livingreviews.org/lrr-2011-7 Living Reviews in Relativity has published a major update of the review "The Motion of Point Particles in Curved Spacetime" by Eric Poisson, Adam Pound, and Ian Vega on September 29, 2011. Please find the abstract and further details below. ------------------ PUB.NO. lrr-2011-7 Poisson, Eric and Pound, Adam and Vega, Ian "The Motion of Point Particles in Curved Spacetime" ACCEPTED: 2011-08-23 PUBLISHED: 2011-09-29 FULL ARTICLE AT: http://www.livingreviews.org/lrr-2011-7 UPDATE NOTE: This version of the review is a major update of the original article published in 2004. Two additional authors, Adam Pound and Ian Vega, have joined the article's original author, and each one has contributed a major piece of the update. The literature survey presented in Sections 2 was contributed by Ian Vega, and Part V (Sections 20 to 23) was contributed by Adam Pound. Part V replaces a section of the 2004 article in which the motion of a small black hole was derived by the method of matched asymptotic expansions; this material can still be found in Ref. [142], but Pound's work provides a much more satisfactory foundation for the gravitational self-force. The case study of Section 1.10 is new, and the ''exact'' formulation of the dynamics of a point mass in Section 19.1 is a major improvement from the original article. The concluding remarks of Section 24, contributed mostly by Adam Pound, are also updated from the 2004 article. The number of references has increased from 64 to 187. ABSTRACT: This review is concerned with the motion of a point scalar charge, a point electric charge, and a point mass in a specified background spacetime. In each of the three cases the particle produces a field that behaves as outgoing radiation in the wave zone, and therefore removes energy from the particle. In the near zone the field acts on the particle and gives rise to a self-force that prevents the particle from moving on a geodesic of the background spacetime. The self-force contains both conservative and dissipative terms, and the latter are responsible for the radiation reaction. The work done by the self-force matches the energy radiated away by the particle. The field's action on the particle is difficult to calculate because of its singular nature: the field diverges at the position of the particle. But it is possible to isolate the field's singular part and show that it exerts no force on the particle – its only effect is to contribute to the particle's inertia. What remains after subtraction is a regular field that is fully responsible for the self-force. Because this field satisfies a homogeneous wave equation, it can be thought of as a free field that interacts with the particle; it is this interaction that gives rise to the self-force. The mathematical tools required to derive the equations of motion of a point scalar charge, a point electric charge, and a point mass in a specified background spacetime are developed here from scratch. The review begins with a discussion of the basic theory of bitensors (Part I). It then applies the theory to the construction of convenient coordinate systems to chart a neighbourhood of the particle's word line (Part II). It continues with a thorough discussion of Green's functions in curved spacetime (Part III). The review presents a detailed derivation of each of the three equations of motion (Part IV). Because the notion of a point mass is problematic in general relativity, the review concludes (Part V) with an alternative derivation of the equations of motion that applies to a small body of arbitrary internal structure. UPCOMING ARTICLES AT: http://relativity.livingreviews.org/Articles/upcoming.html

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[Hyperspace-list] Hyperspace Bulletin for September 2011
by hyperspace＠aei.mpg.de 02 Sep '11

02 Sep '11

################################################################# Table of Contents ################################################################# 1. Conferences 1.1 CompStar: the physics and astrophysics of compact stars 1.2 Essential Cosmology for the Next Generation 2012 2. Jobs 2.1 Postdoctoral position in Cosmology/Astroparticle Physics at University of Padova and INFN Padova 2.2 Postdoctoral position in Gravitational Wave Physics at the University of Roma Tor Vergata 3. News 3.1 New book - General Relativity Without Calculus 3.2 Living Reviews in Relativity: "Coalescence of Black Hole-Neutron Star Binaries" 3.3 Daniel Chalonge Medal 2011 awarded to John Mather 3.4 Read the latest CQG focus section on inhomogeneous cosmological models and averaging in cosmology ================================================================= 1. Conferences ================================================================= 1.1 CompStar: the physics and astrophysics of compact stars ------------------------------------------------------------ Announcement on Hyperspace@AEI: http://hyperspace.aei.mpg.de/2011/08/31/compstar-the-physics-and-astrophysi… Starting Mon, Jun 04, 2012 to Fri, Jun 08, 2012 Location: Tahiti, French Polynesia Additional Information: http://compstar-esf.org/tahiti Over the last decade, compact stars have been shown to be excellent tools to test fundamental properties of gravity and matter under extreme conditions. The new generation of space X-ray and gamma-ray observatories, as well as improvements in radio telescopes and interferometric techniques, are enabling new observations and break-through discoveries. Moreover, a large multinational effort has taken place in the last decade to build detectors, offering the exciting prospect of the detection of gravitational waves. We are thus experiencing the blooming of Astro-Nuclear Physics, an exciting research area in which the physics of compact stars plays a fundamental role. While a part of this physics relies on theories that are well tested in terrestrial laboratories and requires in most of the cases developments at the forefront of modern physics, a good part of it is basically unknown in the regimes found in compact stars. Unveiling this picture is a task made challenging by the multidisciplinary character of the problem, which requires expertise from historically independent disciplines, such as nuclear and particle physics, astrophysics, gravitational and computational physics. In the past four years, the European Science Foundation Research Networking Programme “CompStar - Physics of Compact Stars" has succeeded in bringing together the best European scientists in these fields, to reach a better understanding of the physics of compact stars. Presently, CompStar represents the reference European environment in which experts from different fields can collaborate, present their results and discuss the implications across disciplines. CompStar is now in its culminating stage and intends to extend this kind of network beyond Europe: the Tahiti 2012 conference is the first concrete action being taken to reach this ambitious goal. In order to mark a difference with the previous four CompStar European meetings, a venue was chosen which is geographically close to the different scientific communities we intend to interconnect: the French island of Tahiti, in the middle of the Pacific Ocean, is the symbolic hub of a network including the Americas, Japan, C hina, Korea, India, Australia. Following the spirit of CompStar, the conference will cover the • physics of compact stars, • astrophysics of compact stars, • superdense matter, • neutrino physics, • astrochemistry, • gravitational waves from compact stars, and • supernova explosions. Deadlines for registration • early bird: September 1st, 2011 (very special flight offer), extended to September 9th, 2011 • ordinary: end 2011 (special flight offer) • night owl: April 2012 (regular flights) Deadline for abstract submission • February 29th, 2012 David Blaschke, Pierre Pizzocchero, Luciano Rezzolla (chairs of CompStar) +++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++ 1.2 Essential Cosmology for the Next Generation 2012 ---------------------------------------------------- Announcement on Hyperspace@AEI: http://hyperspace.aei.mpg.de/2011/08/25/essential-cosmology-for-the-next-ge… Starting Mon, Jan 16, 2012 to Fri, Jan 20, 2012 Location: Cancún, Mexico Additional Information: http://bccp.lbl.gov/beach_program/index2012.html This is the 4th annual "Cosmology on the Beach" meeting, combining a winter school with the latest research results. Course lectures blend with recent research advances in plenary talks, and student/postdoc participation. We encourage a diverse group of advanced graduate students and postdocs interested in attending to apply; established researchers enthusiastic about interacting are also welcome. Organizers: Berkeley Center for Cosmological Physics & Instituto Avanzado de Cosmologia Mexico ================================================================= 2. Jobs ================================================================= 2.1 Postdoctoral position in Cosmology/Astroparticle Physics at University of Padova and INFN Padova ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Announcement on Hyperspace@AEI: http://hyperspace.aei.mpg.de/2011/08/31/postdoctoral-position-in-cosmologya… Institution: Padova, Italy Deadline: Sat, Oct 01, 2011 Additional Information: http://academicjobsonline.org/ajo/jobs/923 The INFN PD51 research group leading the Cosmology/Astroparticle program "Inflation, Dark Matter and the Large-Scale Structure of the Universe" announces one postdoctoral position in Cosmology and Astroparticle Physics, to begin in Fall 2012. The position will be a 1 + 1 year appointment and reserved for non-Italian citizens. The post-doc research activity will be mainly related to primordial non-Gaussianity and Inflationary models. The following Institutes participating in the program may host the Fellowship: - Padova INFN Section and University, Italy (main node) - Ferrara INFN Section and University, Italy - Bologna INFN Section and University, Italy - Laboratori Nazionali del Gran Sasso and University of L’Aquila, Italy - Roma Tor Vergata University, Italy - Roma III University, Italy - Torino University, Italy - Trieste SISSA and University, Italy The staff team members are: Padova: Nicola Bartolo, Michele Liguori, Sabino Matarrese, Massimo Pietroni, Antonio Riotto. Also present in Padova are: Gianguido Dall'Agata, Ferruccio Feruglio, Antonio Masiero, Massimo Passera, Stefano Rigolin, Fabio Zwirner Ferrara: Denis Comelli, Paolo Natoli Bologna: Stefano Ettori, Fabio Finelli, Massimo Meneghetti, Lauro Moscardini Laboratori Nazionali del Gran Sasso and L’Aquila: Zourab Berejiani, Luigi Pilo, Francesco Villante Roma Tor Vergata: Amedeo Balbi, Francesco Fucito, Nicola Vittorio Roma III: Enzo Branchini Torino: Antonaldo Diaferio, Luisa Ostorero Trieste SISSA and University: Carlo Baccigalupi, Stefano Borgani, Stefano Cristiani, Samuel Leach, Paolo Tozzi, Matteo Viel When applying, candidates should specify whether they want to be considered for only one or more Institutes. For full consideration, applications should be received by October 1, 2011. Later applications might be considered until the position is filled. Submit the following items - Cover Letter - Curriculum Vitae - Research Statement - Publication List - Two or More Reference Letters online at this website: http://academicjobsonline.org/ajo/jobs/923 Further Info: Nicola Bartolo, Dipartimento di Fisica "Galileo Galilei", via Marzolo, 8-I-35131 Padova, Italy +++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++ 2.2 Postdoctoral position in Gravitational Wave Physics at the University of Roma Tor Vergata ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Announcement on Hyperspace@AEI: http://hyperspace.aei.mpg.de/2011/08/02/postdoctoral-position-in-gravitatio… Institution: Rome, Italy Postdoctoral position in Gravitational Wave Physics at the University of Roma Tor Vergata (ref. 14538/11). The Gravitational Wave Group at the University of Roma Tor Vergata invites applications for a two-year post-doctoral position in support of research in advanced interferometry for gravitational wave detectors. The successful candidate will perform experimental/simulation work on the development and design of adaptive optical systems within the ongoing activity on the Thermal Compensation System for Advanced Virgo. The Tor Vergata Gravitational Wave Group currently consists of faculty members (Eugenio Coccia, Viviana Fafone, Paolo Gorla, Yury Minenkov and Alessio Rocchi), four post-doctoral research assistants and one post-graduate student. The group has a broad research interest in gravitational-wave science, is member of the Virgo Collaboration, and has roles in the Einstein gravitational-wave Telescope Science Team. The group has excellent laboratory and computer facilities. The application form can be downloaded from: http://www.ac.infn.it/personale/borsedistudio/pdf/getfile.php?filename=1453… The deadline for application is 20th August 2011. Candidates must have a PhD in Physics, Astronomy, Engineering, Computing Science or equivalent by the date of the deadline. The candidates cannot be older than 33 years. Documents to be attached to the application form: - Curriculum vitae with list of publications; - Certificate of Master Degree (with the final evaluation + scores for each course); - Certificate of Ph.D. Degree; Further useful information (e.g. previous contracts, support letters) can be included in the application. For further information, informal enquiries or any help with filling up application forms (in Italian), please contact Prof. Viviana Fafone (viviana.fafone[AT]roma2.infn.it) or Prof. Eugenio Coccia (eugenio.coccia[AT]roma2.infn.it). ================================================================= 3. News ================================================================= 3.1 New book - General Relativity Without Calculus -------------------------------------------------- Announcement on Hyperspace@AEI: http://hyperspace.aei.mpg.de/2011/08/31/new-book-general-relativity-without… Additional Information: http://www.springer.com/physics/theoretical%2C+mathematical+%26+computation… “General Relativity Without Calculus” offers a compact but mathematically correct introduction to the general theory of relativity, assuming only a basic knowledge of high school mathematics and physics. Targeted at first year undergraduates (and advanced high school students) who wish to learn Einstein’s theory beyond popular science accounts, it covers the basics of special relativity, Minkowski space-time, non-Euclidean geometry, Newtonian gravity, the Schwarzschild solution, black holes and cosmology. The quick-paced style is balanced by over 75 exercises (including full solutions), allowing readers to test and consolidate their understanding. +++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++ 3.2 Living Reviews in Relativity: "Coalescence of Black Hole-Neutron Star Binaries" ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Announcement on Hyperspace@AEI: http://hyperspace.aei.mpg.de/2011/08/30/living-reviews-in-relativity-coales… Additional Information: http://www.livingreviews.org/lrr-2011-6 Living Reviews in Relativity has published a new review article on "Coalescence of Black Hole-Neutron Star Binaries" by Masaru Shibata and Keisuke Taniguchi on August 29, 2011. Please find the abstract and further details below. ------------------ PUB.NO. lrr-2011-6 Shibata, Masaru and Taniguchi, Keisuke "Coalescence of Black Hole-Neutron Star Binaries" (incl. 30 figures and 232 references) ACCEPTED: 2011-07-07 PUBLISHED: 2011-08-29 FULL ARTICLE AT: http://www.livingreviews.org/lrr-2011-6 ABSTRACT: We review the current status of general relativistic studies for the coalescence of black hole-neutron star (BH-NS) binaries. First, procedures for a solution of BH-NS binaries in quasi-equilibrium circular orbits and the numerical results, such as quasi-equilibrium sequence and mass-shedding limit, of high-precision computation are summarized. Then, the current status of numerical-relativity simulations for the merger of the BH-NS binary is described. We summarize our understanding for the merger and/or tidal disruption process, the criterion for tidal disruption, the properties of the remnant formed after the tidal disruption, gravitational waveform, and gravitational-wave spectrum. UPCOMING ARTICLES AT: http://relativity.livingreviews.org/Articles/upcoming.html +++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++ 3.3 Daniel Chalonge Medal 2011 awarded to John Mather ----------------------------------------------------- Announcement on Hyperspace@AEI: http://hyperspace.aei.mpg.de/2011/08/02/daniel-chalonge-medal-2011-awarded-… Additional Information: http://chalonge.obspm.fr Ecole Internationale d'Astrophysique Daniel Chalonge The International Astrophysics School Daniel Chalonge has awarded the Daniel Chalonge Medal 2011 to Dr. John C. Mather, Nobel Laureate 2006 for the outstanding results of the COBE satellite, and present Senior Project Scientist for the James Webb Space Telescope, Dr. John C. Mather is a Senior Astrophysicist in the Observational Cosmology Laboratory at the NASA Goddard Space Flight Center (College Park, Maryland, USA). The medal was awarded to John Mather for his huge contribution to modern cosmology, in particular for his outstanding effort in promoting and leading key missions for the study of the Universe, as the COBE satellite and now the JWST, deeply discussed in the frame of the Chalonge School and the training and formation of young physicists and astrophysicists. He also contributed to ground observation programs leading advisory and working groups for the National Academy of Sciences, NASA, and the NSF (for the ALMA, the Atacama Large Millimeter Array, and for the CARA, the Center for Astrophysical Research in the Antarctic). As Senior Project Scientist for the JWST, John Mather successfully leads the science team, and represents the scientific interests within the project management. The medal was presented to John Mather on 22th July 2011 during the Open Session of the 15th Paris Cosmology Colloquium 2011 at the Observatoire de Paris HQ (historic Perrault building) in the Cassini Hall, on the meridian of Paris, which was attended by about hundred participants from the world over, among them three laureate of the Chalonge Medal: George Smoot, Nobel laureate of physics, Anthony Lasenby and Peter Biermann. John Mather brilliantly presented the JWST Program, the large infrared-optimized space telescope planned to operate from 2018 as the best successor for the Hubble and Spitzer Space Telescopes. The Chalonge Medal represents too a warm acknowledgement and support to Dr. John Mather's present and future activities in the JWST. The Chalonge Medal, coined exclusively for the Chalonge School by the prestigious Hotel de la Monnaie de Paris (the French Mint), is a surprise award and only eight Chalonge medals have been awarded in the 20 year school history. The list of the awarded Chalonge Medals is the following: 1991: Subramanyan Chandrasekhar, Nobel prize of physics 1992: Bruno Pontecorvo 2006: George Smoot, Nobel prize of physics 2007: Carlos Frenk 2008: Anthony Lasenby 2008: Bernard Sadoulet 2009: Peter Biermann 2011: John Mather Science with great intellectual endeavour and a human face. True and healthy science. Outstanding gentleperson scientists. Scientists recipients of the Daniel Chalonge Medal are Ambassadors of the School. See the announcement, full history, photo gallery and links at: http://chalonge.obspm.fr Click on "The Daniel Chalonge Medal 2011": http://chalonge.obspm.fr/Medal_Chalonge2011.pdf and Archives Daniel Chalonge: http://chalonge.obspm.fr/Archives_Daniel_Chalonge.html One of the aims of the Chalonge School is to bring the attention to new programs which will produce a clearer and deeper understanding of the Universe with both innovative experiments and theory. During the 15th Paris Cosmology Colloquium 2011, the Chalonge School has made the following statement in support to the James Webb Space Telescope: "The Ecole Internationale Daniel Chalonge considers that JWST is an exceptional opportunity for the future of astrophysics and astronomy worldwide. The Ecole Internationale Daniel Chalonge recognizes the outstanding scientific value of the JWST project, its potentiality and worldwide impact and strongly supports its development and successful completion." Norma G. Sanchez (1), Héctor J. de Vega (2), Maria Cristina Falvella (3), Alba Zanini (4) (1) Director of the International Daniel Chalonge School, CNRS, Observatoire de Paris, France. (2) CNRS, University Pierre & Marie Curie, Paris, France. (3) Italian Space Agency HQ, Rome, Italy. (4) Istituto Nazionale di Fisica Nucleare (INFN), Turin, Italy With compliments and kind regards, Norma G. Sanchez, Hector J. de Vega Ecole Chalonge <chalonge.ecole[AT]obspm.fr> http://chalonge.obspm.fr +++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++ 3.4 Read the latest CQG focus section on inhomogeneous cosmological models and averaging in cosmology ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Announcement on Hyperspace@AEI: http://hyperspace.aei.mpg.de/2011/08/02/read-the-latest-cqg-focus-section-i… Additional Information: http://iopscience.iop.org/0264-9381/28/16 CQG’s latest focus section on inhomogeneous cosmological models and averaging in cosmology is now available to read on the CQG website: http://iopscience.iop.org/0264-9381/28/16 The issue was edited by CQG Board Members Lars Andersson and Alan Coley. The special section focuses on the physical state of the present universe and the problem of going beyond perturbation theory. The following topics are covered: - a general overview and a discussion of the relevant issues; - inhomogeneous cosmological models (including non-Copernican models); - the current observations and physics of the universe and - averaging and backreaction. I would like to thank the guest editors and all of the authors and referees of the focus section for their contributions to this excellent issue of Classical and Quantum Gravity. Yours sincerely Adam Day Publisher Classical and Quantum Gravity

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[Hyperspace-list] Hyperspace Bulletin for August 2011
by rezzolla＠aei.mpg.de 02 Aug '11

02 Aug '11

################################################################# Table of Contents ################################################################# 1. Conferences 1.1 Gravitational Wave Physics and Astronomy Workshop (GWPAW) 1.2 LOFT Science Meeting 1.3 The 21st workshop on General Relativity and Gravitation in Japan (JGRG21) 1.4 South African Gravity Society Meeting 2011 1.5 Relativity and Gravitation - 100 Years after Einstein in Prague 2. Jobs 2.1 OG51 Theory Postdoc fellowship for non-Italians 2.2 International Relativistic Astrophysics PhD: 2nd call for 2011-2012 3. News 3.1 Presentations of the 15th Paris Cosmology Colloquium 2011 3.2 A Statement from the European LISA Study Team 3.3 Living Reviews in Relativity: "Gravitational Wave Detection by Interferometry" (major update) 3.4 Quantum Gravity: the first 25 years. Read the focus section published in Classical and Quantum Gravity. ================================================================= 1. Conferences ================================================================= 1.1 Gravitational Wave Physics and Astronomy Workshop (GWPAW) ------------------------------------------------------------- Announcement on Hyperspace@AEI: http://hyperspace.aei.mpg.de/2011/07/29/gravitational-wave-physics-and-astr… Starting Mon, Jun 04, 2012 to Thu, Jun 07, 2012 Location: Hannover, Germany GWPAW is the meeting formerly called GWDAW. It is a general meeting on the physics and astronomy of gravitational waves, techniques for their detection, and interpretation of data and results. The meeting will be hosted by AEI Hannover, but held at the Novotel here: http://www.novotel.com/gb/hotel-5390-novotel-hannover/index.shtml. AEI has signed a contract for the meeting rooms and have also reserved a block of guest rooms at reasonable cost. People are welcome to make reservations at any time. +++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++ 1.2 LOFT Science Meeting ------------------------ Announcement on Hyperspace@AEI: http://hyperspace.aei.mpg.de/2011/07/17/loft-science-meeting/ Starting Wed, Oct 26, 2011 to Fri, Oct 28, 2011 Location: Amsterdam, Netherlands Additional Information: http://www.isdc.unige.ch/loft/index.php/meetings/loft-science-meeting LOFT, the Large Observatory For X-ray Timing, is a newly proposed space mission that will answer fundamental questions about the motion of matter orbiting close to the event horizon of a black hole, and the state of matter in neutron stars. LOFT was recently selected by ESA as one of the four M3 mission candidates that will compete for a launch opportunity at the start of the 2020s. During this assessment phase we need to make a full study of the exciting science that could be done with such a telescope, and solidify the relationship between the science goals and the technical requirements. To do this, and to solicit full involvement from the wider astronomical community in this opportunity, there will be a LOFT Science meeting on October 26-28 this year at the Science Park in Amsterdam, the Netherlands. There will be a mix of invited reviews, contributed talks, and discussion sessions, to ensure that innovative science ideas get full exposure. To register, and for more details, please see the meeting website: http://www.isdc.unige.ch/loft/index.php/meetings/loft-science-meeting We look forward to seeing you in Amsterdam in October! Anna Watts, on behalf of the international SOC +++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++ 1.3 The 21st workshop on General Relativity and Gravitation in Japan (JGRG21) ----------------------------------------------------------------------------- Announcement on Hyperspace@AEI: http://hyperspace.aei.mpg.de/2011/07/13/the-21st-workshop-on-general-relati… Starting Mon, Sep 26, 2011 to Thu, Sep 29, 2011 Location: Sendai, Japan Additional Information: http://www.astr.tohoku.ac.jp/jgrg21/ Sakura Hall, Katahira Campus, Tohoku University 26-29 September 2011 There has been an impressive progress in astrophysical/cosmological observations in recent years. Cosmology has entered an era of precision science. Astrophysical black holes have been observed in many frequency bands with better resolutions and sensitivities. Observations of gamma-ray bursts have added a new mystery to relativistic astrophysics. And, a new frontier is waiting to be explored by gravitational wave interferometers. On the theoretical side, motivated by unified theories of fundamental interactions, especially string theory, many efforts have been made for studies of physics in 5-dimensional or higher dimensional spacetimes, and there is a growing interest in experimental verifications of extra dimensions. There have been also important and interesting developments in various other areas, including alternative theories of gravity, quantum gravity, and spacetime singularities, to mention a few. In this workshop, we plan to overview these recent developments and discuss future perspectives through invited and contributed presentations. +++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++ 1.4 South African Gravity Society Meeting 2011 ---------------------------------------------- Announcement on Hyperspace@AEI: http://hyperspace.aei.mpg.de/2011/07/11/south-african-gravity-society-meeti… Starting Sun, Sep 11, 2011 to Tue, Sep 13, 2011 Location: Grahamstown, South Africa Additional Information: http://www.ru.ac.za/mathematics/events/sags2011 The 2011 meeting of the South African Gravity Society will take place at Rhodes University, in Grahamstown, from the 11th to the 13th of September 2011. Registration and abstract submission will be open from the 1st of June 2011 to the 15th of August 2011. The following registration fees apply: * Early registration (before 1st of August 2011): R650 * Late registration: R750. +++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++ 1.5 Relativity and Gravitation - 100 Years after Einstein in Prague ------------------------------------------------------------------- Announcement on Hyperspace@AEI: http://hyperspace.aei.mpg.de/2011/07/07/relativity-and-gravitation-100-year… Starting Mon, Jun 25, 2012 to Fri, Jun 29, 2012 Location: Prague, Czech Republic Additional Information: http://ae100prg.mff.cuni.cz At the beginning of April 1911 Albert Einstein arrived in Prague to become full professor of theoretical physics at the German part of Charles University. It was there, for the first time, that he concentrated primarily on the problem of gravitation. Before he left Prague in July 1912 he had submitted the paper “Relativität und Gravitation: Erwiderung auf eine Bemerkung von M. Abraham” in which he remarkably anticipated what a future theory of gravity should look like. At the occasion of the Einstein-in-Prague centenary we organize an international meeting: "Relativity and Gravitation - 100 Years after Einstein in Prague" June 25 – 29, 2012, Prague, Czech Republic The main topics of the conference will include • Mathematical relativity • Numerical relativity • Relativistic astrophysics • Relativistic cosmology • Quantum gravity • Gravitation and experiment • Conceptual and historical issues The conference is organized under the auspices of the Rector of Charles University. The lectures will take place in the historical complex of the University in the heart of Prague’s Old Town. The Scientific Organizing Committee includes Marek Abramowicz, Lars Andersson, Abhay Ashtekar, Julian Barbour, Jiří Bičák, Roger Blandford, Bernd Brügmann, Piotr Chruściel, Thibault Damour, Karsten Danzmann, Fernando De Felice, George Ellis, John Friedman, Helmut Friedrich, Valeri Frolov, Gary Gibbons, Gary Horowitz, Joseph Katz, Karel Kuchař, Jerzy Lewandowski, Malcolm MacCallum (to be confirmed), Gernot Neugebauer, Hermann Nicolai, Igor Novikov, Martin Rees, Oscar Reula, Luciano Rezzolla, Misao Sasaki, Gerhard Schäfer, Bernd Schmidt, Alexei Starobinsky, Paul Tod, Robert Wald, Clifford Will. The program will be centered on invited lectures; it will also include contributed oral and poster presentations. We will reserve time for cultural events and sightseeing (e.g., places associated with Einstein, Mach, Doppler, Kepler, and Brahe). We are considering the publication of proceedings in a scientific journal. Anticipated attendance is 120-150 participants. Jiří Bičák (on behalf of SOC and LOC) ================================================================= 2. Jobs ================================================================= 2.1 OG51 Theory Postdoc fellowship for non-Italians --------------------------------------------------- Announcement on Hyperspace@AEI: http://hyperspace.aei.mpg.de/2011/07/29/og51-theory-postdoc-fellowship-for-… Institution: Italy, various locations Deadline: Fri, Sep 30, 2011 Additional Information: https://academicjobsonline.org/ajo/jobs/808 The theory group OG51 announces one postdoctoral position for non-Italian citizens. The research program regards the modeling of gravitational wave sources, with particular reference to gravitational wave emission during the early stages of neutron stars life, and to the associated neutrino processes. Research will be carried on at one of the following Institutes: - Department of Physics, "Sapienza" University of Rome - Department of Physics, University of Catania - S.I.S.S.A., Trieste - Departiment of Physics, University of Parma - Departiment of Physics, University of Milano Bicocca - Department of Physics, University of Torino - Department of Physics, University of Ferrara. The winner of the position can choose one these institutions. The team members are: - Rome: Valeria Ferrari, Leonardo Gualtieri, Omar Benhar - Catania: Fiorella Burgio, Hans-Joseph Schultze - S.I.S.S.A.: John Miller - Parma: Roberto De Pietri - Milano: Francesco Haardt - Torino: Angelo Tartaglia - Ferrara: Pierluigi Fortini The initial appointment will be for 1 year, renewable for a second year. For full consideration, applications should be received by Sept. 30, 2011. Later applications might be considered until the position is filled. Application must be submitted through the website https://academicjobsonline.org/ajo/jobs/808 For more information contact Leonardo Gualtieri leonardo.gualtieri[AT]roma1.infn.it +++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++ 2.2 International Relativistic Astrophysics PhD: 2nd call for 2011-2012 ----------------------------------------------------------------------- Announcement on Hyperspace@AEI: http://hyperspace.aei.mpg.de/2011/07/27/international-relativistic-astrophy… Institution: several universities in ICRANET Deadline: Fri, Sep 30, 2011 Additional Information: http://www.irap-phd.org/ 9 Erasmus Mundus funded positions available (3 for European students, 5 for non-European students, 1 for “Western Balkans and Turkey Window” candidates) Deadlines: 30 September 2011 Additional Information: http://www.irap-phd.org – http://www.icranet.org – http://www.icra.it Following the successful scientific space missions by the European Space Agency (ESA) and the European Southern Observatory (ESO) in Chile, as well as the high energy particle activities at CERN in Genève, we have initiated a Ph.D. programme dedicated to create a pool of scientists in the field of relativistic astrophysics. After taking full advantage of the observational and experimental facilities mentioned above, the students of our programme are expected to lead the theoretical developments of one of the most active fields of research: relativistic astrophysics. This program provides expertise in the most advanced topics of mathematical and theoretical physics, and in relativistic field theories, in the context of astronomy, astrophysics and cosmology. It provides the ability to model the observational data received from the above laboratories. This activity is necessarily international as no single university can have a scientific expertise in such a broad range of fields. The Erasmus Mundus program has a very competitive salary as well as comprehensive benefits. The Institutions participating in the IRAP PhD are: the international organization ICRANet as coordinating institution and the University of Nice Sophia Antipolis as the host Institution; the Albert Einstein Institute, Potsdam; the Brazilian Center for Physics Research (CBPF) and ICRA Brasil; the Free University of Berlin; Indian Centre for Space Physics, Kolkata; Observatoire de la Cote D’Azur, Nice; Shanghai Astronomical Observatory, China; University of Ferrara, Italy; University of Rome, la Sapienza, Italy; University of Savoie, Annecy, France; University of Stockolm, Sweden, Tartu Observatory , Estonia. The Final Ph.D. degree will be jointly delivered by the Academic Institutions participating in the program. We encourage applications from the most qualified and motivated candidates worldwide, independent of nationality, gender or background. Special attention will be given to applicants originating from or planning to move to countries where ICRANet activities are in action or being planned. The Courses: Each student will have to follow 180 hours of courses during the three years of the Ph.D. program. There is also a possibility to follow courses from other Physics, Mathematics, Astronomy and Astrophysics Ph.D. programs in each participating institution, after approval by the Faculty. Courses can be chosen from the following list: VERY HIGH ENERGY PHENOMENA IN ASTROPHYSICS Felix AHARONIAN COSMOLOGICAL SINGULARITY Vladimir BELINSKI RELATIVISTIC EFFECTS IN ASTROPHYSICS Carlo Luciano BIANCO OBSERVERS AND OBSERVABLES IN BLACK HOLES SPACETIME Donato BINI ACCRETIONS ON BLACK HOLES Sandip Kumar CHAKRABARTI PARTICLE PHYSICS APPLIED TO ASTROPHYSICS Pascal CHARDONNET GENERAL RELATIVITY Thibault DAMOUR SUPERNOVAE AND GRBS Massimo DELLA VALLE LARGE SCALE STRUCTURE Jaan EINASTO TOPICS IN COSMOLOGY AND PARTICLE ASTROPHYSICS Li Zhi FANG X/GAMMA-RAY INSTRUMENTATION Filippo FRONTERA HIGH ENERGY ASTROPHYSICS: X-RAYS CLUSTERS Riccardo GIACCONI OBSERVATIONS OF GAMMA-RAY BURSTS Cristiano GUIDORZI FORMATION OF GALAXIES Yipeng JING ON THE KERR SOLUTION Roy KERR RELATIVISTIC FIELD THEORIES Hagen KLEINERT HOLOGRAPHY, ENTROPIC GRAVITY AND COSMOLOGY Li MIAO BOUNCING COSMOLOGY Mario NOVELLO BKL COSMOLOGY AND HIDDEN SYMMETRIES Hermann NICOLAI THE HIGH-ENERGY GAMMA-RAY UNIVERSE Marco TAVANI SPECTRAL TIMING FROM BLACK HOLE SOURCES Lev TITARCHUK SINGULARITIES AND GENERAL RELATIVITY – Kjell ROSQUIST BLACK HOLES AND FUNDAMENTAL PHYSICS Remo RUFFINI RELATIVISTIC KINETIC THEORY Gregory VERESHCHAGIN QED AND ELECTRON-POSITRON PLASMA She-Sheng XUE The Host Institution for the call of 2011-2012 is the Université de Nice-Sophia Antipolis; Grand Château 28 Avenue Valrose 21 – B.P. 2135 – 06103 NICE CEDEX 2 Applications and Fellowships: In the call of September 30, 2011 nine additional fellowships will be available: six with full financial support. See http://www.icra.it and http://www.icranet.org. For further Information please contact: Dr. Carlo Luciano Bianco tel. + 39 06 4991 4 397, secretariat-irapphd[at]icra.it; Dr. Pina Barbaro Université de Nice- Parc Valrose 06108 Nice Cedex, Pina.Barbaro[at]unice.fr The Faculty Giovanni Amelino-Camelia – SAPIENZA Università di Roma Vladimir Belinski – SAPIENZA Università di Roma and ICRANet Carlo Luciano Bianco – SAPIENZA Università di Roma and ICRANet Donato Bini – CNR – Istit. per Applicaz. del Calcolo “M. Picone” Sandip Kumar Chakrabarti – Indian Centre For Space Physics, India Pascal Chardonnet (Erasmus Mundus Coordinator) – Université de Savoie Christian Cherubini – Università “Campus Biomedico” di Roma Pierre Coullet – Université de Nice – Sophie Antipolis Thibault Damour – IHES, Bures-sur-Yvette Jaan Einasto – Tartu Observatory Simonetta Filippi – Univ.“Campus Biomedico” di Roma and ICRANet Sergio Frasca – SAPIENZA Università di Roma Filippo Frontera – Università di Ferrara Yipeng Jing – Shanghai Astronomical Observatory, China Hagen Kleinert – Freie Universitat Berlin Gian Luca Lippi – Université de Nice Sophia-Antipolis Francois Mignard – Observatoire de la Côte d’Azur Hermann Nicolai – Max Planck Inst. for Gravitational Physics, Potsdam Mario Novello – Brazilian Centre For Physics Research, Brazil José Pacheco – Observatoire de la Côte d’Azur Kjell Rosquist – Stockolm University Remo Ruffini (Director) – SAPIENZA Università di Roma and ICRANet Farrokh Vakili – Observatoire de la Côte d’Azur Gregory Vereshchagin – SAPIENZA Università di Roma and ICRANet Xue She Sheng – SAPIENZA Università di Roma and ICRANet ================================================================= 3. News ================================================================= 3.1 Presentations of the 15th Paris Cosmology Colloquium 2011 ------------------------------------------------------------- Announcement on Hyperspace@AEI: http://hyperspace.aei.mpg.de/2011/07/27/presentations-of-the-15th-paris-cos… Additional Information: http://www.chalonge.obspm.fr/colloque2011.html Ecole Internationale d'Astrophysique Daniel Chalonge The 15th Paris Cosmology Colloquium 2011`From Cold Dark Matter to Warm Dark Matter in the Standard Model of the Universe: Theory and Observations'. 20 Years of Activity. 20, 21 and 22 JULY 2011 Paris Observatory (HQ), historic Perrault building, Paris, France We are pleased to inform you that the presentations by the lecturers during the 15th Paris Cosmology Colloquium 2011 are available on line (in pdf format) in "Programme and Lecturers .pdf " in the www site of this Colloquium http://www.chalonge.obspm.fr/colloque2011.html http://www.chalonge.obspm.fr/Programme_Paris2011.html Contents: - The Standard Model of the Universe: CMB present status. PIXIE CMB project - Inflation Effective theory, predictions and observations, Planck results, Atacama Cosmology Telescope. - Last results from Herschel: interstellar medium Initial Mass Function, structures and filaments, Herschel-SPIRES cosmology - Large scale flows. Astrophysical black holes, Re-ionization - Observations of Dark matter on small astrophysical scales, cored density profiles and small baryon feedback - Warm Dark Matter (WDM): Cosmological, astrophysical, numerical and keV particle WDM candidates, sterile neutrinos: theory and observations, neutrino masses and mixing, Neutrinoless Beta decay. Mare and Katrin experiments. - Astrophysical origin of the positron excess in cosmic rays. Helioseismology and Dark Matter Open Special Session: - The Ultra Fast Flash Observatory UFFO - The James Webb Space Telescope JWST The photographs of the Colloquium capturing moments of the stimulating and outstanding atmosphere created by all lecturers and participants during the Colloquium and Open Session will be posted soon in this www site. Norma G Sanchez, Hector J de Vega http://chalonge.obspm.fr +++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++ 3.2 A Statement from the European LISA Study Team ------------------------------------------------- Announcement on Hyperspace@AEI: http://hyperspace.aei.mpg.de/2011/07/21/a-statement-from-the-european-lisa-… Due to the recent adjustment in how L-class missions within the Cosmic Vision framework are chosen, ESA is currently investigating a design for a European-led variant of LISA that can be launched before 2022. After studying several configurations, a new baseline has been identified that will be refined in the coming month with the help of European industry. The new baseline simplifies the design of LISA, reducing the distance between the satellites and employing only four instead of previously six laser links. The science team and a science task force, composed of members of the gravitational wave and astrophysics communities in both Europe and the US, have assessed the scientific validity of the new baseline for the fields of physics, astrophysics and cosmology and have shown that the new configuration is very promising regarding sources such as galactic binaries, (super)massive black hole and extreme mass ratio inspirals. Over the next few months, this work will continue until we have a finalised mission proposal by the fall of 2011. The near future is very bright for astrophysics and cosmology using observations of gravitational waves in space. (Posted on behalf of the team by Bernard Schutz, 21.07.2011) +++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++ 3.3 Living Reviews in Relativity: "Gravitational Wave Detection by Interferometry" (major update) ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Announcement on Hyperspace@AEI: http://hyperspace.aei.mpg.de/2011/07/11/living-reviews-in-relativity-gravit… Additional Information: http://www.livingreviews.org/lrr-2011-5 Today, Living Reviews in Relativity has published a major update of the review "Gravitational Wave Detection by Interferometry (Ground and Space)" by Matthew Pitkin, Stuart Reid, Sheila Rowan, and Jim Hough. Please find the abstract and further details below. ------------------ PUB.NO. lrr-2011-5 Pitkin, Matthew, Reid, Stuart, Rowan, Sheila and Hough, James "Gravitational Wave Detection by Interferometry (Ground and Space)" ACCEPTED: 2011-06-17 PUBLISHED: 2011-07-11 FULL ARTICLE AT: http://www.livingreviews.org/lrr-2011-5 UPDATE: There have been minor updates to Sections 1, 2 and 3; major updates to Sections 4 and 5; Section 6 has been renamed and includes entirely new material on the operation of, and results from, the first generation of gravitational wave detectors and upgrades that are under way; and Section 7 also includes major updates about the status of LISA. The number of references has increased from 110 to 324. ABSTRACT: Significant progress has been made in recent years on the development of gravitational-wave detectors. Sources such as coalescing compact binary systems, neutron stars in low-mass X-ray binaries, stellar collapses and pulsars are all possible candidates for detection. The most promising design of gravitational-wave detector uses test masses a long distance apart and freely suspended as pendulums on Earth or in drag-free spacecraft. The main theme of this review is a discussion of the mechanical and optical principles used in the various long baseline systems in operation around the world - LIGO (USA), Virgo (Italy/France), TAMA300 and LCGT (Japan), and GEO600 (Germany/U.K.) - and in LISA, a proposed space-borne interferometer. A review of recent science runs from the current generation of ground-based detectors will be discussed, in addition to highlighting the astrophysical results gained thus far. Looking to the future, the major upgrades to LIGO (Advanced LIGO), Virgo (Advanced Virgo), LCGT and GEO600 (GEO-HF) will be completed over the coming years, which will create a network of detectors with the significantly improved sensitivity required to detect gravitational waves. Beyond this, the concept and design of possible future "third generation" gravitational-wave detectors, such as the Einstein Telescope (ET), will be discussed. UPCOMING ARTICLES AT: http://relativity.livingreviews.org/Articles/upcoming.html +++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++ 3.4 Quantum Gravity: the first 25 years. Read the focus section published in Classical and Quantum Gravity. ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------ Announcement on Hyperspace@AEI: http://hyperspace.aei.mpg.de/2011/07/05/quantum-gravity-the-first-25-years-… Additional Information: http://iopscience.iop.org/0264-9381/28/15 We invite you to read-for-free the CQG focus section reviewing 25 years of quantum gravity research. http://iopscience.iop.org/0264-9381/28/15 This issue features 2 invited review articles from physicists who have been associated with String Theory and Loop Quantum Gravity from their inception. They were invited to write a retrospective review: What were the initial hopes? To what extent have these hopes been realised? What were the major successes, surprises, disappointments? The emphasis is on what has come OUT of the program rather than technical developments internal to the program. We hope that the reader, whatever her persuasion, will be able to form a panoramic view of quantum gravity research today within these two programmes. Yours sincerely Joseph Samuel Editorial Board Member Classical and Quantum Gravity

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[Hyperspace-list] Hyperspace Bulletin for July 2011
by rezzolla＠aei.mpg.de 02 Jul '11

02 Jul '11

################################################################# Table of Contents ################################################################# 1. Conferences 1.1 Xth International Conference on Gravitation, Astrophysics and Cosmology 1.2 Programming of Heterogeneous Systems in Physics 1.3 Parma Workshop on Numerical Relativity and Gravitational Waves 2011 1.4 El Escorial Summer School 2011 "Quantum Information meets Statistical Mechanics" 1.5 IOP Gravitational Physics Group half-day meeting: Do we understand gravity? 1.6 Numerical Relativity and High Energy Physics 2. Jobs 2.1 Postdoctoral Positions in Gravitational Wave Physics at IISER-TVM 2.2 Postdoc position in Mathematical Physics at Cardiff University 3. News 3.1 Presentations of Meudon Workshop "Warm Dark Matter in the Galaxies" 2011 3.2 Prof. Letelier passed away ================================================================= 1. Conferences ================================================================= 1.1 Xth International Conference on Gravitation, Astrophysics and Cosmology --------------------------------------------------------------------------- Announcement on Hyperspace@AEI: http://hyperspace.aei.mpg.de/2011/06/28/xth-international-conference-on-gra… Starting Sat, Dec 17, 2011 to Thu, Dec 22, 2011 Location: Qui-Nhon, Vietnam Additional Information: http://www.cpt.univ-mrs.fr/~cosmo/ICGAC10/ICGAC10.html ICGAC10 is part of a series of biennial conferences on Gravitation, Astrophysics and Cosmology with the goal to favour cooperations among the member countries within an international context, to promote high level studies on hot topics and to encourage young physicists on these fields. The first meeting was initiated by Prof. Yong Min Cho, one of the founders of the APCTP at SNU in 1993. ICGAC10 is organized with the help of Les Rencontres du Vietnam, whose aim is to help the education and the scientific research in Vietnam. ICGAC10 topics include * Experimental studies of gravity * Quantum gravity * Gravitational waves * Black holes, Wormholes * Strings, Branes and Extra dimensions * Numerical Relativity * Stability of constants * Cosmology, Dark matter, Dark energy * Cosmic rays * Astronomical and space-research instrumentation +++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++ 1.2 Programming of Heterogeneous Systems in Physics --------------------------------------------------- Announcement on Hyperspace@AEI: http://hyperspace.aei.mpg.de/2011/06/24/programming-of-heterogeneous-system… Starting Wed, Oct 05, 2011 to Fri, Oct 07, 2011 Location: Jena, Germany Additional Information: http://wwwsfb.tpi.uni-jena.de/Events/Event-PHSP11.shtml We are pleased to announce a three-day workshop on "Programming of Heterogeneous Systems in Physics", a workshop to be held on 5-7 October 2011 at Friedrich Schiller University, Jena, Germany. http://wwwsfb.tpi.uni-jena.de/Events/Event-PHSP11.shtml This workshop will focus on - Solving partial differential equations efficiently on the heterogeneous computing systems. There is some emphasis on GPU computing, but other accelerators and the efficient use of large multi-core cluster nodes are considered as well. - Optimization of computational kernels coming from finite differences, spectral methods, and lattice gauge theory on accelerators. We plan to have a tutorial day, two days of talks and a poster session. We plan for discussion and talks to provide an overview of current work in these areas, and to develop future lines of research and collaborations. The deadline for submission of talks is 15 August 2011. G. Zumbusch (Chair, Jena), B. Bruegmann (Jena), A. Weyhausen (Jena), L. Rezzolla (Potsdam), B. Zink (Tuebingen) +++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++ 1.3 Parma Workshop on Numerical Relativity and Gravitational Waves 2011 ----------------------------------------------------------------------- Announcement on Hyperspace@AEI: http://hyperspace.aei.mpg.de/2011/06/22/parma-workshop-on-numerical-relativ… Starting Wed, Sep 07, 2011 to Fri, Sep 09, 2011 Location: Parma, Italy Additional Information: http://www.fis.unipr.it/numrel/WorkshopNumRel11/ We are pleased to announce that a three-day workshop on Numerical Relativity and Gravitational Waves will be held at the "Centro S. Elisabetta" of the University of Parma, organized by the local numerical relativity group and with the support of INFN and the University of Parma. The workshop is mainly aimed at bringing together European scientists working in the field, for discussing "hot" topics, share ideas, and establish future lines of research and collaborations. The character of the meeting will be informal and relaxed in order to encourage open discussions. Talks will cover a quite broad area: binary black holes and neutron stars simulations, mathematical advances, computational methods, and interface between numerical and analytical methods. For further details see: http://www.fis.unipr.it/numrel/WorkshopNumRel11/ +++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++ 1.4 El Escorial Summer School 2011 "Quantum Information meets Statistical Mechanics" ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------ Announcement on Hyperspace@AEI: http://hyperspace.aei.mpg.de/2011/06/08/el-escorial-summer-school-2011-quan… Starting Mon, Jul 11, 2011 to Fri, Jul 15, 2011 Location: El Escorial (Madrid), Spain Additional Information: http://www.ucm.es/info/giccucm/Escorial2011/ From 11th to 15th of July 2011, the Universidad Complutense of Madrid (Spain), will host a Summer School on "Quantum Information meets Statistical Mechanics" (QI&SM 2011), with the aim of exploring interfaces and emerging connections between these and related fields. For more information, please visit our website: http://www.ucm.es/info/giccucm/Escorial2011/ The Summer School will take place at El Escorial, Spain (http://www.euroforum.es/) a nice and historic city about 50 km to the north of Madrid. See further information below and in the website. The whole activity will focus primarily on the following topics: 1. One-Way Quantum Computation and Statistical Mechanics 2. Topological Codes and Statistical Models 3. Random Statistical Mechanical Systems and Lattice Gauge Theories 4. Quantum Information and Models of Discrete Quantum Gravity We would be glad to have you and share with us these new developments in an interactive an open atmosphere. Thank you and best wishes, The organizers: Miguel A. Martin-Delgado (UCM) and Hans J. Briegel (IQOQI, Innsbruck) FURTHER INFORMATION The goal of the school is to bring together scholars from quantum information theory and statistical mechanics to explore emerging connections between these fields and hopefully develop some fruitful collaborations. The (incomplete) list of invited speakers whom we are contacting for the conference includes the following names: Maarten Van den Nest Gemma De las Cuevas Robert Raussendorf Helmut Katzgraber Hector Bombin A. Peter Young John T. Chalker Uwe-Jens Wiese Tomotoshi Nishino Paolo Fachi Renate Loll Silke Weinfurtner Fotini Markopoulou Rafael Sorkin and others The Complutense University has been holding summer courses at El Escorial since 1988 and these are given by eminent lecturers worldwide. We have been awarded the organization of one of those courses, which we want to devote to "Quantum Information meets Statistical Mechanics". Allow us to give you some more information about the Summer Courses held at El Escorial and organized by the Complutense University (Madrid, Spain). In 1988, the Complutense University decided to open its doors to the most advanced knowledge in the present time and to tend a bridge between science, culture, literature etc... and the Spanish society. With this broad aim and scope, the Courses are born during each summer, organized by the General Foundation of the University. They have become an annual showcase of new knowledge and a forum of exchange of information and opinions based on the plurality and the diffusion of the advances in all the scientific areas: Mathematics, Physics, Chemistry, Biology and also beyond natural sciences: Literature, Scenic Arts, etc... The Courses are, by their rigor and the ample scope of subjects treated every year, a reference for mass media and the Spanish society. Thus, the University satisfies in this way the necessities not covered in ordinary winter courses. In the Summer Courses, the lecturers are specialists of maximum level, even Nobel prizewinners in their fields. They are accessible to the students/attendees, who can discuss with them inside and outside the classes. The speakers themselves find here an excellent opportunity for the interchange of experiences that enrich their research and professional activity. Each Course lasts an average of five days, and it is developed in conferences and occasionally in round-tables. As a complement, all the nights takes place an activity of Scenic Arts, or a concert, a play at a theater or a movie show which is free for the speakers. More information about the courses can be found at the following link: http://www.ucm.es/info/cv/ +++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++ 1.5 IOP Gravitational Physics Group half-day meeting: Do we understand gravity? ------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Announcement on Hyperspace@AEI: http://hyperspace.aei.mpg.de/2011/06/06/iop-gravitational-physics-group-hal… Starting Fri, Sep 16, 2011 to Fri, Sep 16, 2011 Location: London, UK Additional Information: http://www.srcf.ucam.org/~or215/gpg2011/ Friday, 16 September 2011, 2:00pm - 5:45pm Phillips Room, Institute of Physics, 76 Portland Place, London W1B 1NT, UK Keynote speaker: Mihalis Dafermos, University of Cambridge This half-day meeting will focus on the mathematical aspects of relativity, and PhD students and postdoctoral fellows are encouraged to present their work. IOP Gravitational Physics Group members and other interested individuals are welcome to attend but pre-registration is required as the number of people that we can accommodate at the venue is limited. No registration fee will be charged. Please see http://www.srcf.ucam.org/~or215/gpg2011/ for further details. Organising committee: Nils Andersson, University of Southampton David Burton, Lancaster University Oliver Rinne, University of Cambridge (contact: O.Rinne[AT]damtp.cam.ac.uk) Bangalore Sathyaprakash, Cardiff University Juan Valiente-Kroon, Queen Mary, University of London Registration deadlines: 2 Sep 2011 Abstract submission 9 Sep 2011 Participation +++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++ 1.6 Numerical Relativity and High Energy Physics ------------------------------------------------ Announcement on Hyperspace@AEI: http://hyperspace.aei.mpg.de/2011/06/02/numerical-relativity-and-high-energ… Starting Wed, Aug 31, 2011 to Sat, Sep 03, 2011 Location: Madeira, Portugal Additional Information: http://blackholes.ist.utl.pt/nrhep/ 31 August - 3 September, 2011 Madeira Island (Portugal) The aim of this workshop is to bring together world experts in two extremely active and successful, but up to now essentially disjoint, research fields: numerical relativity and high energy physics. It has become clear that numerical relativity techniques, applied to black hole systems, could answer central questions concerning dynamical processes in high energy physics. Such techniques, which only very recently have reached a state of sufficient maturity, seem moreover mandatory for an accurate phenomenological modelling of these high energy physics scenarios. These facts, together with the ongoing scientific runs at the LHC, make this workshop very timely. Organizers: Vitor Cardoso, Leonardo Gualtieri, Carlos Herdeiro, Ulrich Sperhake ================================================================= 2. Jobs ================================================================= 2.1 Postdoctoral Positions in Gravitational Wave Physics at IISER-TVM --------------------------------------------------------------------- Announcement on Hyperspace@AEI: http://hyperspace.aei.mpg.de/2011/06/30/postdoctoral-positions-in-gravitati… Institution: Thiruvananthapuram, India Deadline: Sun, Jul 31, 2011 Institution: Indian Institute of Science Education and Research Thiruvananthapuram, India (IISER-TVM) Deadline: 31 July 2011 Salary: Rs. 2,64,000 - Rs. 2,88,000 per annum IISER-TVM seeks applicants for two Post-doctoral positions in the area of Gravitational Wave Physics. Both these positions are funded under the Max Planck Partner Group on Gravitational Wave Physics of Albert Einstein Institute (AEI). The positions will focus on developing advanced Gravitational Wave search algorithms for advanced/future interferometric detectors. The appointments are for two years and are expected to commence on or before September 1, 2011. Candidates with expertise/interest in general relativity, gravitational wave astronomy, and statistical signal processing are encouraged to apply. Candidates must hold a Ph.D. in Physics, Astrophysics or related areas. Candidate with Ph.D. in Engineering faculty with adequate experience in statistical signal processing may be considered. IISER-TVM is an active member of IndIGO (Indian Initiative in Gravitational Wave Observatories) consortium. The selected candidate would get an opportunity to work closely with the AEI members as well as members of IndIGO consortium. Please send via e-mail as a single PDF (1) CV with the list of publications, and (2) detailed research statement. Arrange for 2 letters of recommendation to be sent to archana[at]iisertvm.ac.in with the subject "Application for MP-PG positions - Candidate name". To receive full consideration, applications should be received by July 31, 2011. Applications will continued to be screened until the positions are filled. Informal inquires may be directed to Archana Pai (e-mail: archana[at]iisertvm.ac.in, phone: +91-471-2599423) +++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++ 2.2 Postdoc position in Mathematical Physics at Cardiff University ------------------------------------------------------------------ Announcement on Hyperspace@AEI: http://hyperspace.aei.mpg.de/2011/06/02/postdoc-position-in-mathematical-ph… Institution: Cardiff, UK Deadline: Mon, Jul 04, 2011 Additional Information: http://www.cardiff.ac.uk/jobs/maths/research-associate-in-mathematical-phys… Reference: 2011/0263 Closing date: 04 July 2011 Type: Academic Duration: Fixed-term for 2 years Hours of work: Full-time, 35 hours per week Date of appointment: Post is available immediately Salary: £29927 - £35788 per annum (Grade 6) You will carry out research related to the mathematical underpinning of the theory of quantized fields, including field theories on curved backgrounds. A background in one or more areas of theoretical physics/mathematics related to this topic such as elementary particle theory, conformal field theory, perturbative/constructive approaches to quantum field theory, or string theory is desirable. ================================================================= 3. News ================================================================= 3.1 Presentations of Meudon Workshop "Warm Dark Matter in the Galaxies" 2011 ---------------------------------------------------------------------------- Announcement on Hyperspace@AEI: http://hyperspace.aei.mpg.de/2011/06/16/presentations-of-meudon-workshop-wa… Additional Information: http://www.chalonge.obspm.fr/Cias_Meudon2011.html Ecole Internationale d'Astrophysique Daniel Chalonge Meudon Workshop 2011 "Warm Dark Matter in the Galaxies: Theoretical and Observational Progresses", 8-10 June 2011 We are pleased to inform you that the presentations by the lecturers during the Chalonge Meudon Warm Dark Matter Workshop 2011 are available online (in pdf format) on the web site of this workshop: http://www.chalonge.obspm.fr/Cias_Meudon2011.html http://www.chalonge.obspm.fr/Programme_CIAS2011.html Contents: Astrophysical, cosmological and particle WDM, Lambda WDM, Theory, Observations, Numerical simulations, Particle WDM, sterile neutrinos, sterile neutrino experiments. The photographs of the Workshop capturing moments of the stimulating and outstanding atmosphere created by all lecturers and participants during the Workshop will be posted soon. We thank all again, both lecturers and participants, for having contributed so much to this Workshop and we look forward to seeing you again in the next Warm Dark Matter Meeting 2012 of this series. With compliments and kind regards Norma G Sanchez, Hector J. de Vega http://chalonge.obspm.fr +++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++ 3.2 Prof. Letelier passed away ------------------------------ Announcement on Hyperspace@AEI: http://hyperspace.aei.mpg.de/2011/06/14/prof-letelier-passed-away/ Additional Information: http://leteliermemorial.blogspot.com/ Prof. Patricio Anibal Letelier Sotomayor, born in Santiago, Chile, on the 11th September, 1943, passed away due to a cardiac arrest at his home in Campinas, SP, Brazil, on Thursday, June 9, 2011. Prof. Letelier was a highly respected teacher and mentor to an enormous number of people in the country and around the world. He did his undergraduate studies in the University of Chile in the late sixties and obtained his Ph.D. in Physics from Boston University in 1977. He then joined the Department of Physics of the University of Brasilia and, in 1988, he left Brasilia and came to the Department of Applied Mathematics of the University of Campinas as a Professor of Mathematical Physics. Patricio was a beloved friend and colleague, and his passing is a huge loss on so many levels. He will be greatly missed and remembered always. He is survived by his wife, daughter, son, and granddaughter. The website below is a homage to Prof. Patricio Letelier. Please visit it and feel free to express your fond remembrances of him and his work. The remembrances will be collected and passed on to Prof. Letelier's family. http://leteliermemorial.blogspot.com/ -- Alberto Saa Department of Applied Mathematics, UNICAMP, Campinas, SP, Brazil. Phone: +55 19 3521 5952 http://vigo.ime.unicamp.br

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[Hyperspace-list] Hyperspace Bulletin for June 2011
by hyperspace＠aei.mpg.de 02 Jun '11

02 Jun '11

################################################################# Table of Contents ################################################################# 1. Conferences 1.1 Vorticity on Different Scales: from the Cosmological to the Microscopic 1.2 7th International Conference on Gravitation and Cosmology (3rd announcement) 1.3 IRAP PhD and Erasmus Mundus Workshop - Gamma Ray Bursts, their progenitors and the role of thermal emission 2. Jobs 2.1 Post-doctoral position at the University of Guelph 2.2 Senior Lecturer and Lecturer at Rhodes University (2 positions) in Mathematics (Pure and Applied) 3. News 3.1 Amaldi/NRDA Conference: upcoming deadlines 3.2 Living Reviews in Relativity: "Analogue Gravity" and "The Einstein-Vlasov System/Kinetic Theory" (updates) 3.3 Invited papers from GR19 now free-to-read in Classical and Quantum Gravity 3.4 2011 Gravitational Physics Group Thesis Prize sponsored by Classical and Quantum Gravity 3.5 Gravity Research Foundation Awards for Essays, 2011 ================================================================= 1. Conferences ================================================================= 1.1 Vorticity on Different Scales: from the Cosmological to the Microscopic ---------------------------------------------------------------------------- Announcement on Hyperspace@AEI: http://hyperspace.aei.mpg.de/2011/05/27/vorticity-on-different-scales-from-… Starting Thu, Jul 14, 2011 to Thu, Jul 14, 2011 Location: London, UK Additional Information: https://wiki.maths.qmul.ac.uk/twiki/bin/view/CosmologyAndRelativity/Vortici… We are pleased to announce a half-day meeting on `Vorticity on Different Scales' to be held at the Royal Astronomical Society, Burlington House on Thursday 14th July from 1pm. The aim of this meeting is to encourage discussion between scientists from different disciplines studying vorticity in different settings. To this end, there will be invited talks on cosmology, superfluids in neutron stars, planetary astronomy and cold atomic physics (provisionally). After these talks there will be a mini-workshop and discussion. Attendance at the meeting will be free, and there will be limited travel support for young researchers based outside London. Participants are encouraged to bring along posters on their vorticity research and related topics which will be displayed during the meeting. If you are interested in attending, please email the organisers (addresses below) so we have an idea of the numbers of participants to expect. Since the room capacity is limited, early acknowledgement of attendance is encouraged. Please state in your email if you require travel support. This meeting is sponsored by the IoP gravitational physics group, and the Astronomy Unit, QMUL. Slightly more information is on the meeting website: https://wiki.maths.qmul.ac.uk/twiki/bin/view/CosmologyAndRelativity/Vortici… Best, Adam Christopherson (a.christopherson[AT]qmul.ac.uk) Cesar Lopez-Monsalvo (cslm1x07[AT]soton.ac.uk) Karim Malik (k.malik[AT]qmul.ac.uk) +++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++ 1.2 7th International Conference on Gravitation and Cosmology (3rd announcement) -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Announcement on Hyperspace@AEI: http://hyperspace.aei.mpg.de/2011/05/26/7th-international-conference-on-gra… Starting Wed, Dec 14, 2011 to Mon, Dec 19, 2011 Location: Goa, India Additional Information: http://www.tifr.res.in/~icgc2011 International Center for Theoretical Sciences Tata Institute of Fundamental Research and Indian Association for General Relativity and Gravitation This is the third and final announcement for ICGC2011. Please note that one cannot register in August without first pre-registering, on or before 30th June, 2011. The conference programme consists of: [A] 19 Plenary Talks [Eric Adelberger, Dipankar Bhattacharya, J. R. Bond, Francois Bouchet, Mihalis Dafermos, John Ellis, Gary Horowitz, Robert Kirshner, Luis Lehner, Shiraz Minwalla, Priyamvada Natarajan, Jim Peebles, Bernard Schutz, Masaru Shibata, Rafael Sorkin, Alexei Starobinsky, Kip Thorne, David Wands, Stan Whitcomb] [B] An evening Lecture by Abhay Ashtekar [C] Three parallel sessions for contributed talks/posters: Classical general relativity and gravitational waves [Sukanta Bose and Sanjay Jhingan]; Cosmology [Eiichiro Komatsu and L. Sriramkumar]; Quantum Gravity and Early Universe [Justin David and Shinji Mukohyama] [D] Three dedicated mini-sessions on: Gravity as an emergent phenomenon [T. Padmanabhan]; Dark Energy [Varun Sahni]; Gravitational-wave astronomy [B. S. Sathyaprakash] +++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++ 1.3 IRAP PhD and Erasmus Mundus Workshop - Gamma Ray Bursts, their progenitors and the role of thermal emission --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Announcement on Hyperspace@AEI: http://hyperspace.aei.mpg.de/2011/05/23/irap-phd-and-erasmus-mundus-worksho… Starting Sun, Oct 02, 2011 to Fri, Oct 07, 2011 Location: Les Houches, France Additional Information: http://www.icranet.org/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=602 The workshop is promoted by ICRANet within the International Relativistic Astrophysics Ph. D. Program (IRAP Ph D) and the ERASMUS MUNDUS activities. Lectures will be presented by leading Physicists and Astrophysicists working in the theory and observations of Gamma Ray Bursts, Supernovae as well as in the interface of Nuclear Physics, White Dwarfs, Neutron Star Physics and Black Holes Physics. Special attention is being devoted to the Gamma Ray Bursts and their progenitors and to the role of the thermal emission. Invited lecturers include: Amati Lorenzo, Antonelli Angelo, Baranov Andrey, Beloborodov Andrei, Berger Edo, Bianco Carlo L., Boer Michel, Campana Sergio, Chakrabarti Sandip, Costa Enrico, Covino Stefano, Dai Zigao, D'Avanzo Paolo, Della Valle Massimo, Frontera Filippo, Ghirlanda Giancarlo, Giannios Dimitrios, Giommi Paolo, Guidorzi Cristiano, Guiriec Sylvain, Ioka Kunihito, Lou Yuqing, Malesani Daniele, Mazzali Paolo A., Pe'er Asaf, Pian Elena, Piran Tsvi, Popov Mikhail, Poutanen Juri, Rueda Jorge A., Ryde Felix, Salvaterra Ruben, Tagliaferri Gianpiero, Tavani Marco, Valenti Stefano, Vereshchagin Gregory, Vurm Indrek, Wang Xiang-Yu, Xue She-Sheng, Zhang Bing The registration fee is 350€ and it includes accommodation, lunches, dinners, coffee breaks and the proceedings publication. Proceedings will be published by World Scientific Pub. in their Astrophysical Series. You can find information on how to reach Les Houches on the website: the nearest airport is the Geneva one, that is 1 hour drive, then there are many public and private shuttle services from the airport to the conference location. As regards accommodation, there are 70 chalets in the school: they are single-rooms with toilet facilities. If you are interested in booking one of them, please send an email to annapia.delbeato[at]icranet.org with information on your name, surname, age and sex. You can settle into your room from 6pm on Sunday evening; you should leave your room on Friday morning, after breakfast. ================================================================= 2. Jobs ================================================================= 2.1 Post-doctoral position at the University of Guelph ------------------------------------------------------ Announcement on Hyperspace@AEI: http://hyperspace.aei.mpg.de/2011/05/18/post-doctoral-position-at-the-unive… Institution: Guelph, ON, Canada Deadline: Wed, Jun 15, 2011 Additional Information: http://www.physics.uoguelph.ca/ A post-doctoral position is available within the Gravitation Group of the University of Guelph, to start in September 2011. This position is for a duration of two years, with a possibility of renewal for a third year. The Guelph Gravitation Group consists of two faculty members, Luis Lehner and Eric Poisson, at least one post-doctoral fellow, and a number of graduate students. Research interests include computational relativity and astrophysics, the physics of black holes, gravitational waves, and the gravitational self-force. The group enjoys close ties with Perimeter Institute for Theoretical Physics and the Canadian Institute for Theoretical Astrophysics, and we also have a wide network of international collaborators. We are looking for an exceptional researcher who will work with us in a stimulating scientific environment. Preference might be given to persons already actively working in the research areas listed previously, but candidates working in closely related areas are also encouraged to apply. The interested candidate should submit (i) a curriculum vitae, (ii) a list of publications, (iii) a statement of research interests, and (iv) have three letters of recommendation sent to the address appearing below. Consideration of these applications will begin on June 15th, 2011, and will continue until the position is filled. Applications should be sent via e-mail. For more information on the Department of Physics at the University of Guelph, please consult the Department's home page at http://www.physics.uoguelph.ca/. For more information on the Guelph Gravitation Group, please consult the websites http://www.physics.uoguelph.ca/poisson/research/ and http://www.phys.lsu.edu/dept/people/lehner.html. All applications should be sent to: Luis Lehner Department of Physics University of Guelph Guelph, Ontario, N1G 2W1, Canada. llehner[at]pitp.ca +++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++ 2.2 Senior Lecturer and Lecturer at Rhodes University (2 positions) in Mathematics (Pure and Applied) ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Announcement on Hyperspace@AEI: http://hyperspace.aei.mpg.de/2011/05/04/senior-lecturer-and-lecturer-at-rho… Institution: Grahamstown, South Africa Additional Information: http://www.ru.ac.za/jobs/currentvacancies/academic/mathematics The Department of Mathematics of Rhodes University has two vacancies, one at Senior Lecturer level and another one Lecturer level. One of the appointments will be in Applied Mathematics, and the other will be in either Applied Mathematics or in Pure Mathematics. It is essential that prospective candidates read the further particulars relating to this post and that all relevant documentation is submitted. Failure to submit such documentation will result in an application not being considered. Candidates at Senior Lecturer level should have: A PhD in Mathematics or Applied Mathematics, and have a solid record of publications in accredited journals. They should also have experience in teaching at the undergraduate and post-graduate level in Mathematics or Applied Mathematics, or for those with work experience largely in a research environment some teaching experience. Candidates at Lecturer level should have: At least an MSc in Mathematics, together with evidence of being on track towards obtaining a doctoral degree. Some teaching or tutoring experience in Mathematics or Applied Mathematics is a requirement. To Apply: First, please obtain the further particulars, application form, etc., from http://www.ru.ac.za/jobs/currentvacancies/academic/mathematics. Please email your completed application form, accompanied by a substantial letter of motivation, curriculum vitae, academic transcripts and copies of certificates to: jobs-yellow[AT]ru.ac.za ================================================================= 3. News ================================================================= 3.1 Amaldi/NRDA Conference: upcoming deadlines ---------------------------------------------- Announcement on Hyperspace@AEI: http://hyperspace.aei.mpg.de/2011/05/31/amaldi-nrda-conference-upcoming-dea… Additional Information: http://www.amaldi9.org/ Amaldi/NRDA early registration deadline extension: June 2 The early registration deadline for the 9th Edoardo Amaldi Conference and Numerical Relativity - Data Analysis workshop (Cardiff, 10-15 July 2011) has been extended to the end of Thursday June 2cd (UK time). To qualify for the reduced registration fee, payment should be paid by that time. Other upcoming deadlines are abstract submission (10 June), and late registration is (17 June). Please note that recent network difficulties at Cardiff University have required us to change the IP address for the conference website. If you have access difficulties with the standard URL (http://www.amaldi9.org/) then you can access the website directly here: https://131.251.184.42/Jooma Please contact amaldi[AT]astro.cf.ac.uk for more information. We look forward to seeing you in Cardiff. Best regards, -- Patrick Sutton for the Amaldi LOC & NRDA SOC amaldi[AT]astro.cf.ac.uk http://www.amaldi9.org/ https://131.251.184.42/Jooma +++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++ 3.2 Living Reviews in Relativity: "Analogue Gravity" and "The Einstein-Vlasov System/Kinetic Theory" (updates) -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Announcement on Hyperspace@AEI: http://hyperspace.aei.mpg.de/2011/05/27/living-reviews-in-relativity-analog… Additional Information: http://relativity.livingreviews.org/ This month, Living Reviews in Relativity has published two major updates of the reviews "The Einstein-Vlasov System/Kinetic Theory" by Håkan Andréasson and "Analogue Gravity" by Carlos Barceló, Stefano Liberati and Matt Visser. Both articles substantially revise previous versions from 2005. Please find the abstract and further details below. ------------------ PUB.NO. lrr-2011-4 Andréasson, Håkan "The Einstein-Vlasov System/Kinetic Theory" ACCEPTED: 2011-05-06 PUBLISHED: 2011-05-27 FULL ARTICLE AT: http://www.livingreviews.org/lrr-2011-4 UPDATE: This is a revised and updated version of the article from 2005. A number of new sections on the Einstein-Vlasov system have been added, e.g., on the formation of black holes and trapped surfaces, on self-similar solutions, on the structure of static solutions, on Buchdahl type inequalities, on the stability of cosmological solutions, and on axisymmetric solutions. Some of the previous sections have been significantly extended. The number of references has increased from 121 to 197. ABSTRACT: The main purpose of this article is to provide a guide to theorems on global properties of solutions to the Einstein–Vlasov system. This system couples Einstein's equations to a kinetic matter model. Kinetic theory has been an important field of research during several decades in which the main focus has been on non-relativistic and special relativistic physics, i.e., to model the dynamics of neutral gases, plasmas, and Newtonian self-gravitating systems. In 1990, Rendall and Rein initiated a mathematical study of the Einstein–Vlasov system. Since then many theorems on global properties of solutions to this system have been established. This paper gives introductions to kinetic theory in non-curved spacetimes and then the Einstein–Vlasov system is introduced. We believe that a good understanding of kinetic theory in non-curved spacetimes is fundamental to a good comprehension of kinetic theory in general relativity. ------------------ PUB.NO. lrr-2011-3 Barceló Serón, Carlos and Liberati, Stefano and Visser, Matt "Analogue Gravity" ACCEPTED: 2011-02-28 PUBLISHED: 2011-05-11 FULL ARTICLE AT: http://www.livingreviews.org/lrr-2011-3 UPDATE: Completely revised and updated previous version. Significantly extended Sections 2.4, 3, 4.1, 4.2, 5, and 7. Introduced new Section 6. Eight new figures have been added. The number of references increased from 434 to 702. ABSTRACT: Analogue gravity is a research programme which investigates analogues of general relativistic gravitational fields within other physical systems, typically but not exclusively condensed matter systems, with the aim of gaining new insights into their corresponding problems. Analogue models of (and for) gravity have a long and distinguished history dating back to the earliest years of general relativity. In this review article we will discuss the history, aims, results, and future prospects for the various analogue models. We start the discussion by presenting a particularly simple example of an analogue model, before exploring the rich history and complex tapestry of models discussed in the literature. The last decade in particular has seen a remarkable and sustained development of analogue gravity ideas, leading to some hundreds of published articles, a workshop, two books, and this review article. Future prospects for the analogue gravity programme also look promising, both on the experimental front (where technology is rapidly advancing) and on the theoretical front (where variants of analogue models can be used as a springboard for radical attacks on the problem of quantum gravity). UPCOMING ARTICLES AT: http://relativity.livingreviews.org/Articles/upcoming.html +++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++ 3.3 Invited papers from GR19 now free-to-read in Classical and Quantum Gravity ------------------------------------------------------------------------------ Announcement on Hyperspace@AEI: http://hyperspace.aei.mpg.de/2011/05/24/invited-papers-from-gr19-now-free-t… Additional Information: http://iopscience.iop.org/0264-9381/28/11 Selected articles from the 19th International Conference on General Relativity and Gravitation (GR19) are now published and free-to-read in Classical and Quantum Gravity (CQG). I invite you to browse the collection: http://iopscience.iop.org/0264-9381/28/11 The GR19 conference covered all of the broad range of subjects in the scope of CQG. Hyperspace readers are therefore certain to find high quality work in the issue relevant to their own interests. I take this opportunity to thank all authors, referees and particularly the guest editors, Profs D Marolf and D Sudarsky for all of their hard work which contributed to making this outstanding special issue possible. Yours sincerely Adam Day Publisher Classical and Quantum Gravity cqg[AT]iop.org +++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++ 3.4 2011 Gravitational Physics Group Thesis Prize sponsored by Classical and Quantum Gravity -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Announcement on Hyperspace@AEI: http://hyperspace.aei.mpg.de/2011/05/19/2011-gravitational-physics-group-th… Additional Information: http://gp.iop.org/ Closing date for nominations: 31 October 2011 The 2011 Gravitational Physics Group Thesis Prize, sponsored by Classical and Quantum Gravity (CQG), will be made for excellence in postgraduate research and communication skills in gravitational physics. All members of the IOP Gravitational Physics Group who passed their PhD viva voce exam between 30 September 2009 and 1 October 2010 are entitled to enter the competition. The winner will be awarded £500 and they will be invited to submit a paper to CQG based on the winning thesis which, if accepted, will be made a ’select article’ in CQG. Furthermore, the winner will be given the opportunity to present their work at one of the UK BritGrav meetings. Anyone (student or otherwise) can nominate a candidate (including the candidate themselves). If you have someone in mind, please send an email to the IOP Gravitational Physics Group secretary (David Burton at d.burton-at-lancaster.ac.uk) containing the candidate’s contact details and the committee will encourage them to enter the competition. The candidate must be a member of the IOP Gravitational Physics Group, and will be asked to provide their IOP membership number. Please note that the student’s external PhD examiner must be willing to comment on the student’s research, quality of the student’s thesis and the student’s ability to cogently communicate their work (evidenced by their viva performance and/or seminars). Students are advised to consult their external examiner before entering the competition. For information on how to enter the competition please click ‘Group Prize’ on the IOP Gravitational Physics Group web page http://gp.iop.org/ +++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++ 3.5 Gravity Research Foundation Awards for Essays, 2011 ------------------------------------------------------- Announcement on Hyperspace@AEI: http://hyperspace.aei.mpg.de/2011/05/16/gravity-research-foundation-awards-… Additional Information: http://www.gravityresearchfoundation.org/ The trustees are pleased to announce the Awards for Essays for 2011. 1. $4,000 - Stimulated Creation of Quanta during Inflation and the Observable Universe by Ivan Agullo (1) and Leonard Parker (2), (1) Institute for Gravitation and the Cosmos, Physics Department, Penn State, University Park, PA 16802-6300, (2) Physics Department, University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee, P.O. Box 413, Milwaukee, WI 53201; e-mail: agullo[at]gravity.psu.edu leonard[at]uwm.edu 2. $1,250 - Relative Locality: A Deepening of the Relativity Principle by Giovanni Amelino-Camelia (1), Laurent Freidel (2), Jerzy Kowalski-Glikman (3), and Lee Smolin2, (1) Dipartimento di Fisica, Universita' "La Sapienza" and Sez. Roma1 INFN P. le A. Moro 2, 00185 Roma, Italy, (2) Perimeter Institute for Theoretical Physics , 31 Caroline Street North, Waterloo, Ontario N2J 2Y5, Canada, (3) Institute for Theoretical Physics, University of Wroclaw, Pl. Maxa Borna 9, 50-204 Wroclaw, Poland; e-mail: amelino[at]roma1.infn.it lfreidel[at]perimeterinstitute.ca jkowalskiglikman[at]ift.uni.wroc.pl lsmolin[at]perimeterinstitute.ca 3. $1,000 - The Value of the Cosmological Constant by John D. Barrow and Douglas J. Shaw, DAMTP, Centre for Mathematical Sciences, Cambridge University, Cambridge CB3 0WA, United Kingdom; e-mail: J.D.Barrow[at]damtp.cam.ac.uk D.Shaw[at]damtp.cam.ac.uk 4. $750 - Losing Information outside the Horizon by Samir D. Mathur, Department of Physics, The Ohio State University, Columbus OH, 43210; e-mail: mathur[at]mps.ohio-state.edu 5. $500 - Quantum Gravity and Dark Matter by Chiu Man Ho (1), Djordje Minic (2), and Y. Jack Ng (3), (1) Department of Physics and Astronomy, Vanderbilt University, Nashville, TN 37235, (2) Department of Physics, Virginia Tech, Blacksburg, VA 24061, (3) Institute of Field Physics, Department of Physics and Astronomy, University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill, NC 27599; e-mail: chiuman.ho[at]vanderbilt.edu dminic[at]vt.edu yjng[at]physics.unc.edu Selected for Honorable Mention this year were (listed in alphabetical order) Olga V. Babourova and Boris N. Frolov; B. J. Carr and A. A. Coley; Naresh Dadhich; Scott Dodelson; Chris Done; Arthur E. Fischer; Rodolfo Gambini, Jorge Pullin, and Saeed Rastgoo; Daniel Grumiller and Florian Preis; E. I. Guendelman; L Herrera; Shahar Hod; L. P. Horwitz, A. Yahalom, M. Lewkowicz, and J. Levitan; Ali Kaya; H. Kleinert; Kazuya Koyama, Gustavo Niz, and Gianmassimo Tasinato; Ishwaree P. Neupane; Julio Oliva and Sourya Ray; T. Padmanabhan; Giandomenico Palumbo; Antonio Enea Romano and Pisin Chen; Gustavo E. Romero and Daniela Perez; M. M. Sheikh-Jabbari; C. Sivaram; N. C. Tsamis and R. P. Woodard; C. S. Unnikrishnan and G. T. Gillies. This announcement and abstracts of award-winning and honorable mention essays will be posted when ready on our web site, http://www.gravityresearchfoundation.org. The five award-winning essays will be published in the Journal of General Relativity and Gravitation (GRG) and subsequently, in a special issue of the International Journal of Modern Physics D (IJMPD). They will also be posted at a later date on our web site. Roger W. Babson, Founder George M. Rideout, Jr., President GRAVITY RESEARCH FOUNDATION PO BOX 81389 WELLESLEY HILLS MA 02481-0004 USA

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[Hyperspace-list] Hyperspace Bulletin for May 2011
by hyperspace＠aei.mpg.de 02 May '11

02 May '11

################################################################# Table of Contents ################################################################# 1. Conferences 1.1 6th Gulf Coast Gravity Meeting (2nd announcement) 1.2 Astrophysics and gravitational waves meeting in Mallorca 2. Jobs 2.1 Postdoc position in Gravitation, Astrophysics, Cosmology or Astroparticle Physics at Santander Univ., Colombia 2.2 PhD Position in Theoretical Physics at Stockholm University 2.3 Postdoctoral position in cosmology at University of Oslo 2.4 Lecturers in Mathematical Physics at University of Southampton 2.5 Postdoc Position in Dynamics of Relativistic Magnetised Flows 2.6 Postdoc position in numerical relativity at University of Burgundy 2.7 W2-Professorship in Theoretical Physics at University of Erlangen-Nuremberg 3. News 3.1 2010 GWIC Thesis Prize ================================================================= 1. Conferences ================================================================= 1.1 6th Gulf Coast Gravity Meeting (2nd announcement) ----------------------------------------------------- Announcement on Hyperspace@AEI: http://hyperspace.aei.mpg.de/2011/04/13/6th-gulf-coast-gravity-meeting-2nd-… Starting Sun, May 15, 2011 to Mon, May 16, 2011 Location: Boca Raton, FL, USA Additional Information: http://www.physics.fau.edu/events_news/GCGM6/GCGM6.php This is the 2nd announcement of the 6th Gulf Coast Gravity Meeting, which will be held May 15-16 at Florida Atlantic University in Boca Raton, Florida. Researchers in all areas of gravitational physics, including numerical, experimental, classical and quantum gravity, as well as related astrophysics and cosmology will be in attendance. This is an informal regional meeting, and most participants will be from the Gulf Coast area of the United States, but all outside of this region who wish to attend are more than welcome. A prize of $200 (sponsored by the APS Topical Group on Gravity) will be awarded for the best talk given by a student at the meeting. Additionally, funds are available to support student travel through an event grant of the Oak Ridge Associated Universities. The registration simply consists in sending an email to jonathan.engle[AT]fau.edu with a title and short abstract if it is desired to give a talk, preferably by May 8th. Please indicate in the email whether the participant is a student. A current list of registered participants may be found at the website http://www.physics.fau.edu/events_news/GCGM6/GCGM6.php . Hotel reservations should be made by participants themselves. We have reserved a block of rooms at the Fairfield Inn & Suites Boca Raton under the name ``6th Gulf Coast Gravity Meeting’’ with a special negotiated rate of $69 per night. The phone number and address for the hotel are: 561-417-8585, 3400 Airport Road, Boca Raton, FL 33431. The room block will be released on April 30th. Recommended airports for arrival are Palm Beach International Airport and Fort Lauderdale International Airport. Miami International Airport is also possible but farther away. +++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++ 1.2 Astrophysics and gravitational waves meeting in Mallorca ------------------------------------------------------------ Announcement on Hyperspace@AEI: http://hyperspace.aei.mpg.de/2011/04/11/astrophysics-and-gravitational-wave… Starting Mon, Sep 05, 2011 to Fri, Sep 09, 2011 Location: Palma de Mallorca, Spain Additional Information: http://www.aei.mpg.de/~pau/Astro-GR@Mallorca.html We are glad to announce the 6th (!) Astro-GR meeting. This time we will meeting from Monday 5th to Friday September 9th 2011 in Palma de Mallorca to discuss about astrophysics and gravitational waves, focusing on the science the new European envisioned and other future missions can do, such as: * Astrophysical modelling of super- and massive black hole coalescences * Astrophysical modelling of small compact objects by massive black holes (aka "EMRIs") * Observations of our own Galactic Center (SgrA*) * Observations of binary neutron stars leading up to coalescence for long periods of time * Precision astronomy of massive stellar bodies and measurements of spin-down of individual pulsars * Modelling of strong field sources within General Relativity * Data analysis of the sources * Early warning of possible mergers either from the data analysis or by EM detection * Coincidence measurements with ground-based GW detectors This meeting will be run in the style of all previous Astro-GR meetings, with presentations in the morning and discussion/working groups in the afternoon. This format has worked very well in the past, so we have decided to use it again for this meeting. The format and venue for Astro-GR@Mallorca will limit the number of attendees. We thus kindly ask every participant to register as soon as s/he makes travel arrangements and to avoid disappointment. In keeping with the spirit of an informal workshop, there will be no registration fee. The number of slots will be very limited, and they will be chosen by the organizers on the basis of their relevance to the main focus and goal of this meeting. Please take a look to this link to get an impression of the general philosophy of the meetings: http://www.aei.mpg.de/~pau/astro_gr.html A key aim of the Astro-GR meetings is to foster and develop new collaborative ventures, as well as to strengthen existing ones, within the different communities (astrophysics, data analysis, general relativity and numerical relativity). Looking forward to getting your registrations! Pau Amaro-Seoane, Alicia Sintes and Sascha Husa ================================================================= 2. Jobs ================================================================= 2.1 Postdoc position in Gravitation, Astrophysics, Cosmology or Astroparticle Physics at Santander Univ., Colombia ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------ Announcement on Hyperspace@AEI: http://hyperspace.aei.mpg.de/2011/04/28/postdoc-position-in-gravitation-ast… Institution: Bucaramanga, Colombia Deadline: Mon, Jun 13, 2011 Additional Information: http://cevale2.uis.edu.co The Relativity and Gravitation Research Group (GIRG), Universidad Industrial de Santander, Bucaramanga, Colombia, invites applications for a postdoctoral research position for a one year period, beginning in Fall 2011.The GIRG group includes four faculty members of the School of Physics and its research interests cover a wide range of subjects from Astrophysics, General Relativity, Cosmology and Astroparticle Physics. Applicants who have received their Ph.D. in Physics or Astrophysics in the last five years are eligible for consideration. For this position, applicants will submit a cover letter, a curriculum vitae with a list of publications, a brief description of research interests and arrange for three letters of recommendation. In order to receive the application format, please contact Prof. Guillermo A. Gonzalez, Dean of the School of Graduate Studies, School of Physics guillego[at]uis.edu.co. Applicants selected for employment must complete a background check prior to employment. +++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++ 2.2 PhD Position in Theoretical Physics at Stockholm University ---------------------------------------------------------------- Announcement on Hyperspace@AEI: http://hyperspace.aei.mpg.de/2011/04/20/phd-position-in-theoretical-physics… Institution: Stockholm, Sweden Deadline: Mon, May 02, 2011 Additional Information: http://www.fysik.su.se/om/tjanster/Announcement_friteo_ENG.pdf This position is within one of the research subjects Physics, Theoretical Physics, Chemical Physics or Medical Radiation Physics and is directed towards theoretical activity. The applicant may freely choose the research area and supervisor. For research in "Relativistic astrophysics" (within the subject Theoretical Physics) you may select myself (Kjell Rosquist) as supervisor. For an example of a possible thesis subject, see http://www.irap-phd.org/page17/page17.html Note the tight deadline for applicatons: 2 May 2011. For any questions, please contact: Prof. Kjell Rosquist kr[at]fysik.su.se Tel: +4670 755 7649 +++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++ 2.3 Postdoctoral position in cosmology at University of Oslo ------------------------------------------------------------ Announcement on Hyperspace@AEI: http://hyperspace.aei.mpg.de/2011/04/20/postdoctoral-position-in-cosmology-… Institution: Oslo, Norway Deadline: Thu, Jun 30, 2011 Additional Information: http://uio.easycruit.com/vacancy/546081/64278?iso=no Position as postdoctoral research fellow is available at the Institute of Theoretical Astrophysics of the University of Oslo (http://www.astro.uio.no/) The fellowship period is 2 years and will start on 01.08.2011 or as soon as possible thereafter. The cosmology group has joined the proposed European cosmology space mission Euclid. Special scientific interest are within testing modified gravity and dark energy models, and constraining the neutrino masses, with results from large-scale galaxy surveys, including Baryonic Acoustic Oscillations, power spectra, large-scale flow patterns and weak lensing. This postdoctoral fellowship, which is funded by the Research Council of Norway, is dedicated to research in connection with this project, and we seek candidates who can contribute significantly within this field. The candidate must have a PhD or other corresponding education equivalent to a Norwegian doctoral degree in astronomy/astrophysics, physics or a related discipline and should have research experience of relevance for Euclid. Salary: Pay Grade: 57 – 64 (NOK 448 200 – 510 000 per year, depending on qualifications and seniority). Application to be sent electronically via: http://uio.easycruit.com/vacancy/546081/64278?iso=no The application must include: • Application letter • Project description • CV (summarizing education, positions, pedagogical experience, administrative experience and other qualifying activity) • Copies of educational certificates, transcript of records and letters of recommendation • A complete list of publications and copies of up to 5 academic works that the applicant wishes to be considered by the evaluation committee • Names and contact details of 2-3 references (name, relation to candidate, e-mail and telephone number) +++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++ 2.4 Lecturers in Mathematical Physics at University of Southampton ------------------------------------------------------------------ Announcement on Hyperspace@AEI: http://hyperspace.aei.mpg.de/2011/04/18/lecturers-in-mathematical-physics-a… Institution: Southampton, UK Deadline: Thu, May 19, 2011 Additional Information: http://www.jobs.soton.ac.uk We are seeking to appoint up to two outstanding mathematical physicists with excellent track records of research and the potential for research leadership in areas which will enhance and extend our current interests. We are looking to appoint candidates who undertake internationally leading research at the interface between Mathematics, Physics and Astronomy. These lectureships are central to the activities of the Southampton Theory Astronomy and Gravity (STAG) centre for fundamental physics. Preference will be given to an individual with a record of excellent research in either theoretical/computational relativistic astrophysics (particularly in modelling gamma-ray bursts, supernova core collapse, accretion onto compact objects or relativistic jets, phenomena relevant for multimessenger astronomy and astrophysics of black hole and neutron stars) or theoretical/mathematical physics (particularly in string inspired gravity, theoretical cosmology, dark matter, dark energy, AdS-CFT correspondence, holography and relativistic fluids). To be considered you should have a PhD in mathematical physics or a related area. You should have experience of solving problems, organising research and pursuing new research directions. You should also be able to demonstrate a high-quality research track-record and the potential to be an excellent teacher. Duties, as determined by the Head of Academic Unit, will include: conducting research of international standing in mathematical physics, applying for externally funded research grants and enhancing the international profile of the research group, undergraduate teaching and supervision of research students. As part of the role you will also be expected to support effective management and administration of the academic unit. The position is available from 1 August 2011 or as soon as possible thereafter. It is expected that interviews will be held in June 2011. As part of the interview process, candidates will be invited to give a research presentation. Informal enquiries can be made at any time to: Professor Nils Andersson email: N.A.Andersson[AT]soton.ac.uk tel. +44 (0)23 8059 4551 or to: Professor James Vickers email: J.A.Vickers[AT]soton.ac.uk tel +44(0) 23 8059 5113. Please visit http://www.jobs.soton.ac.uk and apply on-line, or call 023 8059 2750. The closing date for applications is 19 May 2011 at 12.00 noon. Please quote reference number 5466-11-J in all correspondence. +++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++ 2.5 Postdoc Position in Dynamics of Relativistic Magnetised Flows ----------------------------------------------------------------- Announcement on Hyperspace@AEI: http://hyperspace.aei.mpg.de/2011/04/09/postdoc-position-in-the-dynamics-of… Institution: Leeds, UK Deadline: Wed, Jun 01, 2011 Additional Information: http://ambio1.leeds.ac.uk/~serguei/ Applications are invited for a research fellowship funded by the Science and Technology Facilities Council (STFC). A major part of the post involves development of computer code for 3D Relativistic Magnethohydrodynamics with adaptive mesh refinement which will run on parallel computers. The other part of this job involves numerical study of the complex dynamics of magnetically-dominated relativistic plasma, with focus on the effects of non-axisymmetric instabilities, and with applications in the astrophysics of Pulsar Wind Nebulae, relativistic jets, and central engines of Active Galactic Nuclei and Gamma-Ray Bursts. You will work in close contact with the Principal Investigator (PI) Professor Serguei Komissarov as well as with Professor Samuel Falle of The University of Leeds and the other researches from USA and Belguim named in the project. You will have a PhD (or be close to completing) in the relevant discipline, e.g. Computational MHD, Plasma physics, Fluid dynamics, Astrophysics. Excellent computational skills, Fortran and/or C, experience in computational fluid dynamics and practical knowledge of parallel programming are essential. University Grade 6 (£24,370 - £29,099 p.a.) or University Grade 7 (£29,972 - £35,788 p.a.) Due to funding limitations it is likely the appointment will not be made above £31,798 p.a. Informal enquiries may be made to Professor Serguei Komissarov, tel +44 (0)113 343 5127 email Serguei[at]maths.leeds.ac.uk. Closing Date: 1 June 2011 Anticipated Interview Date: 20 June 2011 Applications should be made via http://www.leeds.ac.uk/universityjobs +++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++ 2.6 Postdoc position in numerical relativity at University of Burgundy ---------------------------------------------------------------------- Announcement on Hyperspace@AEI: http://hyperspace.aei.mpg.de/2011/04/09/postdoc-position-in-numerical-relat… Institution: Dijon, France Deadline: Thu, Jun 30, 2011 The Institut de Mathématiques de Bourgogne, Université de Bourgogne (Mathematical Institute of Burgundy, University of Burgundy at Dijon) offers a 1-year post-doctoral position by the Conseil Régional de Bourgogne (Regional council of Burgundy) in numerical relativity. A renewal of the position is possible. The successful candidate is supposed to work in the numerical treatment of PDEs related to general relativity. The candidate is expected to have experience in the numerical treatment of PDEs, especially in the use of spectral methods. A knowledge in C++ and/or Matlab and parallel computing is welcome. +++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++ 2.7 W2-Professorship in Theoretical Physics at University of Erlangen-Nuremberg ------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Announcement on Hyperspace@AEI: http://hyperspace.aei.mpg.de/2011/04/06/w2-professorship-in-theoretical-phy… Institution: Erlangen, Germany Deadline: Mon, May 02, 2011 Additional Information: http://theorie3.physik.uni-erlangen.de/opportunities.html The Faculty of Natural Sciences offers at the Institute of Theoretical Physics in the Department of Physics the position of a tenured W2-Professorship in Theoretical Physics, succession of Prof. Dr. M. Dilig. Duties include teaching and research in Theoretical Physics. The successful candidate is expected to have a strong research record in the quantum field theoretical generalisation of General Relativity. His or her research field should enhance the institute's activities in this field and in Mathematical Physics. Interest in phenomenological aspects of Quantum Gravity is desirable. Opportunities of cooperation exist, among others, with the Department of Mathematics, in particular with the Emmy Noether Centre for Algebra, as well as with the Erlangen Centre for Astroparticle Physics (ECAP). Qualifications include university undergraduate and doctoral degrees, good teaching skills, and a habilitation or equivalent other qualification, which may have been gained outside the University or within a Juniorprofessur. The successful candidate will be expected to take over administrative duties and also to attract external funding. At the time of appointment the candidate must not be older than 52 years of age. The Ministry for Science, Research and Art may allow an exception in special cases, which has to be approved by the Ministry of Finance. This appointment will be made by the University of Erlangen-Nuremberg. The University of Erlangen-Nuremberg is comitted to a profamily policy and an equal opportunity employer. We strongly encourage women to apply in an effort to increase a female representation in research and teaching. The University of Erlangen-Nuremberg persues a policy of intensive study support of its students and expects therefore that its teaching staff maintain a substantial student contact time by being present at the university. All other qualifications being equal handicapped persons will be given priority. The position is to be filled as soon as possible. Application documents (curriculum vitae, photograph, list of publications and teaching activities, certified copies of the degree certificates but no publications) and a brief statement of research interests must be sent not later than May 2nd, 2011, to: Dekan der Naturwissenschaftlichen Fakultät der Universität Erlangen-Nürnberg, Universitätsstraße 40, D-91054 Erlangen, Germany. ================================================================= 3. News ================================================================= 3.1 2010 GWIC Thesis Prize -------------------------- Announcement on Hyperspace@AEI: http://hyperspace.aei.mpg.de/2011/04/13/2010-gwic-thesis-prize/ Additional Information: https://gwic.ligo.org/thesisprize/ I am pleased to announce that the Gravitational Wave International Committee (GWIC) Thesis Prize for 2010 is awarded to Haixing Miao from the University of Western Australia, for his thesis "Exploring Macroscopic Quantum Mechanics in Optomechanical Devices". We hope that we will be able to give Haixing his award at the Amaldi9 meeting in Cardiff. This year, we again set a record for the number of nominations: seventeen theses from six countries. Moreover, with this award, Australia becomes the fourth continent to host a winner in the five year history of the GWIC Thesis Prize, demonstrating in the clearest fashion the truly global nature of gravitational wave research. The nominees and their theses can be found at https://gwic.ligo.org/thesisprize/ We are most grateful to chair Viviana Fafone and the Selection Committee (Duncan Brown, Chris van den Broeck, Neil Cornish, Andreas Freise, Dick Manchester, Masa-Katsu Fujimoto, and Peter Shawhan) for their hard work.

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[Hyperspace-list] Hyperspace Bulletin for April 2011
by hyperspace＠aei.mpg.de 02 Apr '11

02 Apr '11

################################################################# Table of Contents ################################################################# 1. Conferences 1.1 Quantum Field Theory Under the Influence of External Conditions 1.2 KITP program 2012: Bits, Branes, and Black Holes 1.3 Microphysics in Computational Relativistic Astrophysics (2nd circular) 1.4 21st Midwest Relativity Meeting 1.5 XXIX Max Born Symposium: "Super, Quantum & Twistors II" 2. Jobs 2.1 PhD position in gravitational theory at the University of Jena 2.2 PhD position in Gravitational Wave Physics in Rome (Tor Vergata) 2.3 Postdoc in gravitational-wave physics and numerical relativity at Cardiff University 2.4 PhD position at Nicolaus Copernicus Astronomical Center, Warsaw, Poland 2.5 Postdoctoral position at Florida Atlantic University in numerical astrophysics 3. News 3.1 Dr Barry Wardell to receive thesis prize from IOP’s Gravitational Physics Group co-sponsored by CQG 3.2 Living Reviews in Relativity - No. 100: "Varying Constants, Gravitation and Cosmology" ================================================================= 1. Conferences ================================================================= 1.1 Quantum Field Theory Under the Influence of External Conditions ------------------------------------------------------------------- Announcement on Hyperspace@AEI: http://hyperspace.aei.mpg.de/2011/03/18/quantum-field-theory-under-the-infl… Starting Sun, Sep 18, 2011 to Sat, Sep 24, 2011 Location: Benasque, Spain Additional Information: http://benasque.org/2011qfext/ QFEXT11 is a continuation of a series of workshops of the same title held at the University of Leipzig in 1989, 1992, 1995, 1998, 2001, 2007, at the University of Oklahoma in 2003, 2009, and at the University of Barcelona in 2005. Started with the intention of bringing about an East-West scientific dialog, QFEXT developed into one of the most prominent meetings in the field of the Casimir effect, vacuum energy, and related questions in several areas, ranging from quantum field theory and cosmology to atomic, subnuclear, and experimental physics. Typically mathematical questions related to spectral geometry are represented as well. These meetings have created a unique atmosphere where theoreticians, mathematicians and experimentalists are brought together for a week, where talks by colleagues that they might rarely hear otherwise often spark lively debate and result in numerous collaborations. QFEXT11 will also celebrate the 75th anniversary of the seminal paper "Consequences of the Dirac Theory of the Positron", by W. Heisenberg and H. Euler (Zeitschr. Phys. 98, 714-732, 1936), which played an important part in establishing the study of quantum fields in classical background fields. We plan to include a special session devoted to Heisenberg-Euler effective Lagrangians and their impact in modern physics. +++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++ 1.2 KITP program 2012: Bits, Branes, and Black Holes ---------------------------------------------------- Announcement on Hyperspace@AEI: http://hyperspace.aei.mpg.de/2011/03/14/kitp-program-bits-branes-and-black-… Starting Mon, Mar 19, 2012 to Fri, May 25, 2012 Location: Santa Barbara, CA, USA Additional Information: http://www.kitp.ucsb.edu/activities/dbdetails?acro=bitbranes12 Dear Colleagues, We are writing to announce the program Bits, Branes, Black Holes, to be held at the Kavli Institute for Theoretical Physics at the University of California, Santa Barbara, during the period March 19 – May 25, 2012, and to alert you that applications are now being accepted. We also encourage you to inform others who you think might be interested in applying. We coordinators will be assisted by advisors Joe Polchinski and Ted Jacobson. A summary and the latest information about the program can be found online at http://www.kitp.ucsb.edu/activities/dbdetails?acro=bitbranes12 . It is necessary for every prospective participant to set up an account and apply online, even if we have already corresponded with you about the program. There will also be a “wrap-up” conference associated with this program, entitled Black Holes and Information to be held from May 21 – 25, 2012. Further information will be posted online when it becomes available. (It is not necessary to be a program participant in order to attend the conference.) KITP programs differ from many conferences and workshops in that they create a situation where scientists learn from each other and actually do substantive research, often collaborating with other participants. To foster these interactions, KITP strongly encourages theorists to stay for as long as possible, with three weeks being the minimum stay for a regular participant. We understand, however, that experimentalists/observers often cannot manage long visits but can have a big impact even in a week, so we can be more flexible for them. Some level of financial support will be available, the amount depending on the needs of the participants and availability of funds. To apply, go to the aforementioned web page, and click on the Apply link. Application deadline: July 31, 2011. Late applications will be considered as budget and space permits. Due to space and financial constraints, however, we may not be able to accommodate everyone who applies. KITP provides office and computing facilities on-site at UC Santa Barbara and also provides help in finding living accommodations. Actual commitments of office space and financial support can be made only by written formal invitations from the KITP Director, David Gross, regardless of any communications you may have had with us. If you think you might like to participate, it will help us with our planning if you could apply early, including your proposed length of stay and any financial requirements. If you have any questions, please contact one of the coordinators. Sincerely yours, Vijay Balasubramanian <vijay [AT] physics.upenn.edu> Alex Maloney <maloney [AT] physics.mcgill.ca> Donald Marolf <marolf [AT] physics.ucsb.edu> Joan Simon <J.Simon [AT] ed.ac.uk> +++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++ 1.3 Microphysics in Computational Relativistic Astrophysics (2nd circular) -------------------------------------------------------------------------- Announcement on Hyperspace@AEI: http://hyperspace.aei.mpg.de/2011/03/10/microphysics-in-computational-relat… Starting Mon, Jun 20, 2011 to Sat, Jun 25, 2011 Location: Waterloo, ON, Canada Additional Information: http://micra2011.org The Microphysics in Computational Relativistic Astrophysics (MICRA 2011) workshop will take place June 20-25 at the Perimeter Institute, in Waterloo, Ontario, Canada. Registration is now open at http://micra2011.org The goal of MICRA is to bring together researchers from the numerical relativity/computational astrophysics community with experts in the microscopic physics of matter and radiation at high densities to facilitate exchange between these communities leading to improved models of relativistic astrophysical systems. Topics covered by MICRA 2011 will include * Hot and cold nuclear EOS (including implementation in codes), * Improved neutrino interactions, * Efficient implementations of interactions/neutrino transport (approximate schemes [leakage,diffusion], Monte Carlo schemes etc.), * Crust physics and its inclusion in computational models, * Nucleosynthesis in compact object mergers and the potential radioactive afterglow signature? (including implementation issues), MICRA 2011 will take place in an informal workshop setting with much time for interaction and discussion. Registration will open on March 1 and will close on June 1. We aim for 30-40 participants and can accomodate a maximum of 50. Please register ASAP. The MICRA 2011 organizers, Cliff Burgess, James Lattimer, Luis Lehner, Christian Ott, Chris Pethick, Achim Schwenk +++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++ 1.4 21st Midwest Relativity Meeting ----------------------------------- Announcement on Hyperspace@AEI: http://hyperspace.aei.mpg.de/2011/03/04/21st-midwest-relativity-meeting/ Starting Fri, Nov 04, 2011 to Sat, Nov 05, 2011 Location: Urbana, IL, USA The 21st Midwest Relativity Meeting will be held Friday and Saturday, November 4 and 5, 2011 at the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign. The format of the meeting will follow previous regional meetings, where all participants may present a talk of approximately 10-15 minutes, depending on the total number of talks. We intend for the meeting to cover a broad range of topics in gravitation physics, including classical and quantum gravity, numerical relativity, relativistic astrophysics, cosmology, gravitational waves and experimental gravity. As this is a regional meeting, many of the participants will be from the greater United States Midwest and Canada, but researchers and students from other areas are also welcome. A conference website will be open in September, at which time further details, registration information and abstract submission will be available. +++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++ 1.5 XXIX Max Born Symposium: "Super, Quantum & Twistors II" ----------------------------------------------------------- Announcement on Hyperspace@AEI: http://hyperspace.aei.mpg.de/2011/03/01/xxix-max-born-symposium-super-quant… Starting Tue, Jun 28, 2011 to Thu, Jun 30, 2011 Location: Wroclaw, Poland Additional Information: http://www.ift.uni.wroc.pl/~mborn29/ The aim of the Symposium is to gather together researchers working on different aspects of theoretical physics, such as sypersymmetry, quantum symmetries and twistors, which are all interests of Prof. Lukierski whose 75th birthday will be celebrated at the Symposium. Main topics: * Supersymmmetry * Quantum symmetries * Twistors Local Organizing Committee: A. Borowiec, J. Kowalski-Glikman, M. Mozrzymas, A. Pachol Location: The Symposium will be held in at Institute of Theoretical Physics, University of Wroclaw Contact: mborn29[at]ift.uni.wroc.pl Address: pl. M. Borna 9; 50-204 Wroclaw; Poland Lecturers include: * J. Azcarraga * M. Arzano * M. Chaichian* * L. Dabrowski * S. Doplicher * M. Dunajski * L. D. Fadeev* * T.R. Govindarajan * E. Ivanov * R. Kerner * L. Mason * V.N. Tolstoy * M. Rausch de Traubenberg * A. Sitarz * D. Sorokin * P. Stichel * W.J. Zakrzewski *-to be confirmed ================================================================= 2. Jobs ================================================================= 2.1 PhD position in gravitational theory at the University of Jena ------------------------------------------------------------------ Announcement on Hyperspace@AEI: http://hyperspace.aei.mpg.de/2011/03/30/phd-position-in-gravitational-theor… Institution: Jena, Germany Deadline: Wed, Jun 01, 2011 Additional Information: http://www.tpi.uni-jena.de/gravity/Jobs/Ausschreibung_G3.pdf Applications are invited for a PhD position starting from October 1, 2011 within the DFG Research Training Group 1523/1 "Quantum- and Gravitational Fields" at the Friedrich-Schiller-University Jena. The successful candidate will work on analytical methods for solving Einstein’s field equations of general relativity. Please send your application with a curriculum vitae and a description of your research interests compiled in one single pdf document to meinel[at]tpi.uni-jena.de. In addition, we request two letters of recommendation. For further questions please contact: Professor Reinhard Meinel Friedrich-Schiller-University Jena Theoretisch-Physikalisches Institut Max-Wien-Platz 1 07743 Jena, Germany +++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++ 2.2 PhD position in Gravitational Wave Physics in Rome (Tor Vergata) -------------------------------------------------------------------- Announcement on Hyperspace@AEI: http://hyperspace.aei.mpg.de/2011/03/17/phd-position-in-gravitational-wave-… Institution: Rome, Italy Deadline: Mon, Apr 25, 2011 Additional Information: http://dottorati.uniroma2.it/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&… The University of Roma Tor Vergata is starting a pre-selection process for non-Italian students applying for a position in a PhD Program for the Academic Year 2011/12. All the information can be found at: http://dottorati.uniroma2.it/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=27 3&catid=275&Itemid=259 For any question regarding the research proposal to be submitted, please contact me at: viviana.fafone[at]roma2.infn.it Prof. Viviana Fafone University of Rome Tor Vergata and INFN Rome Tor Vergata Via della ricerca scientifica, 1 - 00133 Rome, Italy Tel: +39 0694038135 / 0672594563 Fax: +39 0694032605 +++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++ 2.3 Postdoc in gravitational-wave physics and numerical relativity at Cardiff University ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Announcement on Hyperspace@AEI: http://hyperspace.aei.mpg.de/2011/03/11/postdoc-in-gravitational-wave-physi… Institution: Cardiff, UK Additional Information: http://www.cardiff.ac.uk/jobs/physx/research-associate-in-gravitational-wav… The Cardiff Gravitational Physics Group (http://www.astro.cf.ac.uk/research/gravity) is seeking applications to fill one postdoctoral research position in topics related to numerical simulations of compact binaries and the detection of gravitational waves from these sources. The group consists of Stephen Fairhurst, Mark Hannam, Bangalore Sathyaprakash, Bernard Schutz (part time), and Patrick Sutton, five postdoctoral associates, and seven PhD students. Group members play leading roles in efforts to detect signals from the coalescence of neutron-star and black-hole binaries, and from gamma-ray bursts. They model astrophysical sources of gravitational waves and develop search algorithms for their detection and interpretation with current and future detectors, including participation in the design study of the Einstein Telescope, a third generation gravitational wave antenna with an anticipated sensitivity a factor of ten better than the advanced LIGO detectors. The position is available initially for a period of two years and will be appointed at Research Associate (Grade 6) level. The nominal starting date is October 2011. Salary: £29853 - £35646 per annum. (Grade 6). Informal enquiries can be made to Dr Mark Hannam by email at Mark.Hannam[AT]astro.cf.ac.uk. To work for an employer that values and promotes equality of opportunity, visit http://www.cf.ac.uk/jobs, telephone +44 (0) 29 2087 4017, or email vacancies[AT]cardiff.ac.uk for an application form quoting vacancy number 2011/0138. Closing date: March 25 2011. (NOTE the close deadline.) +++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++ 2.4 PhD position at Nicolaus Copernicus Astronomical Center, Warsaw, Poland --------------------------------------------------------------------------- Announcement on Hyperspace@AEI: http://hyperspace.aei.mpg.de/2011/03/09/ph-d-program-high-luminosity-black-… Institution: Warsaw, Poland Deadline: Mon, May 16, 2011 Additional Information: http://www.camk.edu.pl/studok/2011/bh-accr-program-poster.pdf Ph.D. program "High-luminosity black hole accretion disks - unsolved problems" at Nicolaus Copernicus Astronomical Center, Warsaw, Poland advisor: Prof. Marek A. Abramowicz (NCAC, Poland; Göteborg University, Sweden) co-advisor: Prof. Ramesh Narayan (Harvard University, USA) co-advisor: Dr. Aleksander Sądowski (Harvard University, USA) Applications are invited for a four-year stipend to conduct work on the above mentioned doctorate thesis at the Nicolaus Copernicus Astronomical Center in Warsaw. The project goal is to develop accurate hydrodynamic and magnetohydrodynamic numerical codes to calculate physically realistic "Slim Disk" models for black hole accretion with luminosities in the Eddington range. The problem is considered to be one of the most interesting and challenging in today's high energy astrophysics. Slim disk models are applied to explain the observed properties of quasars, microquasars, and similar astronomical objects, which contain accreting black holes in their high luminosity states. By fitting the observed X-ray spectra (continuum and line) to those calculated from state-of-art slim disk models, and by fitting the observed variability Fourier spectra to the calculated model's oscillatory behaviour, one can deduce fundamental properties of the accreting system, and of the black hole itself. The student(s) will use numerical methods that have been developed by our scientific team in the last few years. The student(s) will improve and expand these methods. Initial projects include the following, which will naturally lead to other topics: * The alpha viscosity prescription at high luminosities, * The vertical structure of slim disks at high luminosities. The student(s) will collaborate not only with our colleagues at the Copernicus Centre (Włodek Kluźniak, Agata Różańska) and at Harvard and MIT (Jeff McClintock, Ron Remillard), but possibly also with our collaborators at the Jagiellonian University in Cracow, Astronomy Institute in Prague and Silesian University in Opava in the Czech Republic, Paris Observatory and Institute d'Astrophysique in France, Göteborg University and NORDITA in Sweden, Xiamen and Peking universities in China, Kyoto University in Japan, and University of California in USA. The studies will be conducted in Warsaw, but the student(s) should be prepared for one or two long stays at Harvard University (up to a few months). The candidate should have some experience in serious numerical simulations. Literature: Relativistic slim disks with vertical structure A. Sądowski et al., A&A, (http://arxiv.org/abs/1006.4309) Slim disks around Kerr black holes revisited A. Sądowski, ApjS, (http://arxiv.org/abs/0906.0355) Deadline for applications is on 16th May 2011. Decision about admission will be made in June. Studies start on 1st October 2011. The stipend fully covers all living expenses in Warsaw. More information, and announcements about other Ph.D. projects at NCAC, at http://www.camk.edu.pl/studok/studokeng2011.html +++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++ 2.5 Postdoctoral position at Florida Atlantic University in numerical astrophysics ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Announcement on Hyperspace@AEI: http://hyperspace.aei.mpg.de/2011/03/05/postdoctoral-position-at-florida-at… Institution: Boca Raton, FL, USA Deadline: Sun, Jul 31, 2011 Additional Information: https://jobs.fau.edu/applicants/jsp/shared/frameset/Frameset.jsp?time=12993… The Florida Atlantic University Space Time Group (FAUST) invites applications for a postdoctoral research position for a two year period, renewable to a third beginning in Fall 2011.The FAUST group includes seven faculty members of the Department and its research interests cover a wide range of subjects from Astrophysics, General Relativity and Quantum Gravity. The successful applicant will be part of the longstanding collaboration between FAU, Oak Ridge National Laboratory and North Carolina State University that pursues the numerical modeling of supernovae explosions. Applicants who have received their Ph.D. in Physics are eligible for consideration. For this position,applicants will submit a cover letter, a curriculum vitae with a list of publications, a brief description of research interests and arrange for three letters of recommendation. An on-line application must be completed in order to be considered for the position: https://jobs.fau.edu, reference position numbe r 980115. Applicants selected for employment must complete a background check prior to employment. Florida Atlantic University is an Equal Employment/Equal Access Institution. All applications will be fully considered until the position is filled. ================================================================= 3. News ================================================================= 3.1 Dr Barry Wardell to receive thesis prize from IOP’s Gravitational Physics Group co-sponsored by CQG ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Announcement on Hyperspace@AEI: http://hyperspace.aei.mpg.de/2011/03/30/dr-barry-wardell-to-receive-thesis-… Additional Information: http://www.iop.org/activity/groups/subject/gp/prize/page_40694.html It gives me great pleasure to announce the award of the 2010 IOP Gravitational Physics Group’s Thesis Prize to Dr Barry Wardell of the Albert Einstein Institute at Golm. As Editor-in-Chief of Classical and Quantum Gravity, which co-sponsors the prize, I am delighted to see it going to such a deserving recipient. The award is made for the development of ground-breaking computational techniques for obtaining highly accurate expressions for Green functions on curved spacetime. Dr Wardell completed his thesis at Dublin City University in Ireland. The thesis: "Green functions and radiation reaction from a spacetime perspective" is available for download from the ArXiv: http://arxiv.org/abs/0910.2634 The prize will be awarded at IOP’s Nuclear and Particle Physics Divisional (NPPD) conference at Glasgow University on 6 April. Dr Wardell will receive the prize shortly before his talk at 3.30pm in the Humanities Lecture Theatre. Yours sincerely Clifford M Will Editor in Chief Classical and Quantum Gravity +++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++ 3.2 Living Reviews in Relativity - No. 100: "Varying Constants, Gravitation and Cosmology" ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------ Announcement on Hyperspace@AEI: http://hyperspace.aei.mpg.de/2011/03/29/living-reviews-in-relativity-no-100… Additional Information: http://www.livingreviews.org/lrr-2011-2 Today, Living Reviews in Relativity has published a new review article on "Varying Constants, Gravitation and Cosmology" by Jean-Philippe Uzan. Please find the abstract and further details below. THIS IS PUBLICATION NO. 100! Thus, our journal offers 100 review articles on 72 different topics in in various areas of relativity. All full texts are free of charge, following the principles of the Open Access to Scientific Knowledge movement. Our reference database now contains about 20,000 references which are linked to the reviews and can be exported in various formats. The success of Living Reviews in Relativity has been acknowledged by its high Impact Factor (10.600), and just recently by SPIRES including 10 reviews in the Top Cited Articles during 2010 in gr-qc. Overall, nine articles made it to the list of the 100 most highly cited papers of all time. We'd like to thank all our readers and authors for their interest and support! The Living Reviews team. ------------------------------------ PUB.NO. lrr-2011-2 Uzan, Jean-Philippe "Varying Constants, Gravitation and Cosmology" ACCEPTED: 2011-03-23 PUBLISHED: 2011-03-29 FULL ARTICLE AT: http://www.livingreviews.org/lrr-2011-2 (incl. 6 Figures and 554 references) ABSTRACT: Fundamental constants are a cornerstone of our physical laws. Any constant varying in space and/or time would reflect the existence of an almost massless field that couples to matter. This will induce a violation of the universality of free fall. Thus, it is of utmost importance for our understanding of gravity and of the domain of validity of general relativity to test for their constancy. We detail the relations between the constants, the tests of the local position invariance and of the universality of free fall. We then review the main experimental and observational constraints that have been obtained from atomic clocks, the Oklo phenomenon, solar system observations, meteorite dating, quasar absorption spectra, stellar physics, pulsar timing, the cosmic microwave background and big bang nucleosynthesis. At each step we describe the basics of each system, its dependence with respect to the constants, the known systematic effects and the most recent constraints that have b een obtained. We then describe the main theoretical frameworks in which the low-energy constants may actually be varying and we focus on the unification mechanisms and the relations between the variation of different constants. To finish, we discuss the more speculative possibility of understanding their numerical values and the apparent fine-tuning that they confront us with. UPCOMING ARTICLES AT: http://relativity.livingreviews.org/Articles/upcoming.html ------------------------------------ Living Reviews in Relativity http://relativity.livingreviews.org/ ISSN: 1433-8351 Published by Max Planck Institute for Gravitational Physics (Albert Einstein Institute)

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[Hyperspace-list] Hyperspace Bulletin for March 2011
by hyperspace＠aei.mpg.de 03 Mar '11

03 Mar '11

################################################################# Table of Contents ################################################################# 1. Conferences 1.1 12th Italian-Korean Symposium on Relativistic Astrophysics 1.2 IRAP PhD and Erasmus Mundus Workshop on: Recent News from the GeV and TeV Gamma-Ray Domains: Results and Interpretations 1.3 IRAP PhD and Erasmus Mundus Workshop: From Nuclei to White Dwarfs and Neutron Stars (2nd announcement) 1.4 3rd Galileo-Xu Guangqi Meeting 1.5 Seventh International Conference on Gravitation and Cosmology (2nd announcement) 1.6 PASCOS 2011 - Registration now open 1.7 Grav11 (Second Circular) 1.8 8th Constantine International Conference on Progress in Theoretical Physics 1.9 14th Capra Meeting on Radiation Reaction in General Relativity 1.10 2011 Numerical Relativity - Data Analysis (NRDA) meeting 1.11 INT program announcement - Astrophysical Transients 2. Jobs 2.1 Postdoctoral positions in theoretical cosmology at IISER-TVM 3. News ================================================================= 1. Conferences ================================================================= 1.1 12th Italian-Korean Symposium on Relativistic Astrophysics -------------------------------------------------------------- Announcement on Hyperspace@AEI: http://hyperspace.aei.mpg.de/2011/02/25/12th-italian-korean-symposium-on-re… Starting Mon, Jul 04, 2011 to Fri, Jul 08, 2011 Location: Pescara, Italy Additional Information: http://www.icranet.org/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=94&Itemid=… This series of biannual symposia since 1987 has been boosting exchange of information and collaborations between Italian and Korean astrophysicists on new and hot issues in the field of Relativistic Astrophysics. The symposium will cover astrophysics and cosmology, such as gamma ray bursts and compact stars, high energy cosmic rays, dark energy and dark matter, general relativity, black holes, and new physics related to cosmology. The organizers wish this symposium to deepen understanding not only astrophysics and cosmology but also Eastern and Western culture. The 12th Italian-Korean meeting is organized by ICRAnet, Sogang University, Center for Quantum Space Time, National Research Foundation of Korea, Institute for the Early Universe, Korean astronomy & Space Science Institute, Asia Pacific Center for Theoretical Physics, Leung Center for Cosmology and Particle Physics, University of Rome “Sapienza”, University of Nice “Sophia Antipolis”, Stockholm University, Free University of Berlin, ICRA, ENEA, INFN, ICTP, Observatoire de la Côte d’Azur, CBPF, the National Astronomical Observatory (Beijing), the Institutes of High Energy Physics, the Institute of Theoretical Physics, the Institute for the History of Natural Sciences. +++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++ 1.2 IRAP PhD and Erasmus Mundus Workshop on: Recent News from the GeV and TeV Gamma-Ray Domains: Results and Interpretations ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Announcement on Hyperspace@AEI: http://hyperspace.aei.mpg.de/2011/02/25/irap-phd-and-erasmus-mundus-worksho… Starting Mon, Mar 21, 2011 to Sat, Mar 26, 2011 Location: Pescara, Italy Additional Information: http://www.icranet.org/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=574 This workshop is jointly organized by ICRANet, the Universities of Rome “Sapienza” and “Tor Vergata” and the Max-Planck-Institut fuer Kernphysik (Heidelberg), within the Erasmus Mundus Doctorate Program. The main topics discussed will be UHE, Extreme Astrophysical Accelerators, AGN, Galactic Center, Black Holes, Blazars, Gamma-Ray and Neutrino Signatures, Supermassive Black Holes, FERMI LAT data, SNRs, Cyg X-3 and Cyg X-1, Big Surprises from the Crab Nebula, AGILE data on SNRs, SNR Gamma-Cygni. Lecturers include: Aharonian Felix - The Nature's perfectly designed Extreme Accelerators, Barkov Maxim - Particle acceleration and gamma-ray production in AGN initiated by the jet-star interactions, Jones Dave - Multiwavelength studies of the Galactic Center, Kafexhiu Ervin - Excitation and destruction of nuclei in hot astrophysical plasmas around black holes, Lefa Eva - Time-dependent modeling of the energy spectra of gamma-ray blazars, Prosekin Anton - Gamma-ray and neutrino signatures of sources of 1020 eV cosmic rays, Rieger Frank - Particle acceleration and gamma-ray production in the vicinity of supermassive black holes. The case of M87, Ruizhi Yang - The study of extended gamma-ray sources based on the FERMI LAT data Ruffini Remo - GRBs and Supernovae: common conceptual issues, Benedetti Alberto - On the frequency of plasma oscillations in the pair plasma generated by a strong electric field, Bianco Carlo Luciano - The canonical GRB scenario, Caito Letizia - The case of disguised short GRBs, De Barros Gustavo - The case of GRB 050509B, Fraga Machado De Oliveira Bernardo - Cosmological Constraints on inos masses and quantum statistic, Han Wenbiao - Electron-positron pair oscillation in spatially inhomogeneous electric fields and radiation, Izzo Luca - on a Nova undergoing outburst, Malheiro Manuel - Magnetized White Dwarfs, Penacchioni Ana V. - The case of Multiple GRBs, Rueda Jorge A. - Thomas Fermi in Relativistic Field Theories, Siutsou Ivan - Self Gravitating inos and constant surface density, Vereshchagin Gregory - Transparency of an extended relativistic shell along the line of sight and application to GRBs, Xue She-Sheng - Space-time evolution of electric fields in compact stars Tavani Marco - On SNR RX 1713.7, Discussion of particle acceleration in SNRs, Overview of galactic microquasars and focus on Cyg X-3 and Cyg X-1, Big surprises from the Crab Nebula: variability and theory, Cardillo Martina - on SNR W44, Giuliani Andrea - Overview of AGILE data on SNRs, On SNR W28, Piano Giovanni - On SNR Gamma-Cygni, Striani Edoardo - The mysterious Galactic gamma-ray sources, Vercellone Stefano - The brightest gamma-ray blazar: 3C 454.3 ("Crazy Diamond"), Vittorini Valerio - Theoretical models of 3C 454.3 and similar monsters All interested scientists and students are invited to register themselves using the form that can be found on the website: http://www.icranet.org/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=574 The registration fee is 300€. +++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++ 1.3 IRAP PhD and Erasmus Mundus Workshop: From Nuclei to White Dwarfs and Neutron Stars (2nd announcement) ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Announcement on Hyperspace@AEI: http://hyperspace.aei.mpg.de/2011/02/25/irap-phd-and-erasmus-mundus-worksho… Starting Sun, Apr 03, 2011 to Fri, Apr 08, 2011 Location: Les Houches, France Additional Information: http://astro-les-houches.in2p3.fr/ The workshop is promoted by ICRANet within the International Relativistic Astrophysics Ph. D. Program (IRAP Ph D) and the ERASMUS MUNDUS activities. Lectures will be presented by leading Physicists and Astrophysicists working in the interface of Nuclear Physics, White Dwarfs, Neutron Star Physics and Black Holes Physics. Special attention is being devoted to the new scenarios presented by the observations of X-ray bursters, Gamma Ray Bursts and Supernovae. Lecturers include: Aksenov Aleksey, Arnett David, Baym Gordon, Bianco Carlo Luciano, Bisnovaty-Kogan Gennady, Casey Meakin (TBC), Chardonnet Pascal, Chechetkin Valery, Della Valle Massimo, Fuller George (TBC), Izzo Luca, Lattimer Jim, Meynet George, Mezzacappa Anthony, Nadyozhin Dmitrij K., Ott Christian, Pelletier Guy, Pethick Chris, Psaltis Dimitrios(TBC), Rotondo Michael, Rueda Jorge A., Ruffini Remo, Vereshchagin Gregory, Xue She-Sheng All interested scientists and students can register themselves using the form on the webpages: http://astro-les-houches.in2p3.fr/index.html or http://www.icranet.org The registration fee is 350€ and it includes accommodation, lunches, coffee breaks and the proceedings publication. You can find information on how to reach Les Houches on the website: the nearest airport is the Geneva one, that is 1 hour drive, then there are many public and private shuttle services from the airport to the conference location. As regards accommodation, there are 70 chalets in the school: they are single-rooms with toilet facilities. If you are interested in booking one of them, please send a mail to annapia.delbeato[AT]icranet.org with information on your name, surname, age and sex. You can settle into your room from 6pm on Sunday evening; you should leave your room on Friday morning, after the breakfast. +++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++ 1.4 3rd Galileo-Xu Guangqi Meeting ---------------------------------- Announcement on Hyperspace@AEI: http://hyperspace.aei.mpg.de/2011/02/25/3rd-galileo-xu-guangqi-meeting-2/ Starting Wed, Oct 12, 2011 to Sun, Oct 16, 2011 Location: Beijing, China Additional Information: http://www.icranet.org/3gx This 3rd “Galileo – Xu Guanqi meeting” will be held in Beijing from Oct. 12th to 16thth 2011. It represents a collaboration between ICRANet, University of Roma “Sapienza”, University of Nice “Sophia Antipolis”, Stockholm University, Free University of Berlin, ICRA, ENEA, INFN, ICTP, Observatoire de la Côte d’Azur, CBPF, the National Astronomical Observatory (Beijing), the Institutes of High Energy Physics, the Institute of Theoretical Physics, the Institute for the History of Natural Sciences, the Chinese Academy of Sciences, the Tsinghua University, the Peking University, the Beijing Normal University, the Leung Center for Cosmology and Particle Astrophysics, the Kavli Institute for Theoretical Physics at the Chinese Academy of Sciences, the Kavli Institute for Astronomy and Astrophysics at Peking University, the Beijing Planetarium. The meeting is particularly dedicated to recall the roots of the modern scientific research in the East and the West and revie w the recent progress in Physics and Astrophysics with special attention to one of the most advanced fields of scientific research: relativistic astrophysics. We will review current progress in the theoretical fields made possible by astronomical observations of the Sun, of the Stars and of the Universe. These results have been achieved thanks to the theories of Albert Einstein and to the unprecedented numbers of observational techniques: in X-ray, Gamma-ray, optical wave-lengths from space based observatories, in radio telescopes wavelengths from telescopes on the ground as well as in particle physics from underground observatories. We are looking for an international meeting of 274 participants, 137 from Asia and 137 from the rest of the Planet. The meeting is organized by an international organizing committee and a local organizing committee. Interested scientists and students can register themselves and submit title and abstract of their contributions on the webpage http://www.icranet.org/3gx The registration fee for non-Chinese participants is 300€ (students 150€) before the deadline, 30th August, 2011. After the deadline, it is 400€ (students 200€). Participants who didn’t pay their fee in advance can pay cash upon their arrival at the registration desk. For Chinese participants (including participants from Taiwan, Hong Kong and Macao) the registration fee is RMB 800 Yuan (students RMB 400 Yuan) and should be paid upon their arrival at the registration desk. The registration fee will include 5 lunches, coffee breaks and the proceedings publication. +++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++ 1.5 Seventh International Conference on Gravitation and Cosmology (2nd announcement) ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------ Announcement on Hyperspace@AEI: http://hyperspace.aei.mpg.de/2011/02/25/seventh-international-conference-on… Starting Wed, Dec 14, 2011 to Mon, Dec 19, 2011 Location: Goa, India Additional Information: http://www.tifr.res.in/~icgc2011 INTERNATIONAL CENTRE for THEORETICAL SCIENCES TATA INSTITUTE OF FUNDAMENTAL RESEARCH This is the second announcement for the Seventh International Conference on Gravitation and Cosmology [ICGC 2011], to be held in Goa, India during 14-19 December, 2011. Pre-registration opens on 1st March, 2011 and closes on 30th June, 2011. Abstracts for contributed talks in parallel sessions can be submitted during this period. Apart from plenary talks, there will be invited talks in three mini-sessions on: Gravity as an Emergent Phenomenon; Dark Energy; Gravitational Wave Astronomy. ICGC is a four yearly conference series held in India under the auspices of the Indian Association for General relativity and Gravitation. ICGC 2011 is the Silver Jubilee conference of the series, and is being held as part of the programme "Frontiers of Cosmology and Gravitation". This programme will run from December 1-23, 2011 and is an activity of the newly formed International Centre of Theoretical Sciences of the Tata Institute of Fundamental Research. The programme consists of a school on Cosmology and Gravitational Waves; ICGC 2011; and a workshop on Gravitational Wave astronomy. More information about the programme will become available at http://www.icts.res.in/program/focg2011 +++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++ 1.6 PASCOS 2011 - Registration now open --------------------------------------- Announcement on Hyperspace@AEI: http://hyperspace.aei.mpg.de/2011/02/21/pascos-2011-registration-now-open/ Starting Sun, Jul 03, 2011 to Fri, Jul 08, 2011 Location: Cambridge, UK Additional Information: http://www.damtp.cam.ac.uk/research/gr/workshops/PASCOS/2011/ Registration for PASCOS 2011, the 17th International Symposium on Particles, Strings and Cosmology, is now open. This conference will be held in the University of Cambridge, UK, in their award-winning Centre for Mathematical Sciences from 3rd to 8th July 2011. The aim of the conference is to explore and develop synergies between particle physics, string theory and cosmology. This is a particularly timely meeting given ongoing flagship experiments like the Large Hadron Collider at CERN and the Planck satellite. We have booked an international line-up of 26 speakers, all of them leaders in these fields. Registration for PASCOS 2011 costs GBP 160 (a discounted rate of GBP 100 applies to PhD students); this includes all talks, the Sunday evening reception and lunches. Accommodation and the conference banquet are charged separately. If you wish to attend PASCOS 2011, you may register online by going to: http://www.damtp.cam.ac.uk/research/gr/workshops/PASCOS/2011/ Select the section marked 'Registration', then click on the link 'PASCOS 2011 Online Booking'. The PASCOS website gives further information on speakers, accommodation and where to find us. Any problems, please e-mail: pascos[at]damtp.cam.ac.uk. Please note that places are strictly limited and the meeting is expected to be over-subscribed, so register early. +++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++ 1.7 Grav11 (Second Circular) ---------------------------- Announcement on Hyperspace@AEI: http://hyperspace.aei.mpg.de/2011/02/17/grav11/ Starting Mon, Apr 11, 2011 to Fri, Apr 15, 2011 Location: La Cumbre, Argentina Additional Information: http://www.famaf.unc.edu.ar/grupos/grg/grav11/ Grav11 is the fourth meeting in a series of conferences on general relativity and gravitation organized starting the year 2006 by the GRG group at FaMAF, Universidad Nacional de Córdoba: http://www.famaf.unc.edu.ar/grupos/grg/grge.html This year the conference will be held at the hostal Cruz Chica in the city of La Cumbre, 90kms from Córdoba, the week starting on April 11th. A partial list of speakers is: * Andrés Aceña, AEI, Germany. * Florian Beyer, University of Otago, New Zealand. * Mario Díaz, The Unversity of Texas at Brownsville, USA. * Helmut Friedrichs, AEI, Germany * Luis Lehner, Perimeter Institute, Canada. * Jorge Pullin, LSU, USA. * Martin Reiris, AEI, Germany. * Daniel Sudarsky, UNAM, México. * Robert Wald, Universty of Chicago, USA. For updated information on the conference please check the web page at http://www.famaf.unc.edu.ar/grupos/grg/grav11/ Please note the following deadlines: registration: March 4th, 2011 abstract submission: March 18th, 2011 If you do not speak Spanish we suggest that, after registering, you contact any of the organizers (see below) to assist you with travel arrangements and hotel booking. If you do speak Spanish, you should book your hotel room by calling any of the numbers +54-3548-452780 / 452743, or by e-mail to reservas[at]hostalcruzchica.com.ar When making the reservation please mention that you are attending the Grav11 meeting. The hotel special fare for the meeting is $225/day including all meals (one person, sharing a double room), $282 (one person, single room). The exchange rate is 1$=0.25 US dollars. Students and young researchers may apply for financial help to cover their living expenses. Please note that due to organizational procedures, no request of financial help will be considered for late applications. We look forward to seeing you in La Cumbre. The organizing committee: Sergio Dain, Gustavo Dotti, Omar Ortiz +++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++ 1.8 8th Constantine International Conference on Progress in Theoretical Physics ------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Announcement on Hyperspace@AEI: http://hyperspace.aei.mpg.de/2011/02/15/8th-constantine-international-confe… Starting Sun, Oct 23, 2011 to Tue, Oct 25, 2011 Location: Constantine, Algeria Additional Information: http://highenergy2011.com This 8th International Conference on Progress in Theoretical Physics at Mentouri University of Constantine (Algeria) is pursuing the tradition of the previous ones as being a meeting ground for exchange and for keeping updated on the latest advances in theoretical physics. The conference will take place from Oct. 23 to Oct. 25 2011. +++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++ 1.9 14th Capra Meeting on Radiation Reaction in General Relativity ------------------------------------------------------------------ Announcement on Hyperspace@AEI: http://hyperspace.aei.mpg.de/2011/02/09/14th-capra-meeting-on-radiation-rea… Starting Mon, Jul 04, 2011 to Fri, Jul 08, 2011 Location: Southampton, UK Additional Information: http://www.soton.ac.uk/capra Registration is now open for the 2011 Capra Meeting, to be held at the University of Southampton (UK) on 4-8 July 2011. For more information, and a registration form, please visit http://www.soton.ac.uk/capra Early registration is advised! Best wishes, Sam Dolan Niels Warburton Sarp Akcay Leor Barack +++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++ 1.10 2011 Numerical Relativity - Data Analysis (NRDA) meeting ------------------------------------------------------------- Announcement on Hyperspace@AEI: http://hyperspace.aei.mpg.de/2011/02/08/numerical-relativity-data-analysis-… Starting Sun, Jul 10, 2011 to Tue, Jul 12, 2011 Location: Cardiff, UK Additional Information: http://www.nrda2011.org The 2011 Numerical Relativity - Data Analysis (NRDA) meeting will be held in Cardiff from July 10-12. The NRDA meetings bring together numerical relativists who simulate sources of gravitational radiation, and data analysts who search for these signals in gravitational-wave detector data. This years' meeting will be held in conjunction with the 9th Edoardo Amaldi Conference on Gravitational Waves, which will run from July 11-15. Registration will open soon, with options for registration to either NRDA (Sunday to Tuesday), Amaldi (Monday to Friday) or both meetings (Sunday to Friday). More information can be found at http://www.nrda2011.org . +++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++ 1.11 INT program announcement - Astrophysical Transients -------------------------------------------------------- Announcement on Hyperspace@AEI: http://hyperspace.aei.mpg.de/2011/02/02/int-program-announcement-astrophysi… Starting Mon, Jul 11, 2011 to Fri, Aug 05, 2011 Location: Seattle, WA, USA Additional Information: http://www.int.washington.edu/PROGRAMS/11-2b/ We are glad to announce the upcoming INT Program, "Astrophysical Transients: Multi-Messenger Probes of Nuclear Physics", to take place at the Institute for Nuclear Theory in Seattle, July 11 to August 5, 2011. The program will bring together nuclear physicists, astrophysicists, and observational astronomers to address current issues and identify new directions in the study of explosive and transient astrophysical phenomena. The program will emphasize study of astrophysical phenomena through their multi-messenger and multi-wavelength signals, and will bring together observations in the optical band, x-rays, gamma rays, gravitational waves, and neutrinos. Lodging and per diem for participants will be covered by the INT. Due to space restrictions, attendance will be limited to about 20 participants during each week of the four-week program. More details about the program and an application form can be found at: http://www.int.washington.edu/PROGRAMS/11-2b/ If you are interested in attending, please fill out the on-line registration form. We hope to see you in Seattle! Ed Brown - Michigan State University Chris Fryer - Los Alamos National Laboratory Bennett Link - Montana State University Sanjay Reddy - Los Alamos National Laboratory ================================================================= 2. Jobs ================================================================= 2.1 Postdoctoral positions in theoretical cosmology at IISER-TVM ---------------------------------------------------------------- Announcement on Hyperspace@AEI: http://hyperspace.aei.mpg.de/2011/02/14/post-doctoral-positions-in-theoreti… Institution: Thiruvananthapuram, India Deadline: Sun, May 15, 2011 Additional Information: http://iisertvm.ac.in/~shanki IISER-Thiruvananthapuram intends to appoint two postdoctoral positions in the areas of early-universe cosmology and quantum gravity. A Ph.D. degree and relevant research experience are required for these posts, which are expected to start on or before 1st August 2011. Both these posts are funded under the Max Planck Partner group on cosmology, and the researcher will work on projects which include inflation, reheating, baryogenesis, modified gravity and quantum gravity phenomenology. The positions are available for a period of up to two years. Informal enquiries can be made to S. Shankaranarayanan <shanki[AT]iisertvm.ac.in>. Salary: Rs. 2,64,000 - Rs. 2,88,000 per annum Deadline: 15 May 2011 To apply please send CV, research statement and have at least two letters of reference sent by email to S. Shankaranarayanan <shanki[AT]iisertvm.ac.in> with the subject "Application for MP-PG positions - Candidate name". ================================================================= 3. News =================================================================

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[Hyperspace-list] Hyperspace Bulletin for February 2011
by hyperspace＠aei.mpg.de 02 Feb '11

02 Feb '11

################################################################# Table of Contents ################################################################# 1. Conferences 1.1 6th Gulf Coast Gravity Meeting 1.2 IRAP PhD and Erasmus Mundus Workshop: From Nuclei to White Dwarfs and Neutron Stars 1.3 3rd Galileo-Xu Guangqi Meeting 1.4 Black Holes VIII: Theory & Mathematical Aspects 1.5 NPPD 2011 1.6 SIGRAV Graduate School "Analogue Gravity" 1.7 Neutron Stars and Gravitational Waves: The Next Steps toward Detection 1.8 LOOPS 11: “Celebrating 25 years of Loop Quantum Gravity” 1.9 Advances and Challenges in Computational General Relativity 1.10 Iberian Gravitational-Wave Meeting 2011 1.11 Workshop and School on Higher Gauge Theory, TQFT and Quantum Gravity 2. Jobs 2.1 Postdoctoral position in Gravitational Theory at the Friedrich Schiller University, Jena 2.2 9 PhD positions in Relativistic Astrophysics - International Relativistic Astrophysics PhD Program 2.3 Postdoctoral position in Quantum Measurement and Spacetime Structure at Tata Institute 2.4 Postdoctoral Position in String Cosmology at Covilhã / Lisbon 2.5 Postdoctoral position in General Relativity and Relativistic Astrophysics at Lisbon 3. News 3.1 2011 Awards for Essays on Gravitation 3.2 New book by John D Barrow: "The Book of Universes" 3.3 Living Reviews in Relativity: "Gravitational Waves from Gravitational Collapse" (update) ================================================================= 1. Conferences ================================================================= 1.1 6th Gulf Coast Gravity Meeting ---------------------------------- Announcement on Hyperspace@AEI: http://hyperspace.aei.mpg.de/2011/01/26/6th-gulf-coast-gravity-meeting/ Starting Sun, May 15, 2011 to Mon, May 16, 2011 Location: Boca Raton, FL, USA The 6th Gulf Coast Gravity Meeting will be held May 15-16 at Florida Atlantic University in Boca Raton, Florida. The meeting will cover all aspects of gravitational physics, including numerical, experimental, classical and quantum gravity. This is an informal regional meeting, and most participants will be from the Gulf Coast area of the United States, but all outside of this region who wish to attend are more than welcome. The registration simply consists in sending an email to <engle[AT]physics.fau.edu>, with a title and short abstract if it is desired to give a talk, preferably by May 8th. Hotel reservations can be made at the Fairfield Inn & Suites Boca Raton (561-417-8585), where a block of rooms has been reserved (refer to 6th Gulf Coast Gravity Meeting). The room block will be released on April 30th. +++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++ 1.2 IRAP PhD and Erasmus Mundus Workshop: From Nuclei to White Dwarfs and Neutron Stars --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Announcement on Hyperspace@AEI: http://hyperspace.aei.mpg.de/2011/01/26/irap-phd-and-erasmus-mundus-worksho… Starting Sun, Apr 03, 2011 to Sat, Apr 09, 2011 Location: Les Houches, France Additional Information: http://astro-les-houches.in2p3.fr/ The meeting is directed by David Arnett and Remo Ruffini within the ERASMUS MUNDUS activities promoted by ICRANet within the International Relativistic Astrophysics PhD Program (IRAP PhD). Lectures will be presented by leading physicists and astrophysicists working in the interface of nuclear physics, white dwarfs, neutron star physics and black holes physics. Special attention is being devoted to the new scenarios presented by the observations of gamma ray bursts and supernovae. The Proceedings of the workshop will be published by World Scientific Publishing. Lecturers: Arnett David Casey Meakin (TBC) Chardonnet Pascal Della Valle Massimo Fuller George (TBC) Izzo Luca Lattimer Jim Mezzacappa Anthony (TBC) Nadyozhin Dmitrij K. Ott Christian Pethick Chris (TBC) Psaltis Dimitrios (TBC) Rueda Jorge A. Ruffini Remo Vereshchagin Gregory Xue She-Sheng +++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++ 1.3 3rd Galileo-Xu Guangqi Meeting ---------------------------------- Announcement on Hyperspace@AEI: http://hyperspace.aei.mpg.de/2011/01/26/3rd-galileo-xu-guangqi-meeting/ Starting Wed, Oct 12, 2011 to Sun, Oct 16, 2011 Location: Beijing, China Additional Information: http://www.icranet.org The 3rd Galileo-XuGuangqi international conference follows the 1st and the 2nd meeting of this series held on October 2009 in Shanghai – China (http://www.icranet.org/galileo-xuguangqi) and on July 2010 in Ventimiglia - Italy and Nice – France (http://www.icranet.org/2nd_galileo-xuguangqi/) The goal is to create once a year a forum for strategic exchanges between eastern and western science at the highest level dealing with relativistic astrophysics and related fundamental theoretical, experimental and observational fields. The aim is to enlarge the audience from the one strictly Chinese and Italian to one embracing European and western scientific interests and the eastern ones. Therefore a broader participation from Korea and Taiwan is encouraged, as well as a participation of scientists from Europe and the Americas. We are happy to confirm that the Proceedings of the 1st Galileo-XuGuangqi are in print and we are also assembling the ones of the second meeting. The 3rd Galileo - XuGuanqi meeting will be held on October 12-17, 2011. It represents a collaboration between ICRANet, University of Roma “Sapienza”, University of Nice “Sophia Antipolis”, Stockholm University, Free University of Berlin, ICRA, ENEA, INFN, ICTP, Observatoire de la Côte d’Azur, the National Astronomical Observatory (Beijing), the Institutes of High Energy Physics, the Institute of Theoretical Physics, the Institute for the History of Natural Sciences, the Chinese Academy of Sciences, the Tsinghua University, the Peking University, the Beijing Normal University, the Kavli Institute for Theoretical Physics at the Chinese Academy of Sciences, and the Beijing Planetarium. We have begun to work on the meeting with the local organizing committee. We have also begun to work on the scientific program with the International Organizing and the Scientific Advisory Committees. The topics discussed in the conference will be: Cosmology, GRB supernovae, Cosmic Rays, Neutrinos, AGN, High-Energy Astrophysics, General relativity, Gravitational Waves, Black Holes. The sessions will be divided in morning plenary sessions for invited speakers and the afternoon parallel sessions for contributions; posters session will be arranged as well. The contributions of the conference will be published on "International Journal of Modern Physics D (IJMPD)". Interested scientists and students can register themselves and submit title and abstract of their intended contributions on the webpage http://www.icranet.org The registration fee for non-Chinese participants is USD 300 (students USD 150) before the deadline, 30th August, 2011. After the deadline, it is USD 400 (students USD 200). For Chinese participants (including participants from Taiwan) it is Yan 800 (students Yan 400) before the deadline; Yan 1200 (students Yan 600) after deadline. The registration fee will include 5 lunches, coffee breaks and the proceedings publication. +++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++ 1.4 Black Holes VIII: Theory & Mathematical Aspects --------------------------------------------------- Announcement on Hyperspace@AEI: http://hyperspace.aei.mpg.de/2011/01/21/black-holes-viii-theory-mathematica… Starting Tue, May 10, 2011 to Sat, May 14, 2011 Location: Niagara Falls, ON, Canada Additional Information: http://www.science.uwaterloo.ca/~rbmann/home.html Black Holes VIII -- Theory & Mathematical Aspects is the 8th in a series of a research-related conferences the focus on the latest advances in the theoretical and mathematical and (increasingly) astrophysical aspects of black hole physics. This is the 8th conference in the series, which has traditionally alternated between eastern and western locations. Black Holes VIII will be held next May 2011 in Niagara Falls, a location within reach of Pearson airport, Buffalo airport USA, and is easily accessible from both Canada and the United States. The setting provides an interesting natural venue for discussion while at the same time being close to all major services. Particular attention at this meeting will be paid to problems in current research, such as exact black hole solutions of Einstein's equations in higher and lower dimensions, the search for and properties of astrophysical black holes, uniqueness theorems, black hole thermodynamics, loop-quantum gravity and string-theoretic approaches to black hole physics, new aspects of gauge-gravity duality, numerical studies of black hole collisions, critical gravitational collapse. Graduate students and postdoctoral fellows are particularly welcome. In addition to a series of invited presentations, there will be opportunities for a limited number of contributed talks. +++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++ 1.5 NPPD 2011 ------------- Announcement on Hyperspace@AEI: http://hyperspace.aei.mpg.de/2011/01/21/nppd-2011/ Starting Mon, Apr 04, 2011 to Thu, Apr 07, 2011 Location: Glasgow, Scotland, UK Additional Information: http://nppd.iopconfs.org Five Institute of Physics subject groups will be holding their annual conferences jointly under the umbrella of the Nuclear and Particle Physics Divisional Conference in 2011. The Nuclear Physics, High Energy Particle Physics, Gravitational Physics, Astroparticle Physics and Particle Accelerators and Beams Groups will meet together at the University of Glasgow from 4 Apr 2011 to 7 Apr 2011. Together, they will form one of the largest, most exciting and broadest ranged NPP divisional conferences ever held. Over the course of the four days, there will be joint plenary sessions covering topics of broad interest to all delegates, including a number of topics in experimental and theoretical gravity research. It will be an excellent opportunity to explore the interface between gravitational physics and the remit of the other four IOP groups represented at the conference. Furthermore, the 11th British Gravity (BritGrav) meeting will be held during the parallel sessions, and will provide opportunities for research students and young postdocs to present their work. The deadlines for abstract submission and early registration are approaching fast (see below). A provisional programme and instructions for abstract submission, registration and booking accommodation may be found on http://nppd.iopconfs.org/ Deadlines: abstract submission 11 Feb 2011, early registration 25 Feb 2011, registration 18 Mar 2011 +++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++ 1.6 SIGRAV Graduate School "Analogue Gravity" --------------------------------------------- Announcement on Hyperspace@AEI: http://hyperspace.aei.mpg.de/2011/01/19/sigrav-graduate-school-analogue-gra… Starting Mon, May 16, 2011 to Sat, May 21, 2011 Location: Como, Italy Additional Information: http://www.centrovolta.it/sigrav2011/ SIGRAV GRADUATE SCHOOL IN CONTEMPORARY RELATIVITY AND GRAVITATIONAL PHYISCS The Schools are directed to PH.D. students and young Post-Docs in Physics, Astronomy and Mathematics who are interested in widening their knowledge in the fields of Physical Cosmology, Relativistic Astrophysics, General Relativity, Experimental Gravity and the Modern Quantum Theories of Gravitation. The Schools wish to introduce students to current problems, highlighting their importance and potential scientific impact. Lecturers will report on theoretical, observational and experimental aspects of the research, reviewing latest achievements in the field. IX edition Analogue Gravity Villa Olmo, Como, Italy, 16-21 May 2011 PROGRAM Our knowledge of the world that surrounds us is characterized by a strong division into sectors, and Physics is no exception. Yet, remarkably, this knowledge is also streaked by "fils rouges" that connect apparently unrelated phenomena. This allows us to understand and study the physics of one area using "analogue" systems that are connected by a unifying physical concept. Analogue gravity is the study of certain aspects of gravitational interactions, most notably Hawking radiation emitted from black holes, as predicted more than 35 years ago by S. Hawking. Since the first studies initiated by W. Unruh in the early eighties, black hole and horizon analogues have been identified in a number of systems ranging from flowing fluids to flowing dielectrics. The field has made great progress in the past years and the first experimental results are now maturing. The school will give a general overview of the field of Analogue Gravity, of its main and most recent achievements and wi ll propose new challenges and open questions that are looking for answers. Courses • Survey of analogue space-times (4 hours) Matt Visser, Victoria University of Wellington, New Zealand • Black holes and Hawking radiation (4 hours) Theodore Jacobson, University of Maryland, USA • Fundamental quantum effects in the laboratory? (3 hours) Ralf Schützhold, Universität Duisburg-Essen, Germany • Dumb holes - what are they, how do they work (3 hours) William Unruh, University of British Colombia, Canada • Analogue gravity, Hawking radiation and black hole lasers in Bose-Einstein condensates (3 hours) Renaud Parentani, Université Paris-Sud 11, France • Analogue gravity models in dielectrics (3 hours) Ulf Leonhardt, University of St Andrews, Scotland, UK Special lectures • Astrophysical black holes: evidence of an horizon? (2 hours) Monica Colpi, Università di Milano Bicocca, Italy • Water wave analogues of black holes (2 hours) Germain Rousseaux, CNRS, Université de Nice, France • Topology, thermodynamics and dynamics of quantum vacuum in effective theory (2 hours) Grigori Volovik, Aalto University School of Science and Technology, Finland • Quantum correlations of density fluctuations: from the radius of stars to the analogue Hawking radiation (2 hours) Iacopo Carusotto, Università di Trento, Italy • Photon emission by refractive index perturbations in dielectrics (2 hours) Daniele Faccio, Heriot-Watt University, Edinburgh, UK • Lorentz breaking EFT and observational tests (2 hours) Stefano Liberati, SISSA, Trieste, Italy • Hawking's thermal hypothesis verified in an analogue gravity system (1 hour) Silke Weinfurtner, SISSA, Trieste, Italy Scientific and Organizing Committee: Francesco Belgiorno (Polytechnic of Milan), Sergio Luigi Cacciatori (Insubria, Como), Daniele Faccio (Heriot-Watt, Edinburgh), Vittorio Gorini (Insubria, Como), Stefano Liberati (SISSA, Trieste), Ugo Moschella (Insubria, Como) SIGRAV Council: Massimo Bassan (Rome Tor Vergata), Roberto Cianci (Genoa), Monica Colpi (Milan Bicocca), Mauro Francaviglia (Turin), Adalberto Giazotto (Pisa), Luca Lusanna (Florence), Sabino Matarrese (Padua), Augusto Sagnotti (SNS, Pisa), Gaetano Vilasi (Salerno) There will be room for short communications by the participants. Those who want to submit a communication proposal should send a short abstract to grschool[AT]centrovolta.it Proponents will be informed about acceptance of their contribution in due time. REGISTRATION Participants will be accommodated in hotels near Villa Olmo and will be requested to pay an inclusive fee of EURO 700 covering accommodation (in rooms to be shared with other participants), breakfast and lunch for the duration of the school. Alternatively, participants may arrange for their own accommodation and are requested to pay only the registration fee of EURO 320, also covering lunch (the school secretary provides assistance for hotel reservation through the accommodation form available at http://www.centrovolta.it/sigrav2011/ ). Accommodation is not guaranteed after April 8th 2011. Some support to cover local expenses may be available; those who need support should mention it in their registration and send a short curriculum vitae and a summary of current research (maximum two pages A4). Please note that no support to cover travel expenses will be available. Registration forms are available on the web page http://www.centrovolta.it/sigrav2011/ or at grschool[AT]centrovolta.it For information also contact directly the Organizing Secretariat at Centro A.Volta: grschool[AT]centrovolta.it or mariagiovanna.falasconi[AT]centrovolta.it, tel. +39 031 579814, fax +39 031 573395 Further information about the School (course abstracts, schedule of lectures, etc.) is also available at the web page http://www.centrovolta.it/sigrav2011/ SPONSORS SIGRAV (Italian Society for Gravitational Physics). INFN (National Institute of Nuclear Physics). University of Insubria. Department of Physics and Mathematics of the University of Insubria at Como. SISSA, Trieste. +++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++ 1.7 Neutron Stars and Gravitational Waves: The Next Steps toward Detection -------------------------------------------------------------------------- Announcement on Hyperspace@AEI: http://hyperspace.aei.mpg.de/2011/01/18/neutron-stars-and-gravitational-wav… Starting Sun, May 22, 2011 to Sun, May 22, 2011 Location: Boston, USA Additional Information: https://www.lsc-group.phys.uwm.edu/ligovirgo/cw/public/NS/May11/ The joint Continuous Waves Search Group of the LIGO Scientific Collaboration and Virgo Collaboration will bring together experts in the neutron star, pulsar and gravitational wave communities to discuss prospects for gravitational wave detection from (or via) spinning compact objects. The workshop's primary focus is how to improve chances for success in detecting gravitational waves emitted by neutron stars, but there will also be presentations on detection of low-frequency gravitational waves by way of pulsar timing arrays and on other fundamental gravity tests using pulsars. Presentations are by invitation, but other interested astronomers and physicists are most welcome to attend and join the discussions. The workshop will be held May 22, 2011 in Boston as part of the summer AAS meeting. +++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++ 1.8 LOOPS 11: “Celebrating 25 years of Loop Quantum Gravity” ------------------------------------------------------------ Announcement on Hyperspace@AEI: http://hyperspace.aei.mpg.de/2011/01/17/loops-11-%e2%80%9ccelebrating-25-ye… Starting Mon, May 23, 2011 to Sat, May 28, 2011 Location: Madrid, Spain Additional Information: http://www.iem.csic.es/loops11/ 2nd announcement The LOOPS 11 conference will take place at the main campus of the CSIC in Madrid (SPAIN) in May 23-28, 2011. This edition will commemorate the twenty fifth anniversary of the publication by Abhay Ashtekar of the landmark paper on the "new variables" that sparked the loop quantum gravity (LQG) revolution. In addition to the expected participation of LQG researchers, we would like to invite the quantum gravity community at large to be present in this occasion as this would provide a very fruitful exchange of ideas with researchers working on other approaches to the quantization of general relativity. The purpose of the meeting is to discuss the state of the art in LQG research and review the open issues and problems that must be solved to complete the quantization of general relativity in this framework. However we would like to place special emphasis on the impact of LQG on other approaches to quantum gravity and, reciprocally, on the exploration of ideas originating in other frameworks that could be eventually beneficial for LQG. The main topics that will be covered in the conference will be: • Foundations of Quantum Gravity. • Hamiltonian Loop Quantum Gravity. • Covariant Loop Quantum Gravity and Spinfoams. • Polymer Quantization and Quantum Field Theory. • Loop Quantum Cosmology. • Black Hole Physics. • Dynamical Triangulations and other discrete approaches. • Phenomenology derived from Quantum Gravity. INVITED SPEAKERS • Abhay Ashtekar (Penn State University, USA). • Martin Bojowald (Penn State University, USA). • Alejandro Corichi (UNAM-Morelia, Mexico). • Bianca Dittrich (Albert Einstein Institute, Germany). • Kristina Giesel (Louisiana State University, USA). • Jerzy Lewandowski (Warsaw University, Poland). • Renate Loll (Utrecht University, Netherland). • Yongge Ma (Beijing Normal University, China). • Don Marolf (Univ. California-Santa Barbara, USA). • Daniele Oriti (Albert Einstein Institute, Germany). • Tomasz Pawlowski (University of New Brunswick, Canada). • Alejandro Pérez (Univ. Méditerranée, Marseille, France). • Jorge Pullin (Louisiana State University, USA). • Carlo Rovelli (Univ. Méditerranée, Marseille, France). • Hanno Sahlmann (Asia Pacific Center for Theoretical Physics, Korea). • Parampreet Singh (Perimeter Institute, Canada). • Lee Smolin (Perimeter Institute, Canada). • Thomas Thiemann (Univ. Erlangen-Nürnberg, Germany). • Madhavan Varadarajan (Raman Research Institute, India). LOCAL ORGANIZING COMMITTEE • J. Fernando Barbero González (IEM, CSIC). • Guillermo A. Mena Marugán (IEM, CSIC). • Luis J. Garay Elizondo (Univ. Complutense, Madrid). • Eduardo J. Sánchez Villaseñor (Univ. Carlos III, Madrid). • Iñaky Garay Elizondo (Univ. Erlangen-Nürnberg) • Mercedes Martín-Benito (AEI-Potsdam). • Gonzalo Olmo Alba (IFIC, CSIC). • Tomasz Pawlowski (Univ. New Brunswick). • Mikel Fernández Méndez (IEM, CSIC). • Daniel Martín de Blas (IEM, CSIC). • Javier Olmedo Nieto (IEM, CSIC). PRACTICAL INFORMATION Detailed information about registration, fees, abstract submission, accommodation, travel and financial support for participants can be found in the conference web page. http://www.iem.csic.es/loops11/ This web page will be regularly updated with the necessary information. In particular the RELEVANT DATES and deadlines will be posted there. Please note the following deadlines: • Deadline for early registration: 28 February 2011 • Deadline for late registration: 20 March 2011 • Deadline for abstract submission: 20 March 2011 • Deadline for application for financial support: 28 February 2011 • Deadline for reservations to the banquet: 15 April 2011. The registration period has been open for some time already. The fee for late registrations will be 250 €. The final decision concerning financial support will be taken shortly after 28 February 2011. So, those participants that need financial support should apply for it as soon as possible. Accommodation can be booked via the registration form that can be found in the conference web page. The web page also offers a list of cheap hotels, provided for informational purposes only, for those participants that prefer to book their hotel accommodation directly. Finally, pdf files with the conference POSTER are available for download at http://www.iem.csic.es/loops11/ Looking forward to meeting you all, The local organizing committee. +++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++ 1.9 Advances and Challenges in Computational General Relativity --------------------------------------------------------------- Announcement on Hyperspace@AEI: http://hyperspace.aei.mpg.de/2011/01/11/advances-and-challenges-in-computat… Starting Fri, May 20, 2011 to Sun, May 22, 2011 Location: Providence, RI, USA Additional Information: http://www.dam.brown.edu/ACCGR/ This workshop at Brown University will focus on the application of numerical techniques to binary blackhole simulations, extreme mass ratio inspirals, waveform analysis, and alternative formulations of the Einstein equations. Limited travel support for students and postdocs may be available. Please contact the organizers to inquire. Tentative participants Thomas Baumgarte (Bowdoin College) David Brown (North Carolina State University) Luisa Buchman (California Institute of Technology) Alessandra Buonanno (University of Maryland) Manuela Campanelli (Rochester Institute of Technology) Snorre Christiansen (University of Oslo) Matt Duez (Washington State University) Scott Field (Brown University) Chad Galley (Jet Propulsion Laboratory) Mark Hannam (Cardiff) Frank Herrmann (University of Maryland) Mike Holst (University of California San Diego) Jan Hesthaven (Brown University) Scott Hughes (Massachusetts Institute of Technology) Gharav Khanna (University of Massachusetts Dartmouth) Larry Kidder (Cornell) Pablo Laguna (Georgia Institute of Technology) Stephen Lau (University of New Mexico) Geoffrey Lovelace (Cornell University) Abdul Mroue (Canadian Institute of Theoretical Astrophysics) Christian Ott (California Institute of Technology) Harald Pfeiffer (Canadian Institute of Theoretical Astrophysics) Richard Price (University of Texas at Brownsville) Mark Scheel (Caltech) Masaru Shibata (Kyoto University) Deirdre Shoemaker (Georgia Institute of Technology) Bela Szilagyi (California Institute of Technology) Nick Taylor (California Institute of Technology) Saul Teukolsky (Cornell University) Manuel Tiglio (University of Maryland) Gerhard Zumbusch (University of Jena) +++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++ 1.10 Iberian Gravitational-Wave Meeting 2011 --------------------------------------------- Announcement on Hyperspace@AEI: http://hyperspace.aei.mpg.de/2011/01/02/iberian-gravitational-wave-meeting-… Starting Wed, Feb 02, 2011 to Fri, Feb 04, 2011 Location: Palma, Mallorca Additional Information: http://www.uib.es/depart/dfs/GRG/IberianGW11 Iberian Gravitational-Wave Meeting 2011 February 2-4 2011, University of the Balearic Islands, Mallorca Purpose: The meeting aims to stimulate interaction between researchers who are interested in the field of gravitational wave physics and astronomy in a wider sense, with a focus on research based in or connected to the communities in Spain and Portugal. The style of the meeting will be informal, with plenty of discussion time. Different groups from the Iberian community will be asked to introduce their work in overview presentations, in addition we plan for a number of contributed talks, in particular by younger researchers. Dates and venue: February 2-4 2011, Cas Jai building at the Campus of the University of the Balearic Islands. Registration: There is no registration fee, but please register at the web page http://www.uib.es/depart/dfs/GRG/IberianGW11. Financial support for accommodation of some participants will be possible. In this case accommodation will have to be booked with the conference organizers, and support should be requested when registering. Web page: For further information and registration please see http://www.uib.es/depart/dfs/GRG/IberianGW11 See for updates on the web page. Organizers: The UIB gravitational physics group, with the financial support of: - UIB: Universitat de les Illes Balears, - SEGRE: the Spanish Network on Relativity and Gravitation, - MICINN Spanish Ministry of Science and Innovation, and the Consolider-Ingenio Projects: - CPAN: the Spanish National Center for Particle Physics, Astroparticle and Nuclear Physics, - MULTIDARK: Multimessenger Approach for Dark Matter Detection. The organizing committee Carles Bona Jaume Carot Sascha Husa Denis Pollney Alicia Sintes +++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++ 1.11 Workshop and School on Higher Gauge Theory, TQFT and Quantum Gravity ------------------------------------------------------------------------- Announcement on Hyperspace@AEI: http://hyperspace.aei.mpg.de/2011/01/02/workshop-and-school-on-higher-gauge… Starting Mon, Feb 07, 2011 to Sun, Feb 13, 2011 Location: Lisbon, Portugal Additional Information: https://sites.google.com/site/hgtqgr Dear colleagues, we are pleased to announce a workshop and school in Lisbon, which we hope you will find of interest. Workshop and School on Higher Gauge Theory, TQFT and Quantum Gravity Lisbon, 10-13 February, 2011 (Workshop), 7-13 February, 2011 (School) https://sites.google.com/site/hgtqgr Provisional list of speakers: Paolo Aschieri (Alessandria) Benjamin Bahr (Cambridge) Aristide Baratin (Paris-Orsay) John Barrett (Nottingham) Rafael Diaz (Bogotá) Bianca Dittrich (Potsdam) Laurent Freidel (Perimeter) John Huerta (California) Branislav Jurco (Prague) Thomas Krajewski (Marseille) Tim Porter (Bangor) Hisham Sati (Maryland) Christopher Schommer-Pries (MIT) Urs Schreiber (Utrecht) Jamie Vicary (Oxford) Konrad Waldorf (Regensburg) Derek Wise (Erlangen) Christoph Wockel (Hamburg) Deadline for registration, proposals for talks/contributions and requests for financial support: 8th January, 2011 On behalf of the organisers, Roger Picken ================================================================= 2. Jobs ================================================================= 2.1 Postdoctoral position in Gravitational Theory at the Friedrich Schiller University, Jena -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Announcement on Hyperspace@AEI: http://hyperspace.aei.mpg.de/2011/01/31/postdoctoral-position-in-gravitatio… Institution: Jena, Germany Deadline: Thu, Mar 31, 2011 Additional Information: http://wwwsfb.tpi.uni-jena.de A two-years postdoctoral position will be available in the Transregional Collaborative Research Center ``Gravitational Wave Astronomy'' (SFB-TR7) of the Friedrich-Schiller University, Jena, Germany, http://wwwsfb.tpi.uni-jena.de/, in the research group of Professor Gerhard Schaefer, beginning July 1, 2011. The research to be performed is on the analytic motion and wave emission of gravitationally interacting compact binaries with spin. Send curriculum vitae and three letters of reference via email to gos[AT]tpi.uni-jena.de . The deadline for application is March 31, 2011. Prof. Dr. G. Schaefer TPI, FSU Jena Max-Wien-Platz 1 07743 Jena Germany +++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++ 2.2 9 PhD positions in Relativistic Astrophysics - International Relativistic Astrophysics PhD Program ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------ Announcement on Hyperspace@AEI: http://hyperspace.aei.mpg.de/2011/01/28/9-phd-positions-available-with-fund… Deadline: Mon, Feb 28, 2011 Additional Information: http://www.irap-phd.org PhD Admissions and Funding at the International Relativistic Astrophysics PhD Program Consortium (IRAP PhD). The coordinating Institution is the University of Nice Sophia-Antipolis located in the French Riviera. The IRAP PhD program intends to create the condition of high level education in Relativistic Astrophysics to create a new generation of leading scientists. Each student admitted to the Ph.D. program will be part of a team inside one of the laboratories of the consortium. They will have the opportunity to work in the laboratories of the consortium and be introduced to new topics in the forefront research by internationally recognized experts. In this way the students will come in direct contact with some of the leading scientists in the world working in the theoretical fields of general relativity, relativistic astrophysics, cosmology and in quantum field theories. They will also have access to observations from the leading observatories in space missions in infrar ed, x and gamma rays wavelengths, as well as to the new generation of large optical telescopes on the ground and ino’s underground observatories. This research is by its nature international and we have identified for this collaborative effort some of the leading European Universities in these fields linked to a vast international collaboration worldwide. The Degree will be a joint one of all the participating Academic institutions. Students strongly motivated in the study of relativistic astrophysics and fundamental physics and mathematics are encouraged to apply. The Partners of the Consortium are: UNIVERSITE DE NICE - SOPHIA ANTIPOLIS, France (Co-ordinating institution) - SHANGHAI ASTRONOMICAL OBSERVATORY, China - FREE UNIVERSITY OF BERLIN, Germany - AEI - POTSDAM, Germany - TARTU OBSERVATORY, Estonia - STOCKHOLM UNIVERSITY, Sweden - UNIVERSITY OF FERRARA, Italy - UNIVERSITY OF ROME - LA SAPIENZA, Italy - BRAZILIAN CENTRE FOR PHYSICS RESEARCH, Brazil - OBSERVATORY OF THE CÔTE D'AZUR, France - INDIAN CENTRE FOR SPACE PHYSICS, India - ICRA and ICRANet - UNIVERSITY OF SAVOIE, France Director of the course: Prof. Remo Ruffini PhD students will receive a very competitive salary (gross salary 2800 Euros per month and a 7500 Euro installation grant for non-European students), computing facilities and support for travel, and comprehensive benefits including paid vacation, health care insurance and retirement benefits. To be eligible, applicants should have obtained a Masters degree in astronomy, astrophysics, theoretical physics or a related field. We encourage applications from the best candidates irrespective of nationality, gender or background. Student research will be carried out in the framework of the IRAP PhD Consortium. They will obtain a joint PhD diploma. Consult the web page: http://www.irap-phd.org for details and application instructions. All inquiries should be directed to Prof. Pascal Chardonnet: chardonnet[at]lapp.in2p3.fr. Applicants are requested send a curriculum vitae, an application form, a list of all university courses taken and transcripts of grades obtained, brief statements of research interests and experience, and the contact information for at least two referees. Applications received by the deadline of February 28, 2011 will receive full consideration. +++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++ 2.3 Postdoctoral position in Quantum Measurement and Spacetime Structure at Tata Institute ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------ Announcement on Hyperspace@AEI: http://hyperspace.aei.mpg.de/2011/01/20/post-doctoral-position-in-quantum-m… Institution: Mumbai, India Deadline: Mon, Feb 28, 2011 Additional Information: http://www.tifr.res.in/~tpsingh A two year project post-doctoral position starting 1st May, 2011 and funded by the John Templeton Foundation will be available at the Tata Institute of Fundamental Research. The area of research is the Quantum Measurement Problem, and the exact title of the project is `The need to reformulate quantum mechanics without classical spacetime, the consequent nonlinearity, and its potential to solve the measurement problem'. The project team members are T. P. Singh (TIFR), Angelo Bassi (Trieste), Kinjalk lochan (TIFR) and Cenalo Vaz (Cincinnati). Interested applicants may please send their CV, list of publications, and names and email addresses of three referees to T. P. Singh by email to tpsingh[AT]tifr.res.in +++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++ 2.4 Postdoctoral Position in String Cosmology at Covilhã / Lisbon ----------------------------------------------------------------- Announcement on Hyperspace@AEI: http://hyperspace.aei.mpg.de/2011/01/17/postdoctoral-position-in-string-cos… Institution: Covilhã / Lisbon, Portugal Deadline: Sun, Feb 20, 2011 Additional Information: http://www.dfis.ubi.pt/~pmoniz The Centro Multidisciplinar de Astrofisica (CENTRA) invites applications for a postdoctoral position in the area of Cosmology, namely string cosmology . The appointment is for three years, subject to funding renewal and satisfactory performance. The call is made within the Welcome II program, which is now open. The complete set of requirements are specified here: http://alfa.fct.mctes.pt/apoios/contratacaodoutorados/welcome2/ The candidates to the program should send the applications to the CENTRA member email indicated below. If the CENTRA member agrees, CENTRA can support the application to the FCT Welcome II program. Due to the nature of the funding, all candidates must: i) be European and hold a Ph.D. in Physics ii) currently and for the past three years been working outside Europe. A tentative date for the appointment is September 1, 2011 (with possible variations to be agreed upon with the successful applicant). The appointment is for three years. The Centro Multidisciplinar de Astrofsica (CENTRA) is a research centre of the Instituto Superior Tecnico (IST) in Lisbon, a leading research Institution in Portugal. Most CENTRA members are professors at the Physics Department of IST. This post requires collaboration with the CENTRA researchers at UBI (Universidade da Beira Interior). More information on the Center can be found at http://centra.ist.utl.pt/. Research in string cosmology at Centra focuses within an interesting range of directions and from strong ties with groups in other institutions (see, e.g., http://www.dfis.ubi.pt/~pmoniz) The applicant is expected to contribute to the efforts of the CENTRA researchers at UBI and to the training of students. Applicants should send a curriculum vitae, a list of publications, a statement of research interests (with an exciting (!) research proposal) and three letters of recommendation to the following e-mail address: pmoniz[AT]ubi.pt Please use the subject "Welcome II - String Cosmology ". Applications should be received by Feb 20, 2011. Incomplete applications shall not be considered. Screening of applicants will begin on March 1, 2010 and will continue until the position is filled. For more information please contact Paulo Moniz (pmoniz[AT]ubi.pt). These positions are supported by Fundação para a Ciencia e Tecnologia (FCT). +++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++ 2.5 Postdoctoral position in General Relativity and Relativistic Astrophysics at Lisbon --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Announcement on Hyperspace@AEI: http://hyperspace.aei.mpg.de/2011/01/11/postdoctoral-position-in-general-re… Institution: Lisbon, Portugal Deadline: Sun, Feb 20, 2011 Additional Information: http://centra.ist.utl.pt/ Postdoctoral position in General Relativity and Relativistic Astrophysics (including gravitational waves, black holes, compact objects, and numerical relativity). The Centro Multidisciplinar de Astrofisica (CENTRA) invites applications for a postdoctoral position in the area of General Relativity and Relativistic Astrophysics, including gravitational wave research, black holes, compact objects and Numerical Relativity. The appointment is for three years, subject to funding renewal and satisfactory performance. Due to the nature of the funding, all candidates must: i) be European and hold a Ph.D. in Physics ii) currently and for the past three years been working outside Europe. A tentative date for the appointment is September 1, 2011 (with possible variations to be agreed upon with the successful applicant). The appointment is for three years, the salary is 60,000 Euros per year or higher, depending on the experience of the researcher. The Centro Multidisciplinar de Astrofsica (CENTRA) is a research centre of the Instituto Superior Tecnico (IST) in Lisbon, a leading research Institution in Portugal. Most CENTRA members are professors at the Physics Department of IST. More information on the Center can be found at http://centra.ist.utl.pt/ The gravity group is currently focusing on phenomenology of black hole physics and numerical relativity, and is composed of Vitor Cardoso and José P. S. Lemos, several postdocs and PhD students. The group has strong ties with gravity groups in other institutions, such as the Universities of Rome, Aveiro, Barcelona, São Paulo, and Mississippi. The applicant is expected to contribute to the efforts of the group and to the training of students. Applicants should send a curriculum vitae, a list of publications, a statement of research interests (with an exciting research proposal) and three letters of recommendation to the following e-mail address: jobs_gravity[at]ist.utl.pt Please use the subject "Welcome II". Applications should be received by Feb 20, 2011. Incomplete applications shall not be considered. Screening of applicants will begin on March 1, 2010 and will continue until the position is filled. ================================================================= 3. News ================================================================= 3.1 2011 Awards for Essays on Gravitation ------------------------------------------ Announcement on Hyperspace@AEI: http://hyperspace.aei.mpg.de/2011/01/27/2011-awards-for-essays-on-gravitati… Additional Information: http://www.gravityresearchfoundation.org In 2011 for our sixty-second competition, the trustees are offering five Awards for short Essays for the purpose of stimulating thought and encouraging work on Gravitation. The stipulations follow: (1) We will make these Awards on May 15, 2011 for the best essays, 1500 words or less (excluding abstracts, diagrams, references and minimal equations), on the subject of Gravitation, its theory, applications, or effects. (2) The First Award will be $4000.00 The Second Award will be 1250.00 The Third Award will be 1000.00 The Fourth Award will be 750.00 The Fifth Award will be 500.00 (3) Essays must be in English and e-mailed in a single PDF file before April 1, 2011. Page numbering and early submission is greatly encouraged. One essay only will be accepted from each author. Notify us if you do not receive an e-mail confirmation within 48 hours. (4) Cover pages should include essay title; authors' names, addresses and e-mail addresses; the statement: "Essay written for the Gravity Research Foundation 2011 Awards for Essays on Gravitation"; submission date; and a summary paragraph of 125 words or less. (5) The decision of the judges will be final, no reviews will be provided and no essays will be returned. (6) The list of winners will be posted on our website: http://www.gravityresearchfoundation.org on or about May 15, 2011. All participants will receive a general e-mail notification. (7) The five award-winning essays will be published in the Journal of General Relativity and Gravitation (GRG) and, subsequently, in a special issue of the International Journal of Modern Physics D (IJMPD). Authors of all other essays are free and encouraged to publish their essays after May 15th. Authors of essays designated Honorable Mention will be invited to submit their essays to the IJMPD where these may undergo additional refereeing at editorial discretion for possible publication. Submission e-mail address: George M. Rideout, Jr., President (grideoutjr[at]aol.com) Recent First Award Winners: 2010 - Mark Van Raamsdonk, University of British Columbia, Vancouver 2009 - Alexander Burinskii, Russian Academy of Sciences, Russia 2008 - T. Padmanabhan, IUCAA, Pune, India 2007 - S. Carlip, University of California at Davis 2006 - Vijay Balasubramanian, University of Pennsylvania; Donald Marolf, University of California at Santa Barbara and Moshe Rozali, University of British Columbia 2005 - John Ellis, CERN; N. E. Mavromatos, King's College London and D. V. Nanopoulos, Texas A&M University 2004 - Maulik Parikh, Columbia University, New York 2003 - Martin Bojowald, The Pennsylvania State University 2002 - Steven B. Giddings, University of California at Santa Barbara and Stanford University, Stanford, California 2001 - Csaba Csaki and Joshua Erlich, Los Alamos National Lab and Christophe Grojean, University of California at Berkeley 2000 - Arthur Lue and Erick J. Weinberg, Columbia University, New York 1999 - John Ellis, CERN; N. E. Mavromatos, University of Oxford and D. V. Nanopoulos, Texas A and M University 1998 - Viqar Husain, University of British Columbia, Vancouver 1997 - Robert Myers, McGill University, Quebec 1996 - D. V. Ahluwalia, Los Alamos National Lab and C. Burgard, Universitaet Hamburg/DESY, II, Germany +++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++ 3.2 New book by John D Barrow: "The Book of Universes" ------------------------------------------------------ Announcement on Hyperspace@AEI: http://hyperspace.aei.mpg.de/2011/01/27/new-book-by-john-d-barrow-the-book-… New Book Published 2 Feb 2011 The Book of Universes John D Barrow Publ. Bodley Head, Random House, UK 354 Pages, 12 chapters, b/w illustrations and photographs Description: This book for a general audience tells the story of how Einstein's equations provided a succession of solutions describing possible universes. It follows the history of the discovery of all the different sorts of possible universes that we know about and introduces the characters involved. It describes the latest ideas about inflationary universes, quantum cosmology and multiverses, as well as the best buy model of the observable universe today. +++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++ 3.3 Living Reviews in Relativity: "Gravitational Waves from Gravitational Collapse" (update) -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Announcement on Hyperspace@AEI: http://hyperspace.aei.mpg.de/2011/01/21/living-reviews-in-relativity-gravit… Additional Information: http://www.livingreviews.org/lrr-2011-1 Living Reviews in Relativity has published a major update of the review "Gravitational Waves from Gravitational Collapse" by Chris L. Fryer and Kimberly C.B. New on January 20, 2011. Please find the abstract and further details below. ------------------ PUB.NO. lrr-2011-1 Fryer, Chris L. and New, Kimberly C. B. "Gravitational Waves from Gravitational Collapse" ACCEPTED: 2011-01-14 PUBLISHED: 2011-01-20 FULL ARTICLE AT: http://www.livingreviews.org/lrr-2011-1 UPDATE: We have significantly altered and restructured the text of the previous version, describing the latest results from a new point of view. New figures have been added. The number of references has increased from 271 to 350. ABSTRACT: Gravitational wave emission from stellar collapse has been studied for nearly four decades. Current state-of-the-art numerical investigations of collapse include those that use progenitors with more realistic angular momentum profiles, properly treat microphysics issues, account for general relativity, and examine non-axisymmetric effects in three dimensions. Such simulations predict that gravitational waves from various phenomena associated with gravitational collapse could be detectable with ground-based and space-based interferometric observatories. This review covers the entire range of stellar collapse sources of gravitational waves: from the accretion induced collapse of a white dwarf through the collapse down to neutron stars or black holes of massive stars to the collapse of supermassive stars. UPCOMING ARTICLES AT: http://relativity.livingreviews.org/Articles/upcoming.html

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[Hyperspace-list] Hyperspace Bulletin for January 2011
by hyperspace＠aei.mpg.de 02 Jan '11

02 Jan '11

################################################################# Table of Contents ################################################################# 1. Conferences 1.1 From Nuclei to White Dwarfs and Neutron Stars 1.2 RUSGRAV-14: International Conference on Gravitation, Cosmology and Astrophysics 1.3 Hot topics in Modern Cosmology - Spontaneous Workshop V 1.4 Grav11 (First Announcement) 1.5 27th Pacific Coast Gravity Meeting 1.6 The Chalonge School 15th Paris Cosmology Colloquium 2011 1.7 Chalonge School CIAS Workshop 2011 "Warm Dark Matter in Galaxies: Theoretical and Observational Progresses" 1.8 Microphysics in Computational Relativistic Astrophysics at PI 2. Jobs 2.1 Postdoctoral Position in Gravitational-Wave Physics at Tübingen 2.2 Leader of Max Planck Research Group in conjunction with Professorship for Geometric Analysis (W2) 2.3 Postdoctoral positions at SISSA Astrophysics 2.4 Postdoc and PhD Position in Numerical Relativity at Jena 2.5 Postdoctoral positions at University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee 2.6 International Relativistic Astrophysics PhD: 2011 Announcement 3. News 3.1 Problem Book in Relativity and Gravitation available online ================================================================= 1. Conferences ================================================================= 1.1 From Nuclei to White Dwarfs and Neutron Stars ------------------------------------------------- Announcement on Hyperspace@AEI: http://hyperspace.aei.mpg.de/2010/12/31/from-nuclei-to-white-dwarfs-and-neu… Starting Sun, Apr 03, 2011 to Sat, Apr 09, 2011 Location: Les Houches, France Additional Information: http://www.icranet.org The meeting is directed by David Arnett and Remo Ruffini within the ERASMUS MUNDUS and ICRANet activities in the International Relativistic Astrophysics Ph. D. Program. Lectures will be presented by leading Physicists and Astrophysicists working in the interface of Nuclear Physics, White Dwarfs, Neutron Star Physics and Black Holes Physics. Special attention is being devoted to the new scenarios presented by the observations of Gamma Ray Bursts. +++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++ 1.2 RUSGRAV-14: International Conference on Gravitation, Cosmology and Astrophysics ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Announcement on Hyperspace@AEI: http://hyperspace.aei.mpg.de/2010/12/30/14th-russian-gravitational-conferen… Starting Mon, Jun 27, 2011 to Sat, Jul 02, 2011 Location: Ulyanovsk, Russia Additional Information: http://rusgrav14.ulspu.ru The 14th Russian Gravitational Conference - International Conference on Gravitation, Cosmology and Astrophysics – RUSGRAV-14 is to be held in Ulyanovsk at Ulyanovsk State Pedagogical University, on June 27 – July 2, 2011. The program of the conference and the school-seminar will include plenary and sectional reports, poster session for young scientists, graduate students and undergraduates. Featured also are informal discussions on such issues as: the latest developments in the theory of gravitation, quantum gravity and cosmology, theories with extra dimensions, theoretical and observational cosmology and astrophysics, gravitational experiments, fundamental constants and related topics. +++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++ 1.3 Hot topics in Modern Cosmology - Spontaneous Workshop V ----------------------------------------------------------- Announcement on Hyperspace@AEI: http://hyperspace.aei.mpg.de/2010/12/20/hot-topics-in-modern-cosmology-spon… Starting Mon, May 09, 2011 to Sat, May 14, 2011 Location: Cargèse, France Additional Information: http://www.cpt.univ-mrs.fr/~cosmo/SW_2011/SW5.html Spontaneous Workshop (SW) brings together specialists on recent insights in Particle Physics, Astrophysics and Cosmology. The aim is to stimulate debates on common topics in views of providing us with innovating ideas. The workshop will take place in Cargèse (France), on 9 - 14 May 2011. The workshop’s organization is based on an optimal number of concise presentations and enough space for discussions on emergent problems in order to favour interactions among participants. SW5 topics includes : * Cosmological parameters – Anomalies in CMB * Baryon and Lepton number violation, CP violation * LHC and Dark Matter - Astroparticle Physics * Neutrino Cosmology * Baryogenesis and Leptogenesis - Cosmic antimatter * Inflation - Dark Energy – Modified Gravity * Cosmological Large Scale Structures, Magnetic Fields * Gravitational waves of Cosmological and Astrophysical origin +++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++ 1.4 Grav11 (First Announcement) ------------------------------- Announcement on Hyperspace@AEI: http://hyperspace.aei.mpg.de/2010/12/20/grav11-first-announcement/ Starting Mon, Apr 11, 2011 to Fri, Apr 15, 2011 Location: La Cumbre, Córdoba, Argentina Additional Information: http://www.famaf.unc.edu.ar/grupos/grg/grav11 We are pleased to announce that the conference Grav11 will be held in La Cumbre, Córdoba (Argentina), from April 11th through April 15th, 2011. The venue of the conference is the Hostal Cruz Chica: http://www.hostalcruzchica.com.ar/ This is the fourth in a new series ("Grav") of conferences organized by the General Relativity and Gravitation Group at FaMAF (Universidad Nacional de Córdoba) since the year 2006. We expect to have a Grav meeting every two years from now on. The conference is intended to bring together specialists working on gravitation and closely related topics, including classical and quantum gravity, gravity in arbitrary dimensions, astrophysics and astro-particle physics. Graduate students and advanced undergraduate students are encouraged to apply, some funds will be available to cover living expenses for students, as well as postdocs and young researchers. The working languages of the conference will be English (mostly), and Spanish. A preliminary (as of December 2010) list of confirmed speakers includes: Andrés Aceña, AEI, Germany. Florian Beyer, University of Otago, New Zealand. Mario Díaz, The Unversity of Texas at Brownsville, USA. Helmut Friedrichs, AEI, Germany. Heinz O. Kreiss, KTH, Sweden. Luis Lehner, Perimeter Institute, Canada. Jorge Pullin, LSU, USA. Martin Reiris, AEI, Germany. Robert Wald, Universty of Chicago, USA. For updates on the Grav11 meeting please check the web page: http://www.famaf.unc.edu.ar/grupos/grg/grav11 Applications should be filed through the webform in the above page before March 4th, 2011. The deadline for abstract submissions is March 18th, 2011. For further information on the General Relativity and Gravitation group at FaMAF and the previous Grav meetings see http://www.famaf.unc.edu.ar/grupos/grg/grge.html Information on how to handle hotel reservations will be provided in a second circular. +++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++ 1.5 27th Pacific Coast Gravity Meeting -------------------------------------- Announcement on Hyperspace@AEI: http://hyperspace.aei.mpg.de/2010/12/08/27th-pacific-coast-gravity-meeting/ Starting Fri, Mar 18, 2011 to Sat, Mar 19, 2011 Location: Pasadena, CA, USA Additional Information: http://www.tapir.caltech.edu/~pcgm27/ The 27th Pacific Coast Gravity Meeting will be held at the California Institute of Technology, Pasadena, California, on March 18 and 19, 2011. In keeping with its tradition, this will be an open, relaxed, and informal conference. We are inviting researchers and students interested in all areas of gravitational physics: classical and quantum gravity, general relativistic astrophysics and cosmology, quantum cosmology, gravitational waves, and experimental gravity. Because this is a regional meeting, many attendees will be from the western United States, but all are welcome. Talks Following the usual tradition all participants, and especially postdocs and graduate students, are encouraged to contribute short, introductory talks on their current research, with the aim of fostering communication and understanding among gravitational physicists with different backgrounds. Speakers will be given equal time (between 10 and 15 minutes, including a question period). Graduate students and postdocs will be given first priority if there are more requests to speak than available time slots. A prize (sponsored by the APS Topical Group on Gravity) will be awarded for the best talk given by a student at the meeting. Program The 27th PCGM will begin at 9am, on March 18, in Hameetman Auditorium, Cahill Center for Astronomy and Astrophysics, Caltech (see the Practical Information page of the meeting web site for directions). The Scientific Program will be posted on the meeting website shortly before the meeting, and will be distributed to registered participants on March 13, 2011. All participants are asked to register on the meeting web site or by e-mail by 11 March, 2011. More information will be posted on the meeting web site as it becomes available: http://www.tapir.caltech.edu/~pcgm27/ +++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++ 1.6 The Chalonge School 15th Paris Cosmology Colloquium 2011 ------------------------------------------------------------ Announcement on Hyperspace@AEI: http://hyperspace.aei.mpg.de/2010/12/07/the-chalonge-school-15th-paris-cosm… Starting Wed, Jul 20, 2011 to Fri, Jul 22, 2011 Location: Paris, France Additional Information: http://www.chalonge.obspm.fr/colloque2011.html Ecole Internationale Daniel Chalonge The Chalonge School 15th Paris Cosmology Colloquium 2011 " From Cold Dark Matter to Warm Dark Matter in the Standard Model of the Universe: Theory and Observations " The International School Daniel Chalonge: 20 Years of Activity The Conference is within the astrofundamental physics spirit of the Chalonge School, focalized on recent observational and theoretical progress on the CMB, dark matter, dark energy, dark ages, and the theory of the early universe with predictive power in the context of the Standard Model of the Universe. Recently, LambdaWDM (Warm Dark Matter) emerged impressively over LambdaCDM (Cold Dark Matter) whose small -galactic- scale (and even larger scale) problems are ever-increasing. LambdaWDM solves naturally the problems of LambdaCDM and agree with the observations at small as well as large and cosmological scales. In summary, the aim of the meeting is to put together the recent cosmological and astrophysical data and hard theory predictive approach connected to them in the framework of the Standard Model of the Universe. TOPICS: Observational and theoretical progress on the nature of dark matter: keV scale dark matter particles. Dark energy: cosmological constant: the quantum energy of the cosmological vacuum. Large and small scale structure formation in agreement with observations at large scales and small (galactic) scales. The ever increasing problems of LambdaCDM. The emergence of Warm (keV scale) Dark Matter from theory and observations. The analysis of the CMB+LSS+SN data with the effective (Ginsburg-Landau) effective theory of inflation: New Inflation (double well inflaton potential) strongly favored by the CMB + LSS + SN data: The presence of the lower bound for the primordial gravitons (non vanishing tensor to scalar ratio r) with the present CMB + LSS + SN data. CMB polarization and forecasts for Planck. Neutrinos in cosmology. The new serious dark matter candidate: Sterile neutrinos at the keV scale. All Lectures are followed by a discussion. All participants are invited to take part in the discussions. The Meeting is open to all scientists interested in the subject but Registration is mandatory. The format of the Meeting is intended to allow easy and fruitful mutual contact and communication. Sessions last for three full days in the beautiful parisian campus of Observatoire de Paris (built on orders from Colbert and to plans by Claude Perrault from 1667 to 1672). All sessions take place at the Salle Cassini (Cassini Hall) in the historic Perrault building ("Bâtiment Perrault") of Observatoire de Paris HQ. All Coffee-Tea breaks take place at the "Salle du Conseil" under the portraits of Laplace, Le Verrier, Lalande, Arago, Delambre and Louis XIV. The Registration desk and the Secretariat of the Colloquium take place at the "Grande Galerie" (Great Gallery) just aside facing Salle du Conseil EXHIBITION: An exhibition at the "Grand Galerie" (Great Gallery) and "Salle Cassini" (Cassini Hall) will retrace the 20 years of activity of the Chalonge School and "The Golden Days" in "Astrofundamental Physics": The Construction of the Standard Model Of the Universe, as well as the Exhibition "The World High Altitude Observatories Network: World Cultural and Scientific Heritage". The books and proceedings of the School since its creation, as well as historic Daniel Chalonge material, Prizes and Chalonge instruments will be on exhibition at the Great Gallery. Informations about this Colloquium, participation information and background information are displayed at the Chalonge School web site: http://www.chalonge.obspm.fr/colloque2011.html Informations on the previous Paris Cosmology Colloquia and of the school events are available at http://chalonge.obspm.fr (lecturers, lists of participants, lecture pdf files and photos during the Colloquia). Early Registration is strongly encouraged With compliments and kind regards, Chalonge.Ecole[AT]obspm.fr http://chalonge.obspm.fr +++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++ 1.7 Chalonge School CIAS Workshop 2011 "Warm Dark Matter in Galaxies: Theoretical and Observational Progresses" --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Announcement on Hyperspace@AEI: http://hyperspace.aei.mpg.de/2010/12/06/chalonge-school-cias-workshop-2011-… Starting Wed, Jun 08, 2011 to Fri, Jun 10, 2011 Location: Meudon, France Additional Information: http://www.chalonge.obspm.fr/Cias_Meudon2011.html Ecole Internationale Daniel Chalonge A Turning Point in the Research of Dark Matter: Warm Dark Matter. Theory and Observations Recently, LambdaWDM (Warm Dark Matter) emerged impressively over LambdaCDM (Cold Dark Matter) whose small galactic- scale (and even larger scale) problems are ever-increasing. LambdaWDM solves naturally the problems of LambdaCDM and agrees with the observations at small as well as large and cosmological scales. The Workshop addresses the last progresses made in Warm Dark Matter and the Universal and Non Universal properties of Galaxies. In the tradition of the Chalonge School, an effort of clarification and synthesis will be made by combining in a conceptual framework, theory, analytical, observational and numerical simulation results that reproduce observations.The subject will be approached in a threefold way: (I) Conceptual context. (II) Astronomical observations linked to the galaxy structural properties and to structure formation at different (large and small (galactic) scales). (III) Numerical simulations which reproduce observations at large and small (galactic) scales . TOPICS: Recent progress in solving the Boltzmann-Vlasov equation to obtain the observed properties of galaxies (and clusters of galaxies). N-body numerical simulations with Warm Dark Matter.The surface density . The phase-space density. Particle model independent analysis of astrophysical dark matter. The impact of the mass of the dark matter particle on the small scale structure formation. The radial profiles and the Dark Matter distribution. Cores versus Cusps. The ever increasing problems of LambdaCDM. The keV scale Dark Matter (Warm Dark Matter): Observational and theoretical progresses. Large and small scale structure formation in agreement with observations at large and small (galactic) scales. The new serious dark matter candidate: Sterile neutrinos at the keV scale. Sessions last for three full days in the beautiful Meudon campus of Observatoire de Paris, where CIAS "Centre International d´Ateliers Scientifiques" is located. All sessions take place in the historic Château building, (built in 1706 by great architect Jules-Hardouin Mansart in orders by King Louis XIV for his son the Grand Dauphin). The Meeting is open to all scientists interested in the subject. The format of the Meeting is intended to allow easy and fruitful mutual contact and communication. Informations about the Workshop, participation information and background information are displayed at the http://www.chalonge.obspm.fr/Cias_Meudon2011.html Early Registration is strongly encouraged With compliments and kind regards, Chalonge.Ecole[at]obspm.fr http://chalonge.obspm.fr/ +++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++ 1.8 Microphysics in Computational Relativistic Astrophysics at PI ----------------------------------------------------------------- Announcement on Hyperspace@AEI: http://hyperspace.aei.mpg.de/2010/12/02/microphysics-in-computational-relat… Starting Mon, Jun 20, 2011 to Sat, Jun 25, 2011 Location: Waterloo, ON, Canada This is the first circular, please note further info (webpage, deadlines, SOC, etc) will be sent in the near future. The workshop will be held at the Perimeter Institute for Theoretical Physics, Waterloo ON, Canada on June 20 - 25 2011, and will bring together leading and younger researchers in the field of numerical modeling and microscopic physics of matter and radiation at high densities where effects of general relativity play a central role. The topics covered will include improved microscopic physics inputs (neutrino-matter interactions, equations of state, thermonuclear reaction rates) and computational methods (GRMHD, radiation transport, reaction networks) with an emphasis on approaches that allow for efficient implementation of the improvements in multi-D simulations of relativistic astrophysical systems. ================================================================= 2. Jobs ================================================================= 2.1 Postdoctoral Position in Gravitational-Wave Physics at Tübingen ------------------------------------------------------------------- Announcement on Hyperspace@AEI: http://hyperspace.aei.mpg.de/2010/12/24/postdoctoral-position-in-gravitatio… Institution: Tübingen, Germany Deadline: Mon, Jan 31, 2011 Additional Information: http://www.tat.physik.uni-tuebingen.de/~kokkotas/Welcome_files/TAT_SFB_adv.… The Theoretical Astrophysics section (TAT) of the Institute of Astronomy and Astrophysics at the University of Tübingen (IAAT) has an opening for one postdoctoral research position starting from 1st of October 2011. The position will be funded via the SFB/TR7 network on “Gravitational Wave Astronomy” (http://wwwsfb.tpi.uni-jena.de/) The research activities of TAT are related to the study of sources of gravitational waves with emphasis on the dynamics of neutron stars.The successful applicant will carry out original research in projects regarding the study of the dynamics of neutron stars and/or magnetars in relation to the emission of gravitational waves. The position is limited to two years with a possible extension for one more year and the salary will be paid according to the German public service scale. Optionally, shorter duration contracts might also be considered. Applications, including a curriculum vita, a list of publications, and a statement of research interests and experience, and the names (address, email) of three potential referees should be sent to: Prof. Kostas Kokkotas Theoretical Astrophysics, University of Tübingen, Auf der Morgenstelle 10 D-72076 Tübingen / Germany http://www.tat.physik.uni-tuebingen.de/~kokkotas E-mail: kostas.kokkotas[at]uni-tuebingen.de Applications by e-mail are welcome. All applications will receive full consideration until the position is ﬁled. The University of Tübingen seeks to increase the fraction of female scientists in research and teaching and particularly encourages applications from women. Disabled candidates are given preference if equally qualified. For inquiries contact Prof. Kostas Kokkotas. Further information on the Theoretical Astrophysics Group may be found at http://www.uni-tuebingen.de/?id=3129 +++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++ 2.2 Leader of Max Planck Research Group in conjunction with Professorship for Geometric Analysis (W2) ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Announcement on Hyperspace@AEI: http://hyperspace.aei.mpg.de/2010/12/21/leader-of-max-planck-research-group… Institution: Potsdam, Germany Deadline: Thu, Jan 13, 2011 Additional Information: http://www.uni-potsdam.de/verwaltung/dezernat3/stellen/W2%20Analytische%20G… The Institute for Mathematics of the Faculty of Science at the Potsdam University in a joint appointment with Max Planck Institute for Gravitational Physics (Albert Einstein Institute) invites applications for a Leader of Max Planck Research Group in conjunction with Professorship for Geometric Analysis (W2). The position is limited for 5 years. The University of Potsdam and the Albert Einstein Institute (AEI) are looking for applicants with an excellent research record to lead an independent Max Planck Research Group in the area of Geometric Analysis, in the context of their agreement on cooperation in the areas of geometric analysis and partial differential equations. The preferred research area lies in nonlinear partial differential equations related to geometry and mathematical physics. The successful applicant is expected to participate in the supervision of PhD students and will have teaching responsibilities at the Institute for Mathematics at Potsdam University of 2 hours/semester-week. The research group will include resources for PhD scholarships and postdoctoral positions as well as research related expenses. During the term of the employment contract with the MPG the successful applicant will (according to § 38 (9) BbgHG) also be Professor at the university of Potsdam. Prerequisites for the application are a doctoral degree and a record of research equivalent to the German “Habilitation”. Scientific qualifications achieved in the private sector, outside Germany, or as Junior professor will also be considered (§ 39 BbgHG). Appointment will be made according to the laws of Brandenburg (Brandenburgisches Hochschulgesetz - BbgHG §§ 38). The University of Potsdam and the Max Planck Society are committed to support the appointment of severely handicapped people, applications are explicitly encouraged. The University of Potsdam and the Max Planck Society wish to increase the employment of woman in those areas where they are underrepresented. Women are therefore explicitly encouraged to apply. Please send your application until 13.01.2011 to Potsdam University, Office of the President, Am Neuen Palais 10, D–14469 Potsdam, Germany. +++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++ 2.3 Postdoctoral positions at SISSA Astrophysics ------------------------------------------------ Announcement on Hyperspace@AEI: http://hyperspace.aei.mpg.de/2010/12/17/postdoctoral-positions-at-sissa-ast… Institution: Trieste, Italy Deadline: Mon, Jan 31, 2011 Additional Information: http://www.sissa.it/ap The Astrophysics Sector (http://www.sissa.it/ap) of the International School for Advanced Studies of Trieste (Italy) expects to have an opening for up to three research associate (postdoc) positions starting in Fall 2011. The positions are for two years (formally 1+1 but with renewal based only on reasonable scientific performance) and can be possibly extended for a further third year. The SISSA Astrophysics Sector consists of a faculty of nine permanent members and two contract researchers. There are currently eleven postdocs and eighteen graduate students (http://www.sissa.it/ap/people.html) The research areas covered by our group include: Analysis and interpretation of cosmic microwave background and sub-mm surveys (Planck and Herschel), large scale structure and cluster physics, galaxies, dark matter, galactic and extragalactic black holes, high energy astrophysics, relativistic astrophysics, early universe physics and gravitation theory. We welcome applications from all candidates whose research interests complement or enhance those of our group. SISSA is an international and multidisciplinary PhD school, unique in Italy, pursuing research in the fields of Physics, Mathematics and Biophysical Sciences (http://www.sissa.it) SISSA has recently moved to a new building a few kilometres just outside Trieste on the hillside overlooking the city and Gulf of Trieste, and located close by the main scientific institutions of the area (ICTP, Trieste University and the Trieste Observatory). Trieste is situated in the north east of Italy, 130 km to the east of Venice and close to Slovenia, Austria and Croatia. The selected candidates are expected to take part in the scientific activity of the Sector and to carry out their own independent research. There are no compulsory teaching duties. The salary covers the cost of living in Trieste, which is less expensive than other big Italian cities like Milan and Rome, and we offer funding for travel and inviting collaborators. SISSA also offers good local computer facilities and access to regional supercomputing resources. All of our scientific activity is carried out in English (as is the administrative support) and we provide local assistance for all members: a housing office (http://www.sissa.it/main/?p=A7_B4) the Welcome Office (http://www.welcomeoffice.trieste.it) Italian classes, and a nursery for children of SISSA members (http://www.sissa.it/ap/joinourgroup.html) Applicants should register with https://academicjobsonline.org/ and then submit a cover letter, a curriculum vitae, a list of publications, a research statement giving a brief description of past research and future plans, and provide the names and email addresses of two referees who we will automatically contact. The application form is found at http://academicjobsonline.org/ajo/jobs/631 For further information or problems with the submitting your application, you can contact Dr. Lorena Bencina via email: bencina[at]sissa.it Completed applications should be received no later than January 31, 2011. +++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++ 2.4 Postdoc and PhD Position in Numerical Relativity at Jena ------------------------------------------------------------ Announcement on Hyperspace@AEI: http://hyperspace.aei.mpg.de/2010/12/10/postdoc-and-phd-position-in-numeric… Institution: Jena, Germany Deadline: Wed, Jan 05, 2011 Additional Information: http://wwwsfb.tpi.uni-jena.de The numerical relativity group at the University of Jena anticipates the availability of a postdoc position starting September 2011, and a PhD position in April 2011. The gravity group at Jena includes Marcus Ansorg, Bernd Bruegmann, Reinhard Meinel, and Gerhard Schaefer, and also involves applied mathematician Gerhard Zumbusch. There is the opportunity to participate in a wide range of research activities offered by the SFB/Transregio grant on "Gravitational Wave Astronomy", see http://wwwsfb.tpi.uni-jena.de. Applicants with a background in numerical relativity, but also in the area of gravitational wave science or associated computational methods are especially encouraged to apply. For the postdoc position, please submit a cover letter, a curriculum vitae with a list of publications, a brief description of research interests, and arrange for three letters of recommendation. For the PhD position, please submit the same except that instead of the letters only a list of potential references is requested. Submission of PDF files is preferred. Applications should be received no later than January 5, 2011, but applications will be considered until the positions are filled. In a situation where two candidates have otherwise equal qualifications, preference will be given to women, minorities, and handicapped applicants. Please send applications to: Renate Wagner, Email: r.wagner X tpi.uni-jena.de Institute of Theoretical Physics, University of Jena Max Wien Platz 1 D-07743 Jena Germany http://www.tpi.uni-jena.de +++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++ 2.5 Postdoctoral positions at University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee --------------------------------------------------------------- Announcement on Hyperspace@AEI: http://hyperspace.aei.mpg.de/2010/12/07/postdoctoral-positions-at-universit… Institution: Milwaukee, WI, USA Deadline: Sat, Jan 15, 2011 Additional Information: http://gravity.phys.uwm.edu The Center for Gravitation and Cosmology at the University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee (UWM) invites applications for a number of postdoctoral research positions. The initial appointments are for one year, with renewal for a second (and, in some cases, a third) year contingent on continued funding and satisfactory performance. The Center for Gravitation and Cosmology at UWM is one of the nation's largest and most active research groups in gravity, cosmology, astronomy, and astrophysics with nine faculty members, Luis Anchordoqui, Patrick Brady, Jolien Creighton, Dawn Erb, John Friedman, David Kaplan, Leonard Parker, Xavier Siemens, and Alan Wiseman, senior scientist Scott Koranda, visiting professor Warren Anderson, and several postdoctoral fellows and graduate students. The group also maintains a close relationship with the Albert Einstein Institutes in Hannover and Golm through Bruce Allen and Maria Alessandra Papa who hold Adjunct appointments at UWM and visit regularly. The Center has a strong gravitational-wave astronomy group working on LIGO related research, including searches for binary neutron star and black hole inspirals, continuous waves from isolated neutron stars, development and support of Einstein@Home, bursts, and stochastic background. The group is active in several grid computing collaborations including the Open Science Grid (OSG). Other research activities in the Center include cosmic ray physics with Pierre-Auger, evolution and characterization of high redshift galaxies, neutron-star astrophysics, and radio astronomy. The Center also has a nascent computational astrophysics effort. More information about the people and the research can be found at http://gravity.phys.uwm.edu . The group is recruiting postdocs in gravitational-wave astronomy and related areas. Applicants with backgrounds in astronomy, gravitational-wave physics, theoretical relativity, numerical relativity, cosmology, or high energy physics (theory and experiment) are welcome to apply. Applicants whose work overlaps any of the research interests of the group should send a C.V., publication list, and a brief statement of their research interests by email to cgcpd[at]gravity.phys.uwm.edu. Applicants should also arrange to have three letters of recommendation sent via e-mail to this address. Screening of applications will begin January 15, 2011 and will continue until all positions are filled. The University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee is an Equal Opportunity, Affirmative Action Employer. +++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++ 2.6 International Relativistic Astrophysics PhD: 2011 Announcement ------------------------------------------------------------------ Announcement on Hyperspace@AEI: http://hyperspace.aei.mpg.de/2010/12/02/international-relativistic-astrophy… Institution: several universities in ICRANET Deadline: Mon, Feb 28, 2011 Additional Information: http://www.irap-phd.org 9 Erasmus Mundus funded positions available (3 for European students, 5 for non-European students, 1 for “Western Balkans and Turkey Window" candidates) Deadlines: 28 February 2011- Erasmus Mundus program full economical support is provided 30 September 2011- nine additional fellowships Additional Information: http://www.irap-phd.org – http://www.icranet.org – http://www.icra.it Following the successful scientific space missions by the European Space Agency (ESA) and the European Southern Observatory (ESO) in Chile, as well as the high energy particle activities at CERN in Genève, we have initiated a Ph.D. programme dedicated to create a pool of scientists in the field of relativistic astrophysics. After taking full advantage of the observational and experimental facilities mentioned above, the students of our programme are expected to lead the theoretical developments of one of the most active fields of research: relativistic astrophysics. This program provides expertise in the most advanced topics of mathematical and theoretical physics, and in relativistic field theories, in the context of astronomy, astrophysics and cosmology. It provides the ability to model the observational data received from the above laboratories. This activity is necessarily international as no single university can have a scientific expertise in such a broad range of fiel ds. We announce two calls: one with a deadline on 28 February 2011, sponsored by Erasmus Mundus, and the other with a deadline on 30 September 2011. The Erasmus Mundus program has a very competitive salary as well as comprehensive benefits. The Institutions participating in the IRAP PhD are: the international organization ICRANet as coordinating institution and the University of Nice Sophia Antipolis as the host Institution; the Albert Einstein Institute, Potsdam; the Brazilian Center for Physics Research (CBPF) and ICRA Brasil; the Free University of Berlin; Indian Centre for Space Physics, Kolkata; Observatoire de la Cote D’Azur, Nice; Shanghai Astronomical Observatory, China; University of Ferrara, Italy; University of Rome, la Sapienza, Italy; University of Savoie, Annecy, France; University of Stockolm, Sweden, Tartu Observatory , Estonia. The Final Ph.D. degree will be jointly delivered by the Academic Institutions participating in the program. We encourage applications from the most qualified and motivated candidates worldwide, independent of nationality, gender or background. Special attention will be given to applicants originating from or planning to move to countries where ICRANet activities are in action or being planned. The Courses: Each student will have to follow 180 hours of courses during the three years of the Ph.D. program. There is also a possibility to follow courses from other Physics, Mathematics, Astronomy and Astrophysics Ph.D. programs in each participating institution, after approval by the Faculty. Courses can be chosen from the following list: VERY HIGH ENERGY PHENOMENA IN ASTROPHYSICS Felix AHARONIAN COSMOLOGICAL SINGULARITY Vladimir BELINSKI RELATIVISTIC EFFECTS IN ASTROPHYSICS Carlo Luciano BIANCO OBSERVERS AND OBSERVABLES IN BLACK HOLES SPACETIME Donato BINI ACCRETIONS ON BLACK HOLES Sandip Kumar CHAKRABARTI PARTICLE PHYSICS APPLIED TO ASTROPHYSICS Pascal CHARDONNET GENERAL RELATIVITY Thibault DAMOUR SUPERNOVAE AND GRBS Massimo DELLA VALLE LARGE SCALE STRUCTURE Jaan EINASTO TOPICS IN COSMOLOGY AND PARTICLE ASTROPHYSICS Li Zhi FANG X/GAMMA-RAY INSTRUMENTATION Filippo FRONTERA HIGH ENERGY ASTROPHYSICS: X-RAYS CLUSTERS Riccardo GIACCONI OBSERVATIONS OF GAMMA-RAY BURSTS Cristiano GUIDORZI FORMATION OF GALAXIES Yipeng JING ON THE KERR SOLUTION Roy KERR RELATIVISTIC FIELD THEORIES Hagen KLEINERT HOLOGRAPHY, ENTROPIC GRAVITY AND COSMOLOGY Li MIAO BOUNCING COSMOLOGY Mario NOVELLO BKL COSMOLOGY AND HIDDEN SYMMETRIES Hermann NICOLAI THE HIGH-ENERGY GAMMA-RAY UNIVERSE Marco TAVANI SPECTRAL TIMING FROM BLACK HOLE SOURCES Lev TITARCHUK SINGULARITIES AND GENERAL RELATIVITY - Kjell ROSQUIST BLACK HOLES AND FUNDAMENTAL PHYSICS Remo RUFFINI RELATIVISTIC KINETIC THEORY Gregory VERESHCHAGIN QED AND ELECTRON-POSITRON PLASMA She-Sheng XUE The Host Institution for the call of 2011-2012 is the Université de Nice-Sophia Antipolis; Grand Château 28 Avenue Valrose 21 - B.P. 2135 - 06103 NICE CEDEX 2 Applications and Fellowships: In 2011-2012, nine positions will be available. In the call of February 28, 2011, within the ERASMUS MUNDUS program, full economical support is provided. See http://www.irap-phd.org. In the call of September 30, 2011 nine additional fellowships will be available: six with full financial support. See http://www.icra.it and http://www.icranet.org. For further Information please contact: Dr. Carlo Luciano Bianco tel. + 39 06 4991 4 397, secretariat-irapphd[at]icra.it; Dr. Pina Barbaro Université de Nice- Parc Valrose 06108 Nice Cedex, Pina.Barbaro[at]unice.fr The Faculty Giovanni Amelino-Camelia - SAPIENZA Università di Roma Vladimir Belinski - SAPIENZA Università di Roma and ICRANet Carlo Luciano Bianco - SAPIENZA Università di Roma and ICRANet Donato Bini - CNR – Istit. per Applicaz. del Calcolo “M. Picone” Sandip Kumar Chakrabarti - Indian Centre For Space Physics, India Pascal Chardonnet (Erasmus Mundus Coordinator) - Université de Savoie Christian Cherubini - Università “Campus Biomedico” di Roma Pierre Coullet - Université de Nice - Sophie Antipolis Thibault Damour - IHES, Bures-sur-Yvette Jaan Einasto - Tartu Observatory Simonetta Filippi - Univ.“Campus Biomedico” di Roma and ICRANet Sergio Frasca - SAPIENZA Università di Roma Filippo Frontera - Università di Ferrara Yipeng Jing - Shanghai Astronomical Observatory, China Hagen Kleinert - Freie Universitat Berlin Gian Luca Lippi - Université de Nice Sophia-Antipolis Francois Mignard - Observatoire de la Côte d’Azur Hermann Nicolai - Max Planck Inst. for Gravitational Physics, Potsdam Mario Novello - Brazilian Centre For Physics Research, Brazil José Pacheco - Observatoire de la Côte d’Azur Kjell Rosquist - Stockolm University Remo Ruffini (Director) - SAPIENZA Università di Roma and ICRANet Farrokh Vakili - Observatoire de la Côte d’Azur Gregory Vereshchagin - SAPIENZA Università di Roma and ICRANet Xue She Sheng - SAPIENZA Università di Roma and ICRANet ================================================================= 3. News ================================================================= 3.1 Problem Book in Relativity and Gravitation available online --------------------------------------------------------------- Announcement on Hyperspace@AEI: http://hyperspace.aei.mpg.de/2010/12/21/problem-book-in-relativity-and-grav… Additional Information: http://www.nrbook.com/relativity/ The Problem Book in Relativity and Gravitation, by Alan P. Lightman, William H. Press, Richard H. Price, and Saul A. Teukolsky, is now available free online at http://www.nrbook.com/relativity/ The publisher, Princeton University Press, has generously given permission for this. The book remains in print and available for purchase. Saul Teukolsky

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[Hyperspace-list] Hyperspace Bulletin for December 2010
by luciano rezzolla 02 Dec '10

02 Dec '10

################################################################# Table of Contents ################################################################# 1. Conferences 1.1 Britgrav 2011 1.2 PASCOS 2011 1.3 Rencontres de Moriond and GPhyS Colloquium 1.4 School on Gravitational Waves: from Theory to Detection 1.5 Microphysics in Computational Relativistic Astrophysics at PI 2. Jobs 2.1 Research positions in Geometric Analysis and Gravitation at the AEI 2.2 Postdoctoral position in Gravitational-Wave Astronomy and Astrophysics at Syracuse 2.3 PhD Position in Scientific Computing at Jena University 2.4 Postdoc Position in Quantum Gravity at Utrecht University 2.5 Postdoctoral position in Theoretical Gravitational-Wave Physics at Maryland 2.6 PhD Scholarships in Computational/Mathematical Relativity at Otago 2.7 Postdoctoral position in gravitational wave physics at UIB 2.8 Postdoctoral Position in Gravitation Theory at Maryland 2.9 Postdoc Position in Theoretical/Computational Astrophysics at Jacobs University Bremen 2.10 CIFAR Junior Fellowship (Cosmology and Gravity Program) 2.11 Postdoctoral Position in Fundamental Gravitational Theory at Penn State 2.12 Postdoctoral position in Quantum Gravity at the AEI 2.13 Postdoctoral position in theoretical and experimental particle physics at ICN, UNAM, Mexico 2.14 Postdoctoral positions in astrophysics, numerical relativity and nuclear physics at IRFU, LUTH and IPN, Paris, France 2.15 Information Technology Analyst 3 or Consultant at LSU CCT 3. News 3.1 Post-doc and Student Prizes for the best presentations at the GR19 conference 3.2 GWIC Thesis Prize: Call for Nominations 3.3 Einstein Toolkit Release 3.4 Read the Classical and Quantum Gravity Highlights of 2009-2010 ================================================================= 1. Conferences ================================================================= 1.1 Britgrav 2011 ----------------- Announcement on Hyperspace@AEI: http://hyperspace.aei.mpg.de/2010/11/29/britgrav-2011/ Starting Mon, Apr 04, 2011 to Thu, Apr 07, 2011 Location: Glasgow, UK Additional Information: http://nppd.iopconfs.org/ The format of the Britgrav meeting in 2011 will be different to that in previous years. The Gravitational Physics Group is a member of the Nuclear and Particle Physics Division (NPPD) of the IOP, and the 2011 Britgrav meeting will be included in the 2011 NPPD conference (4-7 April 2011, University of Glasgow) as parallel sessions. PhD students and young postdocs (experimentalists and theorists alike) are encouraged to submit an abstract. In addition to the parallel sessions, the 2011 NPPD conference will include invited plenary talks on gravitational physics. See http://nppd.iopconfs.org/ for further details. For abstract submission information see http://nppd.iopconfs.org/ Please note that the abstract submission deadline is *21 January 2011*. David Burton Hon. Sec. IOP Gravitational Physics Group +++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++ 1.2 PASCOS 2011 --------------- Announcement on Hyperspace@AEI: http://hyperspace.aei.mpg.de/2010/11/19/pascos-2011/ Starting Sun, Jul 03, 2011 to Fri, Jul 08, 2011 Location: Cambridge, UK Additional Information: http://www.damtp.cam.ac.uk/research/gr/workshops/PASCOS/2011/ The Centre for Theoretical Cosmology at the University of Cambridge, UK, is proud to be hosting PASCOS 2011, the 17th International Symposium on Particles, Strings and Cosmology. The conference will be held in the award-winning Centre for Mathematical Sciences from 3rd to 8th July 2011. The aim of the conference is to explore and develop synergies between particle physics, string theory and cosmology. This is a particularly timely meeting given ongoing flagship experiments like the Large Hadron Collider at CERN and the Planck satellite. With an international line-up of 26 speakers, all of them world leaders in these fields, PASCOS 2011 will be a major event in the conference schedule for 2011. For further details and latest news, see: http://www.damtp.cam.ac.uk/research/gr/workshops/PASCOS/2011/. It is hoped to have online registration running shortly. +++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++ 1.3 Rencontres de Moriond and GPhyS Colloquium ---------------------------------------------- Announcement on Hyperspace@AEI: http://hyperspace.aei.mpg.de/2010/11/17/rencontres-de-moriond-and-gphys-col… Starting Sun, Mar 20, 2011 to Sun, Mar 27, 2011 Location: La Thuile (Valle d'Aosta), Italy Additional Information: http://gphys.obspm.fr/LaThuile2011/Home.html The next Rencontres de Moriond meeting devoted to Gravitational Waves and Experimental Gravity will be organized in La Thuile (Valle d'Aosta, Italy), March 20-27, 2011. The topics covered will include: Gravitational Waves o Astrophysical sources of GW o Cosmological sources of GW o GW data analysis o Status of detectors o Advanced detectors o Space borne detectors Experimental Gravity o Tests of the equivalence principle (classical and cold atoms) o Atrometry, solar system ephemerides and observational gravity tests o Clocks, lasers and fundamental constants o CPT and Lorentz symmetry o Short range gravity and Casimir effect; classical, atom and neutron tests o Long range gravity, dark matter, dark energy Registration is now open. And more details can be found on the web site of the conference: http://gphys.obspm.fr/LaThuile2011/Home.html Best regards, the organizing committee +++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++ 1.4 School on Gravitational Waves: from Theory to Detection ------------------------------------------------------------ Announcement on Hyperspace@AEI: http://hyperspace.aei.mpg.de/2010/11/13/school-on-gravitational-waves-from-… Starting Mon, May 23, 2011 to Sat, May 28, 2011 Location: CargËse, Corsica, France Additional Information: http://www.apc.univ-paris7.fr/APC/Conferences/Site_Cargese/Home.html As its name suggests, the school program consists of essentially two parts: one devoted to the theoretical grounds of gravitational waves, the astrophysical sources and waveform models, the other more focused on detection principles and analysis methods. +++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++ 1.5 Microphysics in Computational Relativistic Astrophysics at PI ------------------------------------------------------------ Announcement on Hyperspace@AEI: http://hyperspace.aei.mpg.de/2010/12/02/microphysics-in-computational-relat… Starting Mon, Jun 20, 2011 to Sat, Jun 25, 2011 Location: Waterloo ON, Canada This is the first circular, please note further info (webpage, deadlines, SOC, etc) will be sent in the near future. The workshop will be held at the Perimeter Institute for Theoretical Physics, Waterloo ON, Canada on June 20 - 25 2011, and will bring together leading and younger researchers in the field of numerical modeling and microscopic physics of matter and radiation at high densities where effects of general relativity play a central role. The topics covered will include improved microscopic physics inputs (neutrino-matter interactions, equations of state, thermonuclear reaction rates) and computational methods (GRMHD, radiation transport, reaction networks) with an emphasis on approaches that allow for efficient implementation of the improvements in multi-D simulations of relativistic astrophysical systems. ================================================================= 2. Jobs ================================================================= 2.1 Research positions in Geometric Analysis and Gravitation at the AEI ----------------------------------------------------------------------- Announcement on Hyperspace@AEI: http://hyperspace.aei.mpg.de/2010/11/30/research-on-geometric-analysis-and-… Institution: Potsdam, Germany Deadline: Sun, Dec 12, 2010 Additional Information: http://www.aei.mpg.de The Max Planck Institute for Gravitational Physics (Albert Einstein Institute) will fill research positions in the areas Mathematical Relativity Geometric Analysis Research programs concern the mathematical foundations of general relativity and related physical theories, they are based in analysis, geometry and numerical analysis. In particular, nonlinear partial differential equations are a common theme of our research. The Einstein field equations model both the behavior of global cosmological models and of isolated gravitating systems such as stars, black holes and galaxies. Our research addresses the qualitative and quantitative properties of solutions with respect to their local and global behavior, singularity formation and numerical simulation and investigates the close correspondence between geometrical structures and physical concepts. Other field equations arise from string theory and the consideration of matter in modern mathematical models in elasticity, fluids, electromagnetism and gauge theories. Several mathematical projects are concerned with the geometrical structure of space and time. They involve geometrical variational principles characterizing specific models in geometry and physics as well as geometric evolution equations like the mean curvature flow of surfaces and the Ricci-flow of Riemannian metrics. There are close interactions with the research sections "Astrophysical Relativity" and "Quantum Gravity and Unified Theories" in the Albert Einstein Institute, as well as with the universities in Berlin and Potsdam. Postdoctoral appointments typically are for two years, starting September 2011 or earlier. A limited number of PhD-scholarships is available, compare also the website of our "International-Max-Planck-Research-School", http://www.aei.mpg.de/imprs/index.html . To apply please submit a curriculum vitae, list of publications and statement of research interests, and arrange for three letters of recommendation to be sent to anne.lampe[AT]aei.mpg.de +++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++ 2.2 Postdoctoral position in Gravitational-Wave Astronomy and Astrophysics at Syracuse -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Announcement on Hyperspace@AEI: http://hyperspace.aei.mpg.de/2010/11/30/postdoctoral-position-in-gravitatio… Institution: Syracuse, NY, USA Deadline: Wed, Dec 15, 2010 Additional Information: http://www.gravity.phy.syr.edu/ The Syracuse University Gravitational-Wave Group invites application for a postdoctoral research position in gravitational-wave astronomy and astrophysics, starting September 1, 2011 or possibly earlier. The initial appointment will be for one year, renewable up to three years contingent on continued funding and satisfactory performance. The Syracuse University Gravitational-Wave Group consists of faculty members Stefan Ballmer, Duncan Brown and Peter Saulson, senior scientist Peter Couvares, 1 postdoc and 7 graduate students. The group has a broad range of research interests in gravitational-wave astronomy including searches for compact binaries, unmodeled bursts and stochastic sources, as well as detector characterization and next-generation detector development. The Syracuse group has excellent computing and laboratory facilities and operates a 320 CPU core Intel Xeon cluster for gravitational wave data analysis and source modeling. The group has recently received NSF funding to upgrade this to a 2000-core computing cluster. The successful candidate's research will be focused on development of search and parameter estimation techniques for gravitational waves using the Advanced Laser Interferometer Gravitational-wave Observatory (aLIGO), the interface between numerical relativity and gravitational-wave astronomy and the physics of gravitational-wave sources. For full consideration qualified candidates must complete an online management application at www.sujobopps.com (job #027055) and attach their curriculum vitae, list of publications, a statement of research interests, and arrange for three letters of reference to be sent to Prof. Duncan Brown at dabrown[at]physics.syr.edu or via regular mail to: Prof. Duncan Brown, Department of Physics, Syracuse University, Syracuse, NY 13244, USA Application materials should be submitted by December 15, 2010 for full consideration, but the screening process will continue until the position is filled. Syracuse University is an affirmative action/equal opportunity employer. Members of minority groups and women are especially encouraged to apply. +++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++ 2.3 PhD Position in Scientific Computing at Jena University ----------------------------------------------------------- Announcement on Hyperspace@AEI: http://hyperspace.aei.mpg.de/2010/11/30/phd-position-in-scientific-computin… Institution: Jena, Germany Deadline: Fri, Dec 31, 2010 Additional Information: http://wwwsfb.tpi.uni-jena.de/Jobs/ PhD research position on Numerical Methods within the Collaborative Research Center SFB/Transregio 7 "Gravitational Wave Astronomy" is available from January 2011 at Jena University. The PhD project will focus on the development and implementation of numerical methods for second order wave equations, including Finite Element and discontinuous Galerkin methods. A background in one or more of the following is considered advantageous: numerical methods for PDEs, differential geometry, exterior calculus, general relativity, working experience in high-level programming languages, parallel computing. +++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++ 2.4 Postdoc Position in Quantum Gravity at Utrecht University ------------------------------------------------------------- Announcement on Hyperspace@AEI: http://hyperspace.aei.mpg.de/2010/11/26/postdoc-position-in-quantum-gravity… Institution: Utrecht, The Netherlands Deadline: Fri, Dec 17, 2010 Additional Information: http://www.phys.uu.nl/~loll/Web/jobs/jobs.html There will be an opening for a post-doctoral position in quantum gravity in the group headed by Renate Loll at the Institute for Theoretical Physics of Utrecht University, starting in autumn of 2011 or earlier. Applicants should have a background in quantum gravity or related areas, and an active interest in contributing to the group's research in nonperturbative quantum gravity, in particular, the approach of Causal Dynamical Triangulations and possible applications to cosmology. See the attached URL for more information and how to apply. +++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++ 2.5 Postdoctoral position in Theoretical Gravitational-Wave Physics at Maryland -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Announcement on Hyperspace@AEI: http://hyperspace.aei.mpg.de/2010/11/22/postdoctoral-position-in-theoretica… Institution: College Park, MD, USA Deadline: Fri, Dec 31, 2010 The Gravitational Wave Theory Group at the University of Maryland announces the opening of a postdoctoral position in gravitational waves, starting in the Fall of 2011. The position is in the areas of LIGO/Virgo data analysis, with emphasis on the search for gravitational waves from compact binary coalescences, gravitational-wave source modeling, the interface between analytical and numerical relativity,and post-Newtonian theory. The Gravitational Wave Theory Group is part of the Gravitation Theory Group at Maryland which consists of Professors Dieter Brill, Alessandra Buonanno, Bei-Lok Hu, Ted Jacobson, Charlie Misner (Emeritus), Manuel Tiglio, currently postdocs Enrico Barausse, Frank Herrmann, Alexandre Le Tiec, Yi Pan, Craig Robinson, and Sudipta Sarkar, and four graduate students. The Gravitational Wave Theory Group is also part of the Maryland Center for Fundamental Physics (http://mcfp.physics.umd.edu/) and the Joint Space-Science Institute (http://jsi.astro.umd.edu/) The Gravitational Wave Theory Group has also interactions with the Maryland Gravitation Experimental Group, Professors Ho-Jung Paik and Peter Shawhan, with the Astronomy Department, notably, Professors Cole Miller and Chris Reynolds, and with the LISA and numerical relativity group at NASA's Goddard Space Flight Center. All applicants will also automatically be considered for a Maryland Center for Fundamental Physics (MCFP) postdoctoral fellowship. Applicants should submit a curriculum vitae, list of publications, and descriptions of past research and future research interests, and arrange for at least three letters of recommendation to be sent to gwt-postdocs[at]physics.umd.edu. For any inquiry on the postdoctoral positions, please, contact Professor Alessandra Buonanno (buonanno[at]umd.edu) It is requested that all application materials be sent as pdf files or as plain text. Please merge all application materials (other than letters of recommendation) into one pdf file if at all possible. The deadline for receipt of all application materials is December 31, 2010. Maryland is an Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action Employer. +++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++ 2.6 PhD Scholarships in Computational/Mathematical Relativity at Otago ---------------------------------------------------------------------- Announcement on Hyperspace@AEI: http://hyperspace.aei.mpg.de/2010/11/22/phd-scholarships-in-computationalma… Institution: Dunedin, New Zealand Deadline: Sat, Dec 31, 2011 Applications are invited for 3-year PhD scholarships in Applied Mathematics, in particular in mathematical or computational relativity, at the University of Otago. A University of Otago Prestigious Scholarship provides an annual emolument of $25,000, plus tuition fee waiver for 3 years. A normal University of Otago Postgraduate Scholarship provides an annual emolument of $20,000, plus tuition fee waiver for 3 years: exceptional applicants who are awarded a Prestigious Scholarship may be eligible for additional support offered by the Department of Mathematics and Statistics. Applicants should have a First Class honours degree, or Masters degree, or equivalent, specialising in an area of Applied Mathematics.The scholarships are available to both International and Domestic students. There is no deadline for applications. Interested? Then, you should apply for a University of Otago Postgraduate Scholarship by downloading the appropriate application form the Scholarships Office website at: http://www.otago.ac.nz/study/scholarships Successful applicants will be considered for a departmental supplement. Enquiries to: Professor J. Frauendiener (Phone: +64 3 479 7770, Email: joergf[at]maths.otago.ac.nz ) +++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++ 2.7 Postdoctoral position in gravitational wave physics at UIB -------------------------------------------------------------- Announcement on Hyperspace@AEI: http://hyperspace.aei.mpg.de/2010/11/19/postdoctoral-position-in-gravitatio… Institution: Palma, Spain Deadline: Wed, Dec 15, 2010 Additional Information: http://www.uib.es/depart/dfs/GRG The gravity group at the Balearic Islands University (UIB) [http://www.uib.es/depart/dfs/GRG] is seeking applications for a 2-year postdoctoral position in the areas of gravitational wave physics and astrophysics, including data analysis for current and future gravitational wave detectors, modeling of gravitational-wave sources, numerical relativity, and related astrophysical topics. Research of the UIB group focuses on studies of gravitational waves from the point of view of data analysis and numerical simulations, cosmology and dark matter. UIB is a member institution of the LIGO Scientific Collaboration, the GEO600 project, and our group is part of the IAC3 computational institute. The group consists of faculty members Carles Bona, Jaume Carot, Sascha Husa, Lluis Mas, Joan Masso, Alicia Sintes and Joan Stela, and post-doctoral research fellow Denis Pollney, as well as several graduate students. Two further postdoctoral researchers are expected to arrive in early 2011. The position is available in 2011, the exact starting date being negotiable. Applicants should send a cover letter, curriculum vitae, list of publications, brief description of research interests and achievements, as well as arrange for three letters of recommendation to be sent to gravity.uib.contact[at]gmail.com. Please contact Alicia Sintes (alicia.sintes[at]uib.es) and Sascha Husa (sascha.husa[at]uib.es) or any other group member if you have any questions. Review of applications will begin on December 15, and applications will be considered until the position is filled. The position is funded by grant FPA2010-16495 of the Spanish ministry for science and innovation, "Data analysis and source modeling for gravitational wave detectors" to Alicia Sintes. +++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++ 2.8 Postdoctoral Position in Gravitation Theory at Maryland ----------------------------------------------------------- Announcement on Hyperspace@AEI: http://hyperspace.aei.mpg.de/2010/11/19/postdoctoral-position-in-gravitatio… Institution: College Park, MD, USA Deadline: Wed, Dec 15, 2010 Additional Information: http://academicjobsonline.org/ajo/jobs/608 The Maryland Gravitation Theory Group announces an opening for a postdoctoral position in gravitation theory, starting in the Fall of 2011. The position is for one year, with renewal for a second year expected depending on the continuation of funding and satisfactory progress. The research areas for this position include, but are not limited to, phenomenology of general relativity and modified gravity theories, black hole thermodynamics, quantum field theory in curved spacetime, and quantum gravity. The Maryland Gravitation Theory Group currently consists of Professors Dieter Brill, Alessandra Buonanno, Bei-Lok Hu, Ted Jacobson, and Manuel Tiglio, and is part of the Maryland Center for Fundamental Physics (MCFP), which also includes particle and nuclear theory groups. The group web page is http://www.physics.umd.edu/rgroups/grt/ ; the Center web page is http://mcfp.physics.umd.edu/. Some members of the group are also fellows of the Joint Space Science Institute: http://jsi.astro.umd.edu/. All applicants will also automatically be considered for an MCFP postdoctoral fellowship. Applications should be submitted via Academic Jobs Online, at https://academicjobsonline.org/ajo/jobs/608 and should incude a CV, publication list, and statement of research experience and interests, and at least three letters of reference. Maryland is an Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action Employer. Deadline: Wednesday, December 15, 2010 Contact: Y. Kubota Email: ykubota[at]umd.edu More information: http://academicjobsonline.org/ajo/jobs/608 +++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++ 2.9 Postdoc Position in Theoretical/Computational Astrophysics at Jacobs University Bremen ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------ Announcement on Hyperspace@AEI: http://hyperspace.aei.mpg.de/2010/11/16/postdoc-position-in-theoreticalcomp… Institution: Bremen, Germany Deadline: Wed, Dec 15, 2010 Additional Information: http://www.faculty.iu-bremen.de/srosswog/Postdoc_advert_flyer_10_2010.pdf Position available immediately, without any restriction on citizenship. The successful candidate will have a PhD in Physics or Astrophysics, in exceptional cases also in Mathematics or Computer Science. The main topic of the project will be related to the tidal disruption of stars by massive black holes, but other topics related to compact objects may also be studied. The current research interests of the group comprise space-plasma physics, galaxy clusters, compact objects, binary systems, supernova explosions, Gamma-ray bursts, nucleosynthesis, sources of gravitational waves and computational methods. Jacobs University Bremen is an English-speaking private research University in the North of Germany. Jacobs University has excellent local computing facilities and access to national supercomputing centres.The selection process will begin 15 December 2010, but applications will be considered for as long as the position is available. Potential applicants are encouraged to make informal enquiries to Prof. Dr. Stephan Rosswog Jacobs University Bremen Campus Ring 1 28759 Bremen, Germany Email: s.rosswog[AT]jacobs-university.de http://www.faculty.iu-bremen.de/srosswog Candidates should send HARDCOPIES (no emails, please) of their application material (curriculum vitae, publication list, summary of current research interests; max. 2 pages) to the above address. They should also arrange for two letters of reference to arrive by the same date. +++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++ 2.10 CIFAR Junior Fellowship (Cosmology and Gravity Program) ------------------------------------------------------------ Announcement on Hyperspace@AEI: http://hyperspace.aei.mpg.de/2010/11/15/cifar-junior-fellowship-cosmology-a… Institution: Eligible universities in Canada Additional Information: http://www2.cifar.ca/media/files/C%26G Junior Fellow Ad - June 2010.pdf The Junior Fellow Academy of the Canadian Institute for Advanced Research is an elite fellowship program designed to build research and leadership capacity in gifted young scholars at a critical early stage of career development. The Academy provides unique opportunities for personal and professional growth through close collaboration with and mentorship from some of the best researchers in Canada and around the world. CIFAR's Cosmology and Gravity Program is seeking outstanding postdoctoral researchers to fill a Junior Fellowship position beginning in or after July 2011. The Junior Fellowship will be held in conjunction with a university postdoctoral appointment under the supervision of one or more program Fellows or Scholars. The position is tenable at any of the Canadian institutions where members of the Cosmology and Gravity Program are based. +++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++ 2.11 Postdoctoral Position in Fundamental Gravitational Theory at Penn State ---------------------------------------------------------------------------- Announcement on Hyperspace@AEI: http://hyperspace.aei.mpg.de/2010/11/09/post-doctoral-position-in-fundament… Institution: University Park, PA, USA Deadline: Sun, Dec 12, 2010 Additional Information: http://www.gravity.psu.edu/opportunities/index.shtml The Institute for Gravitation and the Cosmos expects an opening for a post-doctoral position starting fall 2011 in the areas of general relativity and quantum gravity. The initial appointment will be for one year and is expected to be renewed for another year subject to satisfactory progress and availability of funds. In exceptional cases it has been renewed also for a third year. The gravitational theory group consists of Abhay Ashtekar, Martin Bojowald, Murat Gunaydin and Radu Roiban. In addition, Professors Roger Penrose, Jerzy Lewandowski, Alejandro Corichi and Stephon Alexander hold visiting professorships at the Institute. Successful candidates will be encouraged to interact also with mathematicians in the Center for Fundamental Theory and with members of the Center for Gravitational Wave Physics. During the current academic year, the Institute has approximately 20 post-docs (including Drs. Ivan Agullo, David Brizuela, Marco Chiodaroli, Jacobo Diaz-Polo, Alok Laddha, Elena Magliaro, William Nelson, Claudio Perini, Dmytro Volin in Fundamental Theory). For further information on the Institute, see http://www.gravity.psu.edu/ Current areas of research include Loop quantum gravity, mathematical, conceptual as well as phenomenological issues in cosmology, black hole dynamics, interface of analytical and numerical quantum gravity, supergravity and gravitational aspects of string theory and non-commutative geometry. In particular, ideas from both loop quantum gravity and string theory are being applied to fundamental problems of cosmology, analysis of singularity resolution and the issue of information loss. More generally, the Institute provides a rare forum for stimulating exchanges of ideas between different approaches to quantum gravity. Interested candidates should send a CV, a publication list and a statement of research interests/plans and arrange to have three recommendation letters sent directly to: Randi Neshteruk IGC Post-doc Applications 104 Davey Lab #258 Penn State University Park, PA 16802-6300, USA E-mail applications will be preferred provided the material is included as PDF file attachments. They should be sent to: igc-applications[AT]gravity.psu.edu The deadline for receipt of all application material is December 12th, 2010. Penn State is an affirmative action/equal opportunity employer. +++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++ 2.12 Postdoctoral position in Quantum Gravity at the AEI -------------------------------------------------------- Announcement on Hyperspace@AEI: http://hyperspace.aei.mpg.de/2010/11/09/postdoctoral-position-in-quantum-gr… Institution: Potsdam, Germany Additional Information: http://www.aei.mpg.de/english/metanavi/jobs/index.html We invite applications of outstanding candidates for a postdoctoral position, starting in or around the fall 2011, at the Max Planck Institute (Albert Einstein Institute) for Gravitational Physics, Potsdam, Germany, in Quantum Gravity. This is meant to include loop quantum gravity and spin foam models, group field theories, matrix models, discrete quantum gravity, non-commutative geometry, and related areas, including gravitational thermodynamics, emergent gravity models and quantum gravity phenomenology. The position will be offered either in the Max-Planck Research Group headed by Dr. Bianca Dittrich (http://www.aei.mpg.de/english/research/teams/canonicalCovariantDynamics/ind…) or in the Independent Research Group headed by Dr. Daniele Oriti (http://www.aei.mpg.de/english/research/teams/microscopicQuantumStructure/in…) and funded by a Sofja Kowalevskaja Award of the Humboldt Foundation. The two groups are formed by approximately twenty members in total, between postdocs, PhD students and visiting scientists. The two groups are also involved in a variety of international research collaborations. Moreover, close collaboration and research exchanges are expected with the ''Quantum gravity and unified theories'' division of the Institute, directed by Prof. Nicolai, and counting on a considerable number postdocs and PhD students (see http://www.aei-potsdam.mpg.de/english/research/teams/quantumGravity/index.h…) Overall, we can offer a vibrant, stimulating and top quality research environment for young researchers interested in Quantum Gravity. The postdoctoral appointments will be for two years, with the possibility of extension (depending on performance and availability of funds) in exceptional circumstances. We offer competitive salary, depending on experience, and adequate travel funds. Applicants are expected to hold, or to anticipate receiving very soon, a PhD in theoretical or mathematical physics, and to have already shown outstanding research abilities and potential. Successful applicants will likely have a strong research background and research interests in at least one of the following areas: loop quantum gravity, spin foam models, group field theory, simplicial gravity, matrix models, non-commutative geometry, fundamental cosmology and cosmological implications of quantum gravity models, emergent gravity in condensed matter systems, thermodynamical aspects of gravity, quantum gravity phenomenology. Interest in combining methods and ideas from different approaches to quantum gravity, and to apply techniques from quantum (statistical) field theory and/or condensed matter theory in quantum gravity is desirable. The review of applications will start December 1st 2010, but applications will be considered until the position is filled. To apply, please visit the webpage: https://lotus1.aei.mpg.de/job-form.nsf/applyQG.xsp and follow the application procedure online. Please also arrange for three letters of recommendation to be written on your behalf. Referees will be asked to upload the letters following your application. Alternatively, they can be e-mailed to qgpostdocs[at]aei.mpg.de or mailed to Max-Planck-Institut fuer Gravitationsphysik Albert-Einstein-Institut Frau Christine Gottschalkson Am Muehlenberg 1 D-14476 Golm Germany The Albert Einstein Institute is an equal opportunity employer, and applications from women and minority scholars are strongly encouraged. For any question or problem concerning the application process, please contact daniele.oriti[at]aei.mpg.de +++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++ 2.13 Postdoctoral position in theoretical and experimental particle physics at ICN, UNAM, Mexico ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------ Announcement on Hyperspace@AEI: http://hyperspace.aei.mpg.de/2010/11/06/postdoctoral-position-icn-unam-mexi… Institution: Mexico City, Mexico Deadline: Tue, Feb 15, 2011 The High Energy Physics Department of the Institute of Nuclear Science (ICN) at the National University in Mexico City (UNAM) is seeking candidates for a 1+1 year postdoctoral position in the fields of theoretical and experimental particle physics, starting on September 2011. The research topics developed at the Department include: Astroparticle Physics, Effective Field Theories, Electroweak Baryogenesis, Gauge/Gravity Duality, Lagrangian and Hamiltonian Methods of Quantization, Mathematical Physics, Neutrino Physics, Noncommutative Field Theories, Quantum Gravity Phenomenology, Relativistic Heavy-Ion Physics, Thermal Field Theory, Ultra-High Energy Cosmic Ray Physics. The Department is also currently engaged in the ALICE experiment at the Large Hadron Collider at CERN and in the Pierre Auger Observatory, as well as in the JEM-EUSO and HAWC collaborations. The permanent members of the Department are: A. Aguilar-Arevalo, A. Ayala, E. Cuautle, J.C. D'Olivo, A. Garcia, A. Guijosa, G. Medina-Tanco, L. Nellen, G. Paic, S. Sahu, M. Socolovsky, L.F. Urrutia and J.D. Vergara. In addition, there are currently four postdocs: M.A. Acero, V. Cuesta, C. De Donato and R. Lehnert . Those interested should send (preferably by e-mail) an application consisting of a cover letter, C.V., description of previous research experience and current research interests, along with three letters of recommendation, to: Prof. Jose David Vergara, Head, High Energy Physics Department Instituto de Ciencias Nucleares Universidad Nacional Autonoma de Mexico Circuito Exterior S/N, Ciudad Universitaria Apdo. Postal 70-143 C.P. 04510 Mexico, D.F. MEXICO Ph.: +52-55-5622 4690 / 91 / 92 Fax: +52-55-5622 4693 Email: vergara[AT]nucleares.unam.mx To receive full consideration, all application materials should be received no later than February 15th, 2011. +++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++ 2.14 Postdoctoral positions in astrophysics, numerical relativity and nuclear physics at IRFU, LUTH and IPN, Paris, France -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Announcement on Hyperspace@AEI: http://hyperspace.aei.mpg.de/2010/11/05/post-doctoral-positions-in-astrophy… Institution: Paris, France Deadline: Tue, Feb 01, 2011 The program SN2NS, sponsored by the French Agence Nationale pour la Recherche (ANR), is advertising three postdoctoral positions for the period 2011-2014. The expected starting date is September 1, 2011, though earlier starting dates can be accommodated. Required application materials include a CV, bibliography, a statement of research interests and three letters of reference. All applications arriving before February 1, 2011 will be fully considered. Later applications will be considered until the positions are filled. SN2NS is a 4-year program of the French agency ANR whose goal is the modeling of stellar core-collapse, leading to the birth of neutron stars and black holes. It involves three laboratories: - Institut de Recherche sur les lois Fondamentales de l'Univers (IRFU) in the CEA (Saclay) - Laboratoire Univers et Theories (LUTh) in the Observatoire de Paris (Meudon) - Institut de Physique Nucleaire (IPN) in the UniversitÈ Paris 11 (Orsay) * Postdoctoral position at IRFU, CEA-Saclay (36 months) Location: Service d'astrophysique, Orme des merisiers, CEA Saclay, 91190 Gif-sur-Yvette, France. Contact person: Thierry Foglizzo (foglizzo[AT]cea.fr) The hydrodynamical aspects of the SN2NS project will be studied at IRFU using numerical and analytical tools. The successful candidate will conduct multidimensional simulations in order to characterize the consequences of instabilities during core-collapse. Their sensitivity to the simplified prescriptions concerning gravity, neutrino transport and the microphysics will be studied in close collaboration with LUTh and IPN. A strong background in numerical hydrodynamics is required. Some experience in the physics of core-collapse supernovae would be welcome. Available tools include simplified versions of the code CoCoNut developped at LUTh, and the AMR code RAMSES developped at Saclay. The succesful candidate will benefit from the stimulating environment of the COAST group at IRFU/SAp, and the help of visualisation engineers associated with the project. * Postdoctoral position at LUTH, Observatoire de Paris-Meudon (36 months) Location: Laboratoire Univers et Theories, Observatoire de Meudon, 5 place Jules Janssen, 92190 Meudon, France. Contact person: Jerome Novak (jerome.novak[AT]obspm.fr) The main interest of LUTH within this project is to study the formation of a black hole in realistic stellar core-collapse, and its properties regarding its spin and kick velocity. The successful candidate should be able to rapidly join the collaborative numerical project CoCoNuT (see http://www.mpa-garching.mpg.de/hydro/COCONUT) developed together with the Max-Planck-Institut f¸r Astrophysik (Garching, Germany) and the University of Valencia (Spain) and to develop his/her own numerical tools to study the formation of a black hole and its interaction with its surroundings. She/he will also have to work in collaboration with the two other groups: IRFU (SASI and hydrodynamics) and IPN (realistic equation of state and neutrino interactions). The applicant of this post-doctoral position at LUTH should therefore have some interest in the field of numerical relativity in the context of gravitational collapse and/or black hole simulation. However, any candidate with some experienc e in the numerical modeling of gravitational collapse (hydrodynamics, neutrino transport, ...) is also encouraged to apply. * Postdoctoral position at IPN, Universite Paris 11, Orsay (24 months) Location: Institut de Physique Nucleaire, 15 rue Georges Clemenceau, 91400 Orsay, France. Contact person: Jerome Margueron (jmargue[AT]ipno.in2p3.fr) Realistic microphysics input for numerical simulations will be developed at IPN in collaboration with LUTH Meudon and LPC Caen. The aim is to obtain an equation of state covering the entire domain of density, asymmetry and temperature reached by massive core collapse events together with consistent electro-weak interaction rates (electron capture, neutrino interactions). This means that the multi-component sub-saturation regime, where statistical models could be employed, as well as the dense regime with a possible transition to exotic matter (hyperons, quarks) should be described. The implementation into core-collapse modelization will be done in collaboration with the partners at LUTH and at IRFU. We are therefore looking for applicants with profound knowledge in nuclear/hadronic physics. Some experience in dense matter (neutron stars or supernovae) would be appreciated. +++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++ 2.15 Information Technology Analyst 3 or Consultant at LSU CCT -------------------------------------------------------------- Announcement on Hyperspace@AEI: http://hyperspace.aei.mpg.de/2010/11/03/information-technology-analyst-3-or… Institution: Baton Rouge, LA, USA Deadline: position is open until filled Additional Information: https://lsusystemcareers.lsu.edu/applicants/jsp/shared/frameset/Frameset.js… The Information Technology Analyst 3 or Consultant works with researchers in the CCT focus areas in the design of software systems to support scientific research; works with Cyberinfrastructure Development (CyD) to promote adoption of CCT frameworks and tools; supports the research goals of the CCT Coast to Cosmos and Core Computational Sciences focus areas; develops and supports software, particularly Cactus and related tools, and educating others about its use; ensures that this software makes efficient use of computational resources, e.g. via providing optimization, deploying tools, or consulting; conducts research in relativistic astrophysics and other research groups, complementing the strategic goals and plans of the CCT Coast to Cosmos focus area; ensures that this research is making efficient use of novel and emerging technologies, including technologies from the Core Computational Sciences focus area; prepares proposals and reports; represents the CCT at national an d international meetings. This is not the full ad for the position. For the full ad and/or to apply you should go to https://lsusystemcareers.lsu.edu/applicants/Central?quickFind=52615 The LSU System is an equal opportunity/equal access employer. ================================================================= 3. News ================================================================= 3.1 Post-doc and Student Prizes for the best presentations at the GR19 conference --------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Announcement on Hyperspace@AEI: http://hyperspace.aei.mpg.de/2010/11/30/post-doc-and-student-prizes-for-the… Additional Information: http://www.isgrg.org/prizes.php The International Society on General Relativity and Gravitation awards prizes for the best post-doc and student presentations at the Society's tri-annual conferences. The winners are chosen by the Executive committee of the Society from recommendations made by the Session Chairs and the Chair of the Scientific organization committee of the conference. For further details, see http://www.isgrg.org/prizes.php The post-doc prizes are named after Prof. S. Chandrasekhar and are sponsored by World Scientific. They were instituted in 2010, the centennial year of Professor Chandrasekhar's birth. There is one prize in each of the four major themes of the conference. The 2010 prize winners are: Drs. Wei Chet Lim (Mathematical and Numerical Relativity); Mark Hannam (Relativistic Astrophysics and Cosmology); Thomas Corbitt (Experimental Gravitation) and Parampreet Singh (Quantum Gravity). The prize carries a certificate, a 3 year membership of the Society and a monetary award of $150. The student prizes are made possible through generosity of Professor James B. Hartle. The 2010 Hartle Prize winners are: Amitai Bin-Nun, Bethan Cropp, Samuel Gralla, Charalampos Markakis, Vivien Raymond, Ian Morrison, David Sloan, Jan Steinhoff and Francesca Vidotto. The prize carries a certificate, a 3 year membership of the Society and a monetary award of $75. Congratulations to all the winners! +++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++ 3.2 GWIC Thesis Prize: Call for Nominations ------------------------------------------- Announcement on Hyperspace@AEI: http://hyperspace.aei.mpg.de/2010/11/30/gwic-thesis-prize-call-for-nominati… Additional Information: http://gwic.ligo.org/thesisprize/ The Gravitational Wave International Committee (GWIC) was formed to promote international collaboration and cooperation in the construction, operation and use of gravitational wave detection facilities world-wide. To this end, GWIC has established an annual prize for the outstanding Ph.D. thesis based on research in gravitational waves. Nominations for the 2010 GWIC Thesis Prize are now open. Members of the broader gravitational wave community are invited to nominate students who have performed notable research on any aspect of gravitational waves science. Theses will be judged on 1) originality and creativity of the research, 2) importance to the field of gravitational waves and gravitational wave detection, broadly interpreted, and 3) clarity of presentation in the thesis. Eligibility: The award is made on a calendar year basis. Theses should have been accepted by their institutions between January 1, 2010 and December 31, 2010 to qualify for consideration. It is expected that many of the nominations will come from the member projects of GWIC, but this is not a requirement. A committee representing the GWIC member projects will evaluate the nominations and select the winner. Nominated theses may be in any language. The selection committee will make the final determinations about eligibility. Nominations: Nominations should be submitted to the selection committee chair (Viviana Fafone, viviana.fafone[at]roma2.infn.it) by January 15, 2011. The nomination package consists of (i) the thesis, (ii) a letter of nomination, preferably from the thesis advisor, and (iii) an optional supporting letter from another scientist familiar with the work. The nomination letter (and supporting letter if applicable) should describe the importance of the research and how it supports GWIC's goals to promote construction and exploitation of gravitational-wave detectors, foster development of new or enhanced gravitational-wave detectors, and to support the development of gravitational-wave detection as an astronomical tool generally. The thesis and letters may be submitted in electronic form (preferred) or in hard-copy (five copies). The GWIC Thesis Prize will be presented at the 9th Edoardo Amaldi Conference on Gravitational Waves (Amaldi9) in Cardiff, UK from 10-15 July 2011. The recipient will receive a certificate of recognition and a prize of $1,000. The nominator is responsible to ensure that travel funds will be made available to send the winner to the Amaldi Conference to receive the prize. +++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++ 3.3 Einstein Toolkit Release ---------------------------- Announcement on Hyperspace@AEI: http://hyperspace.aei.mpg.de/2010/11/24/einstein-toolkit-release-2/ Additional Information: http://einsteintoolkit.org/toolkit/releases/ET_2010_11_announcement.php We are pleased to announce the second release (code name "Chandrasekhar") of the Einstein Toolkit, an open, community developed software infrastructure for relativistic astrophysics. This release is mainly a maintenance release incorporating fixes accumulated since the previous release in June 2010, as well as additional test suites. The Einstein Toolkit is a collection of software components and tools for simulating and analyzing general relativistic astrophysical systems that builds on numerous software efforts in the numerical relativity community including CactusEinstein, the Carpet AMR infrastructure and on the public version of the Whisky hydrodynamics code (now modified and called GRHydro). The Cactus Framework is used as the underlying computational infrastructure providing large-scale parallelization, general computational components, and a model for collaborative, portable code development. The toolkit includes modules to build complete codes for simulating black hole spacetimes as well as systems governed by relativistic hydrodynamics. Current development in the consortium is targeted at providing additional infrastructure for general relativistic magnetohydrodynamics. The Einstein Toolkit uses a distributed software model and its different modules are developed, distributed, and supported either by the core team of Einstein Toolkit Maintainers, or by individual groups. Where modules are provided by external groups, the Einstein Toolkit Maintainers provide quality control for modules for inclusion in the toolkit and help coordinate support. The Einstein Toolkit Maintainers currently involve postdocs and faculty from five different institutions, and host weekly meetings that are open for anyone to join in. Guiding principles for the design and implementation of the toolkit include: open, community-driven software development; well thought out and stable interfaces; separation of physics software from computational science infrastructure; provision of complete working production code; training and education for a new generation of researchers. For more information about using or contributing to the Einstein Toolkit, or to join the Einstein Toolkit Consortium, please visit our web pages http://einsteintoolkit.org. The Einstein Toolkit is primarily supported by NSF 0903973/0903782/0904015 (CIGR), and also by NSF 0701566/0855892 (XiRel), 0721915 (Alpaca), 0905046/0941653 (PetaCactus) and 0710874 (LONI Grid). The "Chandrasekhar" Release Team on behalf of the Einstein Toolkit Consortium (2010-11-23) +++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++ 3.4 Read the Classical and Quantum Gravity Highlights of 2009-2010 ------------------------------------------------------------------ Announcement on Hyperspace@AEI: http://hyperspace.aei.mpg.de/2010/11/15/read-the-classical-and-quantum-grav… Additional Information: http://herald.iop.org/link/4077 Dear Colleagues, I am delighted to announce the publication of Classical and Quantum Gravity's Highlights of 2009-2010. The articles in the list, published between May 2009 and June 2010, were selected by the Editorial Board of Classical and Quantum Gravity (CQG) as a representation of the best recent work in gravitational physics. http://herald.iop.org/link/4077 The list includes research Papers, Fast Track Communications, review articles and special issue contributions. The selected articles have also proven popular with our readers and have been frequently downloaded. Look out for the CQG Highlights Brochure in 2011, which will be available at gravitational physics meetings. The brochure summarises the highlighted papers and will tell you more about the journal's ongoing activities including prize sponsorships and forthcoming special issues. I invite you to submit your work to CQG and look forward to seeing it promoted as a CQG Highlight in the future. Yours sincerely Adam Day Publisher Classical and Quantum Gravity

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[Hyperspace-list] Hyperspace Bulletin for November 2010
by hyperspace＠aei.mpg.de 02 Nov '10

02 Nov '10

################################################################# Table of Contents ################################################################# 1. Conferences 1.1 Gravitational-Wave Physics and Astronomy Workshop 1.2 14th Capra Meeting on Radiation Reaction at Southampton (First announcement) 1.3 Eastern Gravity Meeting (First Announcement) 2. Jobs 2.1 Postdoctoral positions in mathematics at IST Lisbon 2.2 Faculty position in computational mathematics at University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee 2.3 Faculty position in gravitational physics/cosmology at University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee 2.4 Postdoctoral Fellowships and Research Associate Positions at CITA 2.5 Faculty Position in Cosmology/Astroparticle Physics/Gravitational Waves at UMD 2.6 Postdoctoral position in theoretical/computational astrophysics at Johns Hopkins University 2.7 PhD positions in GW data analysis at Nikhef, Amsterdam 2.8 Postdoctoral position(s) in loop quantum gravity at LSU 2.9 Postdoctoral positions in Astrophysical Relativity at the AEI 2.10 Postdoctoral position in theoretical cosmology at Portsmouth 2.11 Postdoctoral Position in Gravitational Wave Astrophysics at Georgia Tech 2.12 Postdoctoral position at the Rochester Institute of Technology 2.13 Postdoctoral Positions in Gravitational Physics at Montana State 2.14 Junior professorship at the APC laboratory, University Paris Denis Diderot 2.15 Faculty positions at IPMU 2.16 Postdoctoral Fellows at IPMU 2.17 Postdoctoral position in theoretical gravity at University of Tartu 3. News 3.1 Numerical Relativity: Solving Einstein's Equations on the Computer (New Book) 3.2 Living Reviews in Relativity: "Quantization of Midisuperspace Models" 3.3 Read the 2010 CERN Winter School in Classical & Quantum Gravity 3.4 Read the Classical & Quantum Gravity GWDAW-14 Special Issue 3.5 2010 Gravitational Physics Group Thesis Prize sponsored by Classical and Quantum Gravity ================================================================= 1. Conferences ================================================================= 1.1 Gravitational-Wave Physics and Astronomy Workshop ----------------------------------------------------- Announcement on Hyperspace@AEI: http://hyperspace.aei.mpg.de/2010/10/29/gravitational-wave-physics-and-astr… Starting Wed, Jan 26, 2011 to Sat, Jan 29, 2011 Location: Milwaukee, WI, USA Additional Information: http://www.gravity.phys.uwm.edu/conferences/gwpaw The Gravitational-wave Physics and Astronomy Workshop (the re-incarnation of GWDAW) will take place in Milwaukee, Wisconsin, USA from 26-29 January 2011. This is the first of three circulars that will be distributed describing GWPAW. Additional information, including registration instructions, can be found at the workshop web site. At this URL, you can also subscribe to a mailing list for future circulars. IMPORTANT DEADLINES Early registration: Monday, 20 December 2010 Abstract submission: Friday, 7 January 2011 Hotel special workshop rate: Tuesday, 9 January 2011 Registration: Sunday, 16 January 2011 PURPOSE To bring together experts in gravitational waves, astronomy and computational astrophysics to address open questions in gravitational-wave astronomy. The workshop will be arranged around the following questions: How do we combine gravitational-wave, electromagnetic, and particle observations of transient astrophysical events? What can we learn about compact objects through multi-messenger observations and simulations? How can we use gravitational-wave observations to address open questions in cosmology? How can gravitational-wave observations address fundamental questions of physics? For example, what constraints can be placed on alternative theories of gravity? The next generation of gravitational-wave detectors will begin observations around the middle of the decade. What gaps, if any, in observational capabilities need to be filled in order to maximize the science related to gravitational-wave observations? DATES The workshop sessions will last three-and-one-half days, beginning in the morning about 09:00 AM on Wednesday, January 26, and ending around lunchtime 12:30 PM on Saturday, January 29. There will be a reception at the hotel on the evening of Tuesday, January 25. There will be a banquet at Discovery World at Pier Wisconsin on Thursday, January 27. TRAVEL The closest airports are (1) at 15km, Milwaukee (MKE) and (2) at 150km, Chicago O'Hare (ORD). WORKSHOP VENUE The workshop will take place at the UWM Center for Continuing Education (UCCE) Conference Facility. This is located on the 7th floor of the Plankinton Building, 161 W. Wisconsin Avenue, Milwaukee, WI 53203-2602 USA. Continental breakfast and lunch will be served at the conference center on Wednesday, Thursday and Friday. Breakfast will also be served at the conference center on Saturday morning. WORKSHOP HOTEL The workshop hotel is the Hyatt Regency Milwaukee, 33 West Kilbourn Avenue, Milwaukee, Wisconsin 53203 USA. The hotel is located approximately two city blocks from the workshop venue. A block of rooms has been reserved at the Hyatt for the nights of Tuesday, 25 January 2011 through Friday, 28 January 2011. This block of rooms will be held in reserve until Tuesday, 11 January 2011. Please note that the hotel is hosting two additional conferences during these dates and room availability after this date cannot be guaranteed. Room rates (block identifier: GWPAW) are: Single Occupancy: US $109.00/night Double Occupancy: US $109.00/night Online reservations are strongly encouraged. You will find a link for making on-line reservations at the negotiated rate on the GWPAW website. Alternatively, you can reserve a room by calling 1-888-421-1442 or +1-414-276-1234 and requesting the "GWPAW" room rate. SCIENTIFIC ORGANIZING COMMITTEE The members of the Scientific Organizing Committee are: Lars Bildsten. University of California, Santa Barbara Marie Anne Bizouard. LAL Orsay and Carleton College Patrick Brady (Chair). University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee Laura Cadonati. University of Massachusetts, Amherst Neil Gehrels. NASA/GSFC and University of Maryland Francis Halzen. University of Wisconsin Scott Hughes. Massachusetts Institute of Technology Zelko Ivezic (*). University of Washington Nobuyuki Kanda. Osaka City University David Kaplan. University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee Shri Kulkarni. Caltech Maura McLaughlin. West Virginia University Brian McNamara. Waterloo University Benoit Mours. LAPP‚ Annecy Ben Owen. Pennsylvania State University Maria Alessandra Papa. Albert Einstein Institute-MPG Fulvio Ricci (*). University of La Sapienza and INFN Susan Scott. Australian National University Deirdre Shoemaker. Georgia Institute of Technology Xavier Siemens. University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee Alberto Vecchio. University of Birmingham Stan Whitcomb. Caltech (*) To be confirmed. LOCAL ORGANIZING COMMITTEE The members of the Local Organizing Committee are: Patrick Brady, Alan Wiseman, Stefanie Pinnow, Sara Gil-Casanova. Contact the local organizing committee by e-mail to gwpaw-loc[AT]gravity.phys.uwm.edu PROGRAM AND ABSTRACT SUBMISSION A breakdown of the sessions will be provided in the next circular. Abstract submission will open at the end of November. REGISTRATION FEE Early Registration: $325 (until Dec 20) Late Registration: $350 (after Dec 20) The registration includes the welcome reception on Tuesday evening; breakfast, lunch and breaks on Wed-Sat; and the workshop dinner at Discovery World on Thursday evening. Additional registration information is available at the GWPAW web site WEATHER AND CLIMATE The average of the Milwaukee daily maximum and minimum temperatures in Celsius for January 26 -29 are: Average Maximum: -1 Average Minimum: -9 +++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++ 1.2 14th Capra Meeting on Radiation Reaction at Southampton (First announcement) -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Announcement on Hyperspace@AEI: http://hyperspace.aei.mpg.de/2010/10/26/14th-capra-meeting-on-radiation-rea… Starting Mon, Jul 04, 2011 to Fri, Jul 08, 2011 Location: Southampton, UK We are pleased to announce that the 14th Capra meeting on radiation reaction in relativity will be held at the University of Southampton, UK, on 4-8th July 2011 (the week preceding the Amaldi meeting in Cardiff). Further details will follow in January. +++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++ 1.3 Eastern Gravity Meeting (First Announcement) ------------------------------------------------ Announcement on Hyperspace@AEI: http://hyperspace.aei.mpg.de/2010/10/24/eastern-gravity-meeting-first-annou… Starting Thu, Jun 02, 2011 to Fri, Jun 03, 2011 Location: Princeton, NJ, USA The 14th Eastern Gravity Meeting will be held June 2-3, 2011 at Princeton University. The format of the meeting will follow previous regional meetings, where all participants may present a talk of approximately 10-15 minutes, depending on the total number of talks. A conference website will be open in a few months, at which time more details, registration information and abstract submission will be available. ================================================================= 2. Jobs ================================================================= 2.1 Postdoctoral positions in mathematics at IST Lisbon ------------------------------------------------------- Announcement on Hyperspace@AEI: http://hyperspace.aei.mpg.de/2010/10/28/postdoctoral-positions-in-mathemati… Institution: Lisbon, Portugal Deadline: Wed, Dec 01, 2010 Additional Information: http://camgsd.math.ist.utl.pt/postdocs.phtml.en The Center for Mathematical Analysis, Geometry, and Dynamical Systems of the Department of Mathematics of Instituto Superior Técnico, Lisbon, Portugal, invites applications for postdoctoral positions for research in mathematics, subject to budgetary approval. Positions are for one year, with the possibility of extension for a second year upon mutual agreement. Selected candidates will be able to take up their position between September 1, 2011, and January 1, 2012. Applicants should have a Ph.D. in mathematics, or in a related area relevant to the scientific interests of the faculty of the Center, preferably obtained after December 31, 2008. They must show very strong research promise in one of the areas in which the faculty of the Center is currently active. There are no teaching duties associated with these positions. Information on how to apply please see in: http://camgsd.math.ist.utl.pt/postdocs.phtml.en +++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++ 2.2 Faculty position in computational mathematics at University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Announcement on Hyperspace@AEI: http://hyperspace.aei.mpg.de/2010/10/27/faculty-position-in-computational-m… Institution: Milwaukee, WI, USA Deadline: Mon, Nov 15, 2010 Additional Information: http://www.gravity.phys.uwm.edu/positions.html The Department of Mathematical Sciences, University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee (UWM), invites applications to fill one faculty position at the Assistant or Associate Professor level in Mathematical Sciences. Starting date is August 2011. The department is seeking an outstanding researcher in computational mathematics with interdisciplinary focus. Candidates must have, or expect to complete by August 2011, a PhD or equivalent in mathematics or a closely related field, with expertise in computational mathematics. Preferred qualifications are: evidence of a strong research record (publications, funding, post-doc experience); a commitment to teaching excellence; primary expertise in numerical partial differential equations (PDE), high performance scientific computing (HPC), multiscale modeling and analysis (MMA), computational stochastics or a related field, and interdisciplinary experience or potential. The candidate is expected to develop significant cooperation with researchers in other fields of application, especially outside the Department of Mathematical Sciences, in fields such as biology, bio-engineering, chemistry, freshwater science, medicine, and public health. Responsibilities include development of a vigorous, collaborative research program, teaching two courses per semester, and taking active roles in the undergraduate, Master‚ and Doctoral programs. A competitive compensation, benefits, and research start-up package is provided. The Mathematical Sciences Department has a faculty of 37, including pure mathematicians, applied & computational mathematicians, statisticians, and atmospheric scientists. We are engaged in collaborations with many other departments in the natural sciences and engineering, as well as the Great Lakes WATER Institute and the Medical College of Wisconsin. More information can be found by visiting our web page at http://www.math.uwm.edu/ Applications must be completed online at http://jobs.uwm.edu/postings/4906, where applicants will upload a CV, cover letter, and teaching and research statements. Please include links to relevant web pages and publications in your cover letter or CV. In addition, applicants must arrange to have three letters of recommendation (at least one should address the candidate's teaching abilities) sent to the Chairperson at stockbri[at]uwm.edu at Department of Mathematical Sciences, University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee, Milwaukee, WI 53201-0413. Review of applications will start by November 15, 2010 and will continue until the position is filled. UW-Milwaukee is an AA/EEO employer. +++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++ 2.3 Faculty position in gravitational physics/cosmology at University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Announcement on Hyperspace@AEI: http://hyperspace.aei.mpg.de/2010/10/27/faculty-position-in-gravitational-p… Institution: Milwaukee, WI, USA Deadline: Wed, Dec 01, 2010 Additional Information: http://www.gravity.phys.uwm.edu/positions.html The Department of Physics at the University of Wisconsin—Milwaukee (UWM) invites applications for a tenure-track assistant or tenured associate professorship, beginning Fall 2011. Areas of interest include but are not limited to: cosmology, numerical relativity, computational astrophysics, and astro-particle physics. We are seeking candidates who have an outstanding research and publication record and who have promise of excellent teaching. A PhD in physics, astronomy or closely related field is required. The position is associated with the Center for Gravitation and Cosmology, home to seven professors, one visiting professor, 11 post-doctoral researchers and staff scientists, and a number of graduate and undergraduate students. UWM is committed to excellence in research, and provides substantial internal funding opportunities. To apply, submit a cover letter, CV (including list of publications), and description of research interests electronically at http://jobs.uwm.edu/postings/4958 and arrange to have three letters of reference emailed to cgc-faculty-search[at]gravity.phys.uwm.edu or sent to: CGC Physics Search Committee, University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee, Department of Physics, 1900 E. Kenwood Blvd., Milwaukee, WI 53211. Review of applications will begin on December 1, 2010 and will continue until the position is filled. UWM is an equal opportunity/ affirmative action employer. +++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++ 2.4 Postdoctoral Fellowships and Research Associate Positions at CITA --------------------------------------------------------------------- Announcement on Hyperspace@AEI: http://hyperspace.aei.mpg.de/2010/10/26/postdoctoral-fellowships-and-resear… Institution: Toronto, Canada Deadline: Mon, Nov 15, 2010 Additional Information: http://www.cita.utoronto.ca/index.php/Working-CITA CITA is a national centre for theoretical astrophysics located at the University of Toronto. The Institute expects to offer several postdoctoral fellowships of two to three years duration this year, as well as one or more Research Associate positions of three to five years duration. The starting date will be September 1, 2011. Funds will be available for travel and other research expenses. Fellows are expected to carry out original research in theoretical astrophysics under the general supervision of the faculty at CITA, whose interests include: cosmology, interstellar matter, nuclear and relativistic astrophysics, numerical relativity, gravitational waves, gamma ray bursts, solar physics, star and planet formation. Please apply electronically, following the instructions at http://www.cita.utoronto.ca under “Working at CITA”. Deadline for applications and letters of recommendation is November 15, 2010. +++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++ 2.5 Faculty Position in Cosmology/Astroparticle Physics/Gravitational Waves at UMD ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Announcement on Hyperspace@AEI: http://hyperspace.aei.mpg.de/2010/10/21/faculty-position-in-cosmologyastrop… Institution: College Park, MD, USA Deadline: Wed, Dec 15, 2010 Additional Information: http://jsi.astro.umd.edu/ The Department of Physics at the University of Maryland (UMD) invites applications for a professorial position in theoretical physics in the areas of cosmology, dark energy, dark matter, high-energy astrophysics, astroparticle physics and gravitational waves. We are primarily interested in candidates at the non-tenured assistant professor rank, but we will consider applications for a tenured position in exceptional cases. The successful candidate will be part of the Joint Space-Science Institute (JSI) recently established between the Astronomy and Physics Departments at UMD and the NASA Goddard Flight Space Center located a few miles from the UMD campus. Information about the JSI can be found here http://jsi.astro.umd.edu/ Applications are accepted through https://jobs.umd.edu/ (sort for position number 116793). Required are (1) a cover letter, (2) curriculum vitae, (3) statement of research interests and plans, (4) statement of teaching philosophy and (5) the names and email addresses of four reference writers. Requests for letters of reference will be generated UPON COMPLETION OF THE ONLINE APPLICATION. Candidates are thus advised to apply promptly. For full consideration all application materials and reference letters should be received by December 15, 2010. +++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++ 2.6 Postdoctoral position in theoretical/computational astrophysics at Johns Hopkins University ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Announcement on Hyperspace@AEI: http://hyperspace.aei.mpg.de/2010/10/21/postdoctoral-position-in-theoretica… Institution: Baltimore, MD, USA Deadline: Wed, Dec 15, 2010 Additional Information: http://academicjobsonline.org Applications are invited for a postdoctoral position in theoretical/computational astrophysics at the Center for Astrophysical Sciences of Johns Hopkins University. Working under the supervision of Prof. Julian Krolik at JHU, the postdoctoral fellow will join a team (Manuela Campanelli, Carlos Lousto, Yosef Zlochower, and Scott Noble (RIT), Jim Stone (Princeton), and John Hawley (Virginia)) using numerical simulations to study the role interstellar gas plays in every aspect of supermassive black hole mergers, including potential photon signals diagnostic of these events. We expect that the broad scope of this effort will lead to additional investigations in related areas, such as accretion physics, numerical relativity, and galaxy evolution. The starting date for this position is flexible, but could be as early as spring or as late as fall, 2011. Officially it must be renewed annually, but it is intended to extend for three years. Applicants should send a letter of application, CV, a list of publications, and a statement of research interests to AcademicJobsOnline at http://academicjobsonline.org . Three letters of recommendation should also be submitted through AcademicJobsOnLine. However, we will also accept letters sent to: Barbara Dreyfus Center for Astrophysical Sciences Johns Hopkins University 517 Bloomberg Center 3400 N Charles St Baltimore, MD 21218 The deadline for receipt of application materials is December 15, 2010. Johns Hopkins University is an EEO/AA employer. +++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++ 2.7 PhD positions in GW data analysis at Nikhef, Amsterdam ---------------------------------------------------------- Announcement on Hyperspace@AEI: http://hyperspace.aei.mpg.de/2010/10/20/phd-positions-in-gw-data-analysis-a… Institution: Amsterdam, The Netherlands Deadline: Sat, Jan 01, 2011 Additional Information: http://www.nikhef.nl/generalstorage/tt-news/vacatures/back_to/nikhef/articl… The gravitational physics group at Nikhef in Amsterdam, The Netherlands, invites applications for one or more PhD positions in the detection and interpretation of gravitational waves, particularly from coalescing compact binaries. The group is a member of the Virgo collaboration, is active in the LISA effort, and plays an important role in the Einstein Telescope design study. It is led by Prof. dr. J.F.J. van den Brand and currently consists of 9 staff members in instrumentation, theory, and data analysis, 3 postdocs, and 5 students. There is also vibrant collaboration with individuals and groups around the world. The Nikhef group itself will expand significantly over the next several years. More information about our activities can be found at http://www.nikhef.nl/en/for-nikhef-users/departments/scientific-departments…. The PhD positions are for 4 years. Applicants should send a CV and a brief statement of research interests, preferably by e-mail, before January 1st 2011, to Dr. Chris Van Den Broeck (vdbroeck[at]nikhef.nl) with a c.c. to Teus van Egdom (pz[at]nikhef.nl). Please also arrange to have two letters of recommendation sent to these addresses. Applications may also be sent by regular mail to: Nikhef Personnel Department, Science Park 105, NL-1098 XG Amsterdam. Please quote the vacancy number 100995. All qualified individuals are encouraged to apply. +++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++ 2.8 Postdoctoral position(s) in loop quantum gravity at LSU ----------------------------------------------------------- Announcement on Hyperspace@AEI: http://hyperspace.aei.mpg.de/2010/10/16/postdoctoral-positions-in-loop-quan… Institution: Baton Rouge, LA, USA Deadline: Wed, Dec 15, 2010 Additional Information: https://lsusystemcareers.lsu.edu/applicants/Central?quickFind=52481 The theoretical relativity group expects to have, contingent on funding, openings for postdoctoral or senior postdoctoral researchers working in loop quantum gravity starting September 2011. The initial appointment will be for one year and is expected to be renewed for another one or two years subject to satisfactory progress and availability of funds. The core relativity group at LSU consists of Peter Diener, Kristina Giesel, Jorge Pullin, Parampreet Singh, four postdocs and several graduate students. In addition to that LSU hosts a strong experimental gravity group with activity in LIGO, whose Livingston site is 30 miles away from Baton Rouge. LSU is also host to the Center for Computation & Technology (CCT), a multidisciplinary research center which includes computational groups in several areas of science, engineering, and the humanities. Several researchers in the relativity group have joint appointments at CCT. Salary is commensurate with qualifications and experience. An offer of employment is contingent on a satisfactory pre-employment background check. Application deadline is December 15th , 2010 or until a candidate is selected. For full details or to submit an application visit https://lsusystemcareers.lsu.edu/applicants/Central?quickFind=52481 The LSU System is an equal opportunity/equal access employer +++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++ 2.9 Postdoctoral positions in Astrophysical Relativity at the AEI ----------------------------------------------------------------- Announcement on Hyperspace@AEI: http://hyperspace.aei.mpg.de/2010/10/14/postdoctoral-positions-in-astrophys… Institution: Potsdam, Germany Deadline: Wed, Dec 15, 2010 Additional Information: http://numrel.aei.mpg.de The Astrophysical Relativity division at the Max Planck Institute for Gravitational physics (Albert Einstein Institute) in Potsdam, Germany, anticipates the filling of three postdoctoral positions within the "numerical-relativity" group. The positions are tied to funds for research in the following areas: a) inspiral and merger of binary black holes b) electromagnetic counterparts to the merger of supermassive black-hole binaries c) inspiral and merger of binary neutron stars Candidates with interests and expertise in the above areas are particularly encouraged to apply, but candidates with more generic backgrounds will also be considered. The numerical-relativity group is led by Luciano Rezzolla and is primarily but not exclusively concerned with the numerical solution of the Einstein equations and with the modelling of compact objects, such as neutron stars and black holes. Its work is a multi-disciplinary effort, spanning the fields of relativistic astrophysics, hydrodynamics and magnetohydrodynamics, differential geometry, mathematics of nonlinear partial differential equations and high performance computing. To learn more about the group, please visit: http://numrel.aei.mpg.de The Albert Einstein Institute also hosts a Divisions in Mathematical Relativity and Quantum Gravity and has an extremely active visitors program. It enjoys close proximity to the Universities of Potsdam and Berlin, the Astrophysics Institute of Potsdam, and has excellent in-house supercomputing facilities. To learn more about the Institute, please visit: http://www.aei.mpg.de The positions are for one year and renewable up to three depending on satisfactory progress. The appointments are expected to begin around Sept. 1, 2011, but an earlier date is also possible. The deadline for applications is Dec. 15, 2010. Applications can be made online via the web interface at https://lotus1.aei.mpg.de/job-form.nsf/registrationNR.xsp Applicants should upload a CV, a publication list, a research summary specifying which position they are interested in, and should arrange for 3 letters of reference. The Albert Einstein Institute is an equal-opportunity employer and hires on the basis of merit. Applications from individuals with disabilities, minorities, and women are encouraged. +++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++ 2.10 Postdoctoral position in theoretical cosmology at Portsmouth ----------------------------------------------------------------- Announcement on Hyperspace@AEI: http://hyperspace.aei.mpg.de/2010/10/14/postdoctoral-position-in-theoretica… Institution: Portsmouth, UK Deadline: Wed, Jan 05, 2011 Additional Information: http://www.port.ac.uk/vacancies/academic/ The Institute of Cosmology & Gravitation (ICG) intends to appoint two postdoctoral researchers in theoretical cosmology. A PhD degree and relevant research experience are required for these posts, which are expected to start on or before 1st OCTOBER 2011. Post 10000868 is funded by the European Research Council and the Leverhulme trust, and is for up to two years; the researcher will work on projects which include modified gravity models as an alternative to dark energy and models for the origin of structure in the early universe. Post 10000869 is funded by the STFC and is for up to three years; the researcher will work primarily on projects concerning the underlying theory and observational probes relevant to the study of dark energy. Informal queries about these posts can be made to Kazuya.Koyama[AT]port.ac.uk (10000868) or Robert.Crittenden[AT]port.ac.uk (10000869). The ICG consists of 11 academic staff, 13 postdoctoral researchers and 18 PhD students, and is a member of the Sloan Digital Sky Survey (SDSS-III), the Dark Energy Survey, the UK Low Frequency Array Consortium (LOFAR:UK) and the UK National Cosmology Supercomputer Consortium (COSMOS). An online application form is available at http://www.port.ac.uk/vacancies/downloads/applicationform.doc or via email (jobs[AT]port.ac.uk), quoting the post reference number (or numbers.) Applications (Application Form, CV, research statement) should be sent by email to jobs[AT]port.ac.uk and copied to icg-admin[AT]port.ac.uk. Applicants should also arrange for two letters of reference to be sent by email to icg-admin[AT]port.ac.uk, to arrive by the closing date, 5th JANUARY 2011. Late applications may be considered until the post has been filled. http://www.icg.port.ac.uk (Institute of Cosmology & Gravitation website) http://www.port.ac.uk/vacancies/academic/ (University of Portsmouth job site) http://www.port.ac.uk/vacancies/downloads/applicationform.doc (Application form) +++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++ 2.11 Postdoctoral Position in Gravitational Wave Astrophysics at Georgia Tech ----------------------------------------------------------------------------- Announcement on Hyperspace@AEI: http://hyperspace.aei.mpg.de/2010/10/13/postdoctoral-position-in-gravitatio… Institution: Atlanta, GA, USA Deadline: Tue, Nov 30, 2010 Additional Information: http://www.cra.gatech.edu The Georgia Tech Center for Relativistic Astrophysics (CRA) invites applications for a postdoctoral scholar position in the area of gravitational wave astrophysics including numerical relativity. The appointment will initially be for one year, renewable for up to three years subject to availability of funds and satisfactory progress. The expected starting date is September 2011. The research would focus on compact object binaries, accretion physics, electromagnetic counterparts and data analysis. The CRA is devoted to interdisciplinary research and education linking high-energy , particle gravitational wave astrophysics. Center faculty working on these areas include David Ballantyne, Pablo Laguna (director), Deirdre Shoemaker and Ignacio Taboada. For more information visit <http://www.cra.gatech.edu/>. Applicants should email to cra[at]physics.gatech.edu the following documents in PDF format: 1) cover letter with names of three references, 2) curriculum vitae including full list of publications, and 3) a brief description of research interests (maximum 2 pages). In addition, applicants should arrange to have three letters of reference e-mailed separately to cra[at]physics.gatech.edu. Review of applications will begin November 30, 2010. Georgia Tech is committed to affirmative action, equal opportunity and the diversity of its workforce. +++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++ 2.12 Postdoctoral position at the Rochester Institute of Technology ------------------------------------------------------------------- Announcement on Hyperspace@AEI: http://hyperspace.aei.mpg.de/2010/10/13/postdoctoral-position-at-the-roches… Institution: Rochester, NY, USA Deadline: Tue, Feb 01, 2011 Additional Information: http://ccrg.rit.edu/announce/jobs The Center for Computational Relativity and Gravitation (CCRG) at Rochester Institute of Technology (RIT) anticipates filling a postdoctoral position in the coming year. We are looking for postdoctoral candidates interested in working in a broad range of areas of computational astrophysical relativity and gravitational wave physics. The Center currently includes seven faculty members: Hans-Peter Bischof, Manuela Campanelli (CCRG Director), Joshua Faber, Carlos Lousto, David Merritt, John Whelan and Yosef Zlochower; four postdoctoral researchers: Scott Noble, Hiroyuki Nakano, Bruno Mundim, and David Urminsky; and several graduate and undergraduate students. Candidates are sought in both numerical source modeling and its interface with gravitational wave data analysis, in areas associated with the activities of the CCRG. These include numerical relativity and simulation of coalescing astrophysical compact objects such as black-hole and/or neutron star binaries and their interactions with gaseous environments, and initial data for relativistic binary systems. Our group is active in the LSC, NINJA, and NR-AR collaborations. The position is for one year and renewable depending on satisfactory performance and the availability of funds. CCRG researchers have access to several computing cluster facilities at national computing centers as well as a dedicated 500 core, 104-node cluster with 4/8 processor cores per node for numerical relativity simulations hosted in the Center. RIT is also a member of the LIGO Scientific Collaboration (LSC), and CCRG members participate in the analysis of data from the LIGO, GEO-600 and Virgo gravitational wave detectors, using computing resources at RIT and other LSC institutions. Information about the CCRG is available at http://ccrg.rit.edu/ Review of completed applications will begin February 1st, 2010 and continue until all positions are filled. Applications should consist of a cover letter, statement of research interests, a curriculum vitae including publication list, and at least three letters of recommendation. Applicants should send all materials electronically as soon as possible to: Manuela Campanelli <manuela[at]astro.rit.edu> Center for Computational Relativity and Gravitation School of Mathematical Sciences (SMS) Rochester Institute of Technology (RIT) 85 Lomb Memorial Drive Rochester, New York 14623 USA +++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++ 2.13 Postdoctoral Positions in Gravitational Physics at Montana State --------------------------------------------------------------------- Announcement on Hyperspace@AEI: http://hyperspace.aei.mpg.de/2010/10/09/postdoctoral-positions-in-gravitati… Institution: Bozeman, MT Deadline: Wed, Dec 15, 2010 Additional Information: http://www.montana.edu/msuinfo/jobs/prof/ The Gravity Group in the Department of Physics at Montana State University (MSU) seeks applicants for two postdoctoral positions. Both are two year appointments starting in the Fall of 2011. One position (with Dr. Yunes) will concentrate on general relativity theory, with an emphasis on gravitational wave aspects, post-Newtonian theory, black hole perturbation theory, or strong-field tests of GR. The other position will (with Dr. Cornish) concentrate on gravitational wave astronomy and data analysis, with a focus on LIGO and LISA applications. The successful applicants will be encouraged to collaborate with all members of the Gravity Group. Candidates with expertise in general relativity, gravitational wave astronomy, and data analysis are encouraged to apply. Candidates must hold a Ph.D. in Physics or a related field. MSU has been home to a Gravity Group for over 40 years. Current faculty members in the group are Neil Cornish, Ron Hellings and Nicolas Yunes. In the related field of relativistic astrophysics we have faculty members Bennett Link and Sachiko Tsuruta. MSU is a member institution of the LIGO collaboration, and is represented on the LISA International Science Team. The Gravity Group's main areas of concentration include gravitational wave modeling within post-Newtonian theory and black hole perturbation theory, data analysis problems related to gravitational wave detection, the interface between astrophysics andgravitational wave theory, and theoretical and data analysis aspects of testing general relativity. We have strong collaborations with Princeton University, the Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Harvard University, the Goddard Space Flight Center, the Perimeter Institute and Cambridge University. The MSU Bozeman campus (http://www.montana.edu) is nestled in the Rocky Mountains, 90 miles north of Yellowstone National Park, with easy access to many outdoor recreation activities including world-class downhill and cross-country skiing, fly fishing, and numerous hiking and mountain biking trails. Bozeman is well served by four major airlines. Send via e-mail as a single PDF (1) a letter of application describing your research interests, (2) a resume with publication list, and (3) arrange for three letters of recommendation to be sent to cornish[at]physics.montana.edu. We request that at least one of the letters be from the candidate's current institution. For the complete job announcement and application procedures go to http://www.montana.edu/msuinfo/jobs/prof/ To receive full consideration applications should be received by December 15, 2010. Applications will continued to be screened until the positions are filled. Inquires may be directed to Neil Cornish (e-mail: cornish[at]physics.montana.edu, phone: (406) 994-7986) and/or Nico Yunes (e-mail: nyunes[at]space.mit.edu, phone: (814) 883-2069). ADA/EO/AA/Veteran Preference. Women and minorities are encouraged to apply. +++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++ 2.14 Junior professorship at the APC laboratory, University Paris Denis Diderot ------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Announcement on Hyperspace@AEI: http://hyperspace.aei.mpg.de/2010/10/05/junior-professorship-at-the-apc-lab… Institution: Paris, France We expect to have a Maitre de Conference position [1-3] at the Department of Physics, University Paris Denis Diderot (this is a permanent position on a junior professor level and corresponds to assistant professor positions in the US university system). The position will start on September 1st, 2011. The selection is a two-stage process. A first national pre-application step (qualification) is required and pre-registration needs to be completed by October 28, 2010 (see the complete time-line below). The second part of the selection process will take place in spring 2011. The details for pre-application (in French only) can be found at https://www.galaxie.enseignementsup-recherche.gouv.fr/ensup/candidats.html The successful candidate will share his/her time between teaching at undergraduate and graduate levels, and research. The teaching will be conducted in French. The successful candidate will have the opportunity to take part in the data analysis activities of the Laboratoire AstroParticule et Cosmologie (APC). In particular, the Laboratory has specific needs in the area of novel data analysis methods and algorithms aimed at current (Virgo) and future (LISA) gravitational wave experiments. All applicants in this field are encouraged to apply. The selected candidate is expected to become a member of the ADAMIS research group at the Laboratory. ADAMIS is a dynamic, interdisciplinary group composed of experts in diverse areas of research, including physicists, data analysts, applied mathematicians, and the objectives of which are innovative approaches to data analysis of current and forthcoming, astrophysical and cosmological data sets. The group also benefits from the resources and opportunities offered by the newly opened Space Mission Data Center (Centre Francois Arago). At this time the members of the group are involved in the analysis of the Cosmic Microwave Background (Planck, EBEX, POLARBeaR) and gravitational wave (Virgo, LISA) experiments. There is also work being conducted on cutting-edge hydrodynamical simulations in various astrophysical contexts. Application time-table: First step: Qualification [4] Pre-registration deadline: October 28, 2010, 4pm (Paris time) Application deadline: December 17, 2010 ------------------------- Second step: Selection (anticipated) Spring 2011 Post start date: September 1st 2011 Useful links: Additional documentation about Maitre de Conferences and the selection procedure [1] http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Academic_rank_in_France [2] http://www.enseignementsup-recherche.gouv.fr/cid22657/maitres-de-conference… [3] https://www.galaxie.enseignementsup-recherche.gouv.fr/ensup/candidats.html [4] https://www.galaxie.enseignementsup-recherche.gouv.fr/ensup/pdf/calendrier qualification 2011.pdf Laboratoire APC: http://www.apc.univ-paris7.fr/APC_CS/ ADAMIS: http://www.apc.univ-paris7.fr/APC_CS/recherche/adamis Dept of Physics, University Paris-Diderot: http://www.physique.univ-paris-diderot.fr/ Centre Francois Arago: http://www.apc.univ-paris7.fr/APC_GP/html/sites_evenements/CFA/index.html Contact information: Radek Stompor: radek[AT]apc.univ-paris7.fr Ed Porter: porter[AT]apc.univ-paris7.fr Eric Chassande-Mottin: ecm[AT]apc.univ-paris7.fr +++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++ 2.15 Faculty positions at IPMU ------------------------------ Announcement on Hyperspace@AEI: http://hyperspace.aei.mpg.de/2010/10/03/faculty-positions-at-ipmu/ Institution: Kashiwa, Japan Deadline: Wed, Dec 01, 2010 Additional Information: http://www.ipmu.jp/job-opportunities The "Institute for the Physics and Mathematics of the Universe" (IPMU) is a new international research institute with English as its official language established in October 2007. The goal of the institute is to discover the fundamental laws of nature and to understand the universe from the synergistic perspectives of mathematics, statistics, theoretical and experimental physics, and astronomy. We are particularly interested in candidates with broad interests to interact with people from other subfields. We intend to appoint a few assistant professors to 5-year terms, with a possible extension for five more years contingent on review and funding. This is the equivalent of tenure-track positions at IPMU. We also intend to appoint a few associate and full professors for the upcoming terms for as long as funding is allowed. This is the equivalent of tenured positions at IPMU. We seek to build a diverse, highly interactive membership, and female and international applicants are strongly encouraged. We have generous travel support for our postdocs, and encourage full-time members to be away from the Institute for between 1 and 3 months every year. The initial focus of IPMU includes but is not limited to: all areas of mathematics (e.g. algebra, geometry, analysis, and statistics); string theory and mathematical physics; particle theory, collider phenomenology, beyond the standard model physics phenomenology; cosmology and astrophysics theory; astronomy and observational cosmology; and underground experiments. We are leading efforts on the XMASS dark matter experiment, the HyperSuprimeCam project for weak lensing surveys at the Subaru telescope, GADZOOKS! at Super-Kamiokande, the Xe-based double beta-decay search in KamLAND, and R&D for future large neutrino detectors. IPMU is a full institutional member in SDSS-III. IPMU is on the Kashiwa campus of the University of Tokyo. More than half of its full-time scientific members come from outside Japan. Its annual budget is approximately $15M. IPMU has a satellite in Kamioka to maintain close connection with experimental groups. The applications should include a CV, research statement, publication list, and letters of recommendation. Applications received via IPMU application form https://db.ipmu.jp/application/2010/ or AcademicJobsOnline https://academicjobsonline.org/ajo/UT/IPMU will be treated equally in screening process. The search is open until filled, but for full considerations please submit the applications and letters by Dec 1, 2010. +++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++ 2.16 Postdoctoral Fellows at IPMU --------------------------------- Announcement on Hyperspace@AEI: http://hyperspace.aei.mpg.de/2010/10/03/postdoctoral-fellows-at-ipmu/ Institution: Kashiwa, Japan Deadline: Wed, Dec 01, 2010 Additional Information: http://www.ipmu.jp/job-opportunities The "Institute for the Physics and Mathematics of the Universe" (IPMU) is a new international research institute with English as its official language established in October 2007. The goal of the institute is to discover the fundamental laws of nature and to understand the universe from the synergistic perspectives of mathematics, statistics, theoretical and experimental physics, and astronomy. We are particularly interested in candidates with broad interests to interact with people from other subfields. We intend to appoint approximately 12 postdocs to three-year terms. We seek to build a diverse, highly interactive membership, and female and international applicants are strongly encouraged. We have generous travel support for our postdocs, and encourage full-time members to be away from the Institute for between 1 and 3 months every year. The initial focus of IPMU includes but is not limited to: all areas of mathematics (e.g. algebra, geometry, analysis, and statistics); string theory and mathematical physics; particle theory, collider phenomenology, beyond the standard model physics phenomenology; cosmology and astrophysics theory; astronomy and observational cosmology; and underground experiments. We are leading efforts on the XMASS dark matter experiment, the HyperSuprimeCam project for weak lensing surveys at the Subaru telescope, GADZOOKS! at Super-Kamiokande, the Xe-based double beta-decay search in KamLAND, and R&D for future large neutrino detectors. IPMU is a full institutional member in SDSS-III. IPMU is on the Kashiwa campus of the University of Tokyo. More than half of its full-time scientific members come from outside Japan. Its annual budget is approximately $15M. IPMU has a satellite in Kamioka to maintain close connection with experimental groups. The applications should include a CV, research statement, publication list, and at least three letters of recommendation. Applications received via IPMU application form https://db.ipmu.jp/application/2010/ or AcademicJobsOnline https://academicjobsonline.org/ajo/UT/IPMU will be treated equally in screening process. The search is open until filled, but for full considerations please submit the applications and letters by Dec 1, 2010. +++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++ 2.17 Postdoctoral position in theoretical gravity at University of Tartu ------------------------------------------------------------------------ Announcement on Hyperspace@AEI: http://hyperspace.aei.mpg.de/2010/10/02/postdoctoral-position-in-theoretica… Institution: Tartu, Estonia Additional Information: http://hexagon.fi.tartu.ee/ Estonian Science Foundation (ESF) runs two programs offering postdoc grants at Estonian research institutions: MOBILITAS (Researcher Mobility Programme) and ERMOS (Estonian Research Mobility Scheme), the latter is financed in conjunction with FP7 Marie Curie COFUND "People". The gravitation theory group at the Laboratory of Theoretical Physics, Institute of Physics, University of Tartu, Estonia is looking for a suitable postdoc candidate to apply for one of these grants, who would be able to contribute to or complement the ongoing research of the group. Key points General research area: theoretical aspects of gravity; Preferred topics: extensions of Einstein's general relativity (e.g. scalar-tensor gravity), theoretical cosmology beyond the concordance model (especially dark energy). Duration of the grant: 2 or 3 years. Amount of the grant: 19,200 EUR per year for salary (pre-tax), 3,200 EUR per year for research costs, and a one-time relocation allowance to move in to Estonia. Eligibility: The post-doctoral research grant can be applied for by a person who has been awarded a doctoral degree or an equivalent qualification not earlier than five years before the start of the grant. (In case that, after obtaining the degree, the applicant was on parental leave or in compulsory military service, the period of qualification is extended by the period of the parental leave or compulsory military service.) Application The deadlines for MOBILITAS applications are usually in October/November and March, and for ERMOS in April. NB! The postdoc application to ESF is submitted together by the applicant and the host institution. Therefore interested candidates are first invited to send a CV, a list of publications, a brief research proposal, and a letter of recommendation to Dr. Piret Kuusk (piret[AT]fi.tartu.ee), head of the gravitation theory group. The next round of MOBILITAS applications closes on 10 November 2010, but in order to have sufficient time to prepare the joint application to ESF, we expect the candidates to make contact by 25 October 2010 the latest. ================================================================= 3. News ================================================================= 3.1 Numerical Relativity: Solving Einstein's Equations on the Computer (New Book) ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Announcement on Hyperspace@AEI: http://hyperspace.aei.mpg.de/2010/10/29/numerical-relativity-solving-einste… Additional Information: http://www.cambridge.org/us/knowledge/isbn/item2707919/?site_locale=en_US Numerical Relativity: Solving Einstein's Equations on the Computer T. W. Baumgarte and S. L. Shapiro Cambridge University Press, 2010 Aimed at students and researchers entering the field, this pedagogical introduction to numerical relativity will also interest scientists seeking a broad survey of its challenges and achievements. Assuming only a basic knowledge of classical general relativity, this textbook develops the mathematical formalism from first principles, then highlights some of the pioneering simulations involving black holes and neutron stars, gravitational collapse and gravitational waves. Applications include calculations of coalescing binary black holes and binary neutron stars, rotating stars, colliding star clusters, gravitational and magnetorotational collapse, critical phenomena, the generation of gravitational waves, and many more. Features of the book include: - 300 exercises help readers master new material as it is presented. - Numerous illustrations, many in color, assist in visualizing new geometric concepts and highlighting the results of computer simulations. - Summary boxes encapsulate some of the most important results for quick reference. - Applications cover topics of current physical and astrophysical significance. For details, see http://www.cambridge.org/us/knowledge/isbn/item2707919/?site_locale=en_US +++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++ 3.2 Living Reviews in Relativity: "Quantization of Midisuperspace Models" ------------------------------------------------------------------------- Announcement on Hyperspace@AEI: http://hyperspace.aei.mpg.de/2010/10/20/living-reviews-in-relativity-quanti… Additional Information: http://www.livingreviews.org/lrr-2010-6 Living Reviews in Relativity has published a new review article on "Quantization of Midisuperspace Models" by J. Fernando Barbero González and Eduardo J.S. Villaseñor on October 14, 2010. Please find the abstract and further details below. ------------------ PUB.NO. lrr-2010-6 Barbero G., J. Fernando and Villaseñor, Eduardo J.S. "Quantization of Midisuperspace Models" ACCEPTED: 2010-09-28 PUBLISHED: 2010-10-14 FULL ARTICLE AT: http://www.livingreviews.org/lrr-2010-6 ABSTRACT: We give a comprehensive review of the quantization of midisuperspace models. Though the main focus of the paper is on quantum aspects, we also provide an introduction to several classical points related to the definition of these models. We cover some important issues, in particular, the use of the principle of symmetric criticality as a very useful tool to obtain the required Hamiltonian formulations. Two main types of reductions are discussed: those involving metrics with two Killing vector fields and spherically-symmetric models. We also review the more general models obtained by coupling matter fields to these systems. Throughout the paper we give separate discussions for standard quantizations using geometrodynamical variables and those relying on loop-quantum-gravity--inspired methods. UPCOMING ARTICLES AT: http://relativity.livingreviews.org/Articles/upcoming.html +++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++ 3.3 Read the 2010 CERN Winter School in Classical & Quantum Gravity ----------------------------------------------------------------------- Announcement on Hyperspace@AEI: http://hyperspace.aei.mpg.de/2010/10/19/read-the-2010-cern-winter-school-in… Additional Information: http://herald.iop.org/link/4003 As a researcher with an interest in gravitational physics, we invite you to read the latest Classical & Quantum Gravity special section ‘Lectures from the CERN Winter School on Strings, Supergravity and Gauge Theory, CERN, 25 – 29 January 2010'. The articles included within the special section are free to read online until 18 April 2011, and can be accessed by visiting http://herald.iop.org/link/4003 Please feel free to pass this message on to friends and colleagues. Yours sincerely, Adam Day Publisher, Classical and Quantum Gravity cqg(a)iop.org iopscience.org/cqg +++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++ 3.4 Read the Classical & Quantum Gravity GWDAW-14 Special Issue ------------------------------------------------------------------- Announcement on Hyperspace@AEI: http://hyperspace.aei.mpg.de/2010/10/19/read-the-classical-quantum-gravity-… Additional Information: http://herald.iop.org/link/4002 You may be interested in reading the Classical & Quantum Gravity special issue featuring selected articles from the ‘The 14th Gravitational Wave Data Analysis Workshop’ (GWDAW-14), Rome, Italy, 26 – 29 January 2010. The articles included within the special issue are free to read online until 22 March 2011, and can be accessed by visiting http://herald.iop.org/link/4002 You may also be interested to know that Journal of Physics Conference Series, the open access conference proceedings publication, has publish additional papers from this conference http://herald.iop.org/link/4004 Please feel free to mention this special issue to friends and colleagues. Yours sincerely, Adam Day Publisher, Classical and Quantum Gravity cqg(a)iop.org www.iopscience.org/cqg ----------------------- CQG Highlights of 2009 The collection of Classical & Quantum Gravity’s Highlights of 2008–2009 is still free to read until 01 November 2010, and can be accessed through the following link: http://herald.iop.org/link/4001 +++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++ 3.5 2010 Gravitational Physics Group Thesis Prize sponsored by Classical and Quantum Gravity -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Announcement on Hyperspace@AEI: http://hyperspace.aei.mpg.de/2010/10/12/2010-gravitational-physics-group-th… Additional Information: http://gp.iop.org/ Second call for nominations 2010 Closing date for nominations: 17th December 2010 The 2010 Gravitational Physics Group Thesis Prize, sponsored by Classical and Quantum Gravity (CQG), will be made for excellence in postgraduate research and communication skills in gravitational physics. All members of the IOP Gravitational Physics Group who passed their PhD viva voce exam between 30 September 2008 and 1 October 2009 are entitled to enter the competition. The winner will be awarded £500 and they will be invited to submit a paper to CQG based on the winning thesis which, if accepted, will be made a 'select article' in CQG. Furthermore, the winner will be given the opportunity to present their work at one of the UK 'BritGrav' meetings. Anyone (student or otherwise) can nominate a candidate (including the candidate themselves). If you have someone in mind, please send an email to the IOP Gravitational Physics Group secretary (David Burton at d.burton-at-lancaster.ac.uk) containing the candidate's contact details and the committee will encourage them to enter the competition. The candidate must be a member of the IOP Gravitational Physics Group, and will be asked to provide their IOP membership number. Please note that the student's external PhD examiner must be willing to comment on the student's research, quality of the student's thesis and the student's ability to cogently communicate their work (evidenced by their viva performance and/or seminars). Students are advised to consult their external examiner before entering the competition. For information on how to enter the competition please click 'Group Prize' on the IOP Gravitational Physics Group web page http://gp.iop.org/

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[Hyperspace-list] Hyperspace Bulletin for October 2010
by Frank Schulz 02 Oct '10

02 Oct '10

################################################################# Table of Contents ################################################################# 1. Conferences 1.1 LOOPS 11 (First announcement) 1.2 Advances in Computational Astrophysics: Methods, Tools and Outcomes 1.3 Essential Cosmology for the Next Generation: Cosmology on the Beach 2. Jobs 2.1 Postdoctoral Position in Quantum Gravity at UC Davis 2.2 Post-doctoral Research Associate in gravitational wave/LIGO science at the University of Mississippi 2.3 Lecturer in Theoretical Physics (Astroparticle Physics and Cosmology) at Christchurch (NZ) 2.4 Postdoctoral Position in Gravitational Physics at Washington University, St. Louis 2.5 Postdoctoral Research Associate in Numerical Relativity or Computational Astrophysics at the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign 2.6 Postdoctoral VESF fellowship for Theoretical Gravitational-Wave Studies at Valencia 2.7 Postdoc position in early-universe, black-hole physics or quantum gravity at IISER-TVM 2.8 Senior and junior faculty positions in astroparticle physics at University of Amsterdam 2.9 Faculty Position in Computational Astrophysics and Cosmology at Georgia Tech 2.10 Postdoctoral position in theoretical gravity at University of Tartu 3. News 3.1 Living Reviews in Relativity: Updated Articles 3.2 Highlights and Conclusions of the 14th Paris Cosmology Colloquium Chalonge 2010 ================================================================= 1. Conferences ================================================================= 1.1 LOOPS 11 (First announcement) --------------------------------- Announcement on Hyperspace@AEI: http://hyperspace.aei.mpg.de/2010/09/30/loops-11-first-announcement/ Starting Mon, May 23, 2011 to Sat, May 28, 2011 Location: Madrid, Spain Additional Information: http://www.iem.csic.es/loops11/ LOOPS 11: "Celebrating 25 years of Loop Quantum Gravity" Madrid, Spain, 23-28 May 2011 FIRST ANNOUNCEMENT The LOOPS 11 conference will take place at the main campus of the CSIC in Madrid (SPAIN) in May 23-28, 2011. This edition will commemorate the twenty-fifth anniversary of the publication by Abhay Ashtekar of the landmark paper on the "new variables" that sparked the loop quantum gravity (LQG) revolution. The meeting will be the fifth in the series of regular LOOP conferences that have been celebrated, to this date, in Marseille, Potsdam, Morelia and Beijing. In addition to the expected participation of LQG researchers, we would like to invite the quantum gravity community at large to be present in this occasion as this would provide a very fruitful exchange of ideas with researchers working on other approaches to the quantization of general relativity. The purpose of the meeting is to discuss the state of the art in LQG research and review the open issues and problems that must be solved to complete the quantization of general relativity in this framework. However we would like to place special emphasis on the impact of LQG on other approaches to quantum gravity and, reciprocally, on the exploration of ideas originating in other frameworks that could be eventually beneficial for LQG. SCIENTIFIC CONTENT The main topics that will be covered in the conference will be: • Foundations of Quantum Gravity. • Hamiltonian Loop Quantum Gravity. • Covariant Loop Quantum Gravity and Spinfoams. • Polymer Quantization and Quantum Field Theory. • Loop Quantum Cosmology. • Black Hole Physics. • Dynamical Triangulations and other discrete approaches. • Phenomenology derived from Quantum Gravity. The schedule will be divided in morning plenary sessions and a number of parallel sessions covering the subjects listed above. These will take place during the afternoons. INVITED SPEAKERS • Abhay Ashtekar (Penn State University, USA). • Martin Bojowald (Penn State University, USA). • Alejandro Corichi (UNAM-Morelia, Mexico). • Bianca Dittrich (Albert Einstein Institute, Germany). • Kristina Giesel (TU Munich, Germany). • Jerzy Lewandowski (Warsaw University, Poland). • Renate Loll (Utrecht University, Netherland). • Yongge Ma (Beijing Normal University, China). • Don Marolf (Univ. California-Santa Barbara, USA). • Daniele Oriti (Albert Einstein Institute, Germany). • Tomasz Pawlowski (Univeristy of New Brunswick, Canada). • Alejandro Pérez (Univ. Méditerranée, Marseille, France). • Jorge Pullin (Louisiana State University, USA). • Carlo Rovelli (Univ. Méditerranée, Marseille, France). • Hanno Sahlmann (Karslruhe University, Germany). • Parampreet Singh (Perimeter Institute, Canada). • Lee Smolin (Permiter Institute, Canada). • Thomas Thiemann (Univ. Erlangen-Nurnberg, Germany). • Madhavan Varadarajan (Raman Research Institute, India). INTERNATIONAL SCIENTIFIC COMMITTEE • Abhay Ashtekar (Penn State University, USA). • J. Fernando Barbero González (IEM, CSIC, Spain). • John Barrett (Nottingham University, UK). • José Manuel Cidade Mourão (Instituto Superior Técnico de Lisboa, Portugal). • Laurent Freidel (Perimeter Institute, Canada). • Jerzy Lewandowski (Warsaw University, Poland). • Guillermo A. Mena Marugán (IEM, CSIC, Spain). • Jorge Pullin (Louisiana State University, USA). • Carlo Rovelli (Univ. Méditerranée, Marseille, France). • Thomas Thiemann (Univ. Erlangen-Nurnberg, Germany) LOCAL ORGANIZING COMMITTEE • Guillermo A. Mena Marugán (IEM, CSIC). • J. Fernando Barbero González (IEM, CSIC). • Luis J. Garay Elizondo (Univ. Complutense, Madrid). • Eduardo J. Sánchez Villaseñor (Univ. Carlos III, Madrid). • Iñaky Garay Elizondo (Univ. Erlangen-Nürnbeg) • Mercedes Martín-Benito (AEI-Potsdam). • Gonzalo Olmo Alba (IFIC, CSIC). • Tomasz Pawlowski (Univ. New Brunswick e IEM-CSIC). • Mikel Fernández Méndez (IEM, CSIC). • Daniel Martín de Blas (IEM, CSIC). • Javier Olmedo Nieto (IEM, CSIC). ORGANIZATION Detailed information about registration, abstract submission, accommodation, travel and financial support for participants can be found in the conference web page. http://www.iem.csic.es/loops11/ This web page will be regularly updated with the necessary information. In particular the RELEVANT DATES and deadlines will be posted there. Looking forward to meeting you all, The local organizing committee. +++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++ 1.2 Advances in Computational Astrophysics: Methods, Tools and Outcomes ----------------------------------------------------------------------- Announcement on Hyperspace@AEI: http://hyperspace.aei.mpg.de/2010/09/30/advances-in-computational-astrophys… Starting Mon, Jun 13, 2011 to Fri, Jun 17, 2011 Location: Cefalù (Sicily), Italy Additional Information: http://www.oa-roma.inaf.it/meetings/cefalu/2011/Home.html PRELIMINARY ANNOUNCEMENT Scientific Rationale: Contemporary ground-based and space telescopes are fundamental tools for the study of the Cosmos. However, without a deep knowledge of the underlying physical processes, telescopes alone cannot help us to understand the physical Universe, the main topic of Astrophysics. Due to the complexity of the physical phenomena involved, from the atomic and molecular scales up to the large scales of the cosmic structures, as well as to the pervasive presence of gravity as a fundamental engine acting on all the spatial scales, this knowledge may be obtained through the use of massive simulations. This is made true thanks to the concurrent progress of computing machines and software. In this workshop, we intend to gather some of the most active researchers in various fields of computational Astrophysics (such as Stellar Formation and Evolution, Supernovae, Stellar Systems, Compact Interacting Objects, etc.) to talk about specific and common methods used in their studies, as well as abou t results and the way to make them available to the scientific community. Scientific Topics: - Fundamental physical processes (transport, advection, convection, etc.); - Stars: formation, evolution and final phases; - Supernovae and progenitors; - Compact interacting objects and gravitational waves; - Stellar systems: from small to large N-body problems; - Large-scale Structure; - Supercomputing methods and visualization tools. Organization SOC: D. Arnett (Univ. of Arizona, USA), W. Benz (Univ. of Bern, CH), S. Borgani (Univ. di Trieste, Italy), R. Capuzzo Dolcetta (Univ. of Roma La Sapienza, Italy, co-chair), A. Chieffi (INAF-IASF, Roma, Italy), J. Isern (IEEC-CSIC, Barcelona, Spain), M. Limongi (INAF-OAR, Roma, Italy, co-chair), A. Mezzacappa (Oak Ridge National Laboratory, USA), J. Monaghan (Monash Univ., Aus), B. Moore (ETH, Zurich, CH), E. Mueller (MPI, Garching, DE), L. Rezzolla (AEI, Potsdam, DE), R. Rosner (Univ. of Chicago, USA), T. Theuns (ICC, Durham, UK), A. Tornambe' (INAF-OAR, Roma, Italy) LOC: L. Burderi (Univ. of Cagliari, Italy), T. Di Salvo (Univ. of Palermo, Italy), G. Giobbi (INAF-OAR, Roma, Italy) , F. Lupinacci (Univ. of Roma La Sapienza, Italy) Scientific Program: There will be a number of invited talks (see the conference website for the list of confirmed invited speakers) offering an overview of the various topics, as well as contributed talks and posters. Information on abstract submission can be found at the conference website (http://www.oa-roma.inaf.it/meetings/cefalu/2011/Home.html) We plan to publish the conference proceedings with one of the main scientific publishers. The list of confirmed invited speakers and a preliminary programme will be made available on the conference website soon. We warmly invite interested people to fill the preregistration form in the conference website. General Information: The Conference will be held in Cefalù, a beautiful ancient and touristic town located on the northern cost of Sicily, about 70 km east of Palermo. It will take place from Monday, June 13 until Friday, June 17 in the Sala delle Capriate of the Historical Cefalù Town Hall in the historical center of Cefalù, facing the Arab-Norman Cathedral (Duomo). Part of the conference will also be hosted in the close-by Sala S. Caterina (poster sessions and coffee breaks). Computers and web facilities will be available in the rooms of the historical building hosting the Fondazione Mandralisca. The two buildings are close to each other. For general information about Cefalù, please consult the links of the conference website: http://www.oa-roma.inaf.it/meetings/cefalu/2011/Home.html Contacts: See the conference web site http://www.oa-roma.inaf.it/meetings/cefalu/2011/Home.html Refer also to the two conference chairmen: Roberto CAPUZZO DOLCETTA Dep. of Physics, Univ. of Roma La Sapienza, Italy e-mail: Roberto.capuzzodolcetta[at]uniroma1.it Phone: +39-06-49914535 Fax: +39-06-4857697 Marco LIMONGI INAF, Astronomical Observatory of Roma, Italy e-mail: marco.limongi[at]oa-roma.inaf.it Phone: +39-06-94286443 Fax: +39-06-9447243 +++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++ 1.3 Essential Cosmology for the Next Generation: Cosmology on the Beach ----------------------------------------------------------------------- Announcement on Hyperspace@AEI: http://hyperspace.aei.mpg.de/2010/09/07/essential-cosmology-for-the-next-ge… Starting Sun, Jan 09, 2011 to Sat, Jan 15, 2011 Location: Puerto Vallarta, Mexico Additional Information: http://bccp.lbl.gov/beach_program/index2011.html A range of topics in cosmology will be covered at the conference by eminent scholars in the field, with elements of both a winter school and the latest research topics. Students and postdocs will present posters and gave short talks. We hope that the beauty of the natural and cultural environment will act as a catalyst for young researchers to interact and generate new ideas. We encourage a diverse group of advanced graduate students and postdocs interested in attending to submit the Participant Application form, see more details in our web site. ================================================================= 2. Jobs ================================================================= 2.1 Postdoctoral Position in Quantum Gravity at UC Davis --------------------------------------------------------- Announcement on Hyperspace@AEI: http://hyperspace.aei.mpg.de/2010/09/30/postdoctoral-position-in-quantum-gr… Institution: Davis, CA, USA Deadline: Mon, Dec 06, 2010 Additional Information: http://particle.physics.ucdavis.edu/hefti/ We invite applications for a postdoctoral position at UC Davis in the area of quantum gravity theory and phenomenology, beginning in Fall 2011. We have two open positions, and candidates from both quantum gravity (this ad) and particle phenomenology/model building will be considered for both positions. We ask that applicants apply for only one of these positions. The faculty members of the group include Steve Carlip, Hsin-Chia Cheng, Jack Gunion, Markus Luty, and John Terning. We also have close contact with the UC Davis cosmology group, which includes Andreas Albrecht and Nemanja Kaloper. Applicants should send their CV, publication list, statement of research interests, and at least three letters of recommendation to Academic Jobs Online, http://academicjobsonline.org/ Review of applications will begin Dec. 6 2010, but late applications may be considered until the position has been filled. The initial appointment will be for two years, and may be extended to a third, contingent on performance and continued external funding. Further information may be found on our website: http://particle.physics.ucdavis.edu/hefti/ The University of California is an affirmative action/equal opportunity employer. The University undertakes affirmative action to assure equal employment opportunity for minorities and women, for persons with disabilities, and for special disabled veterans, Vietnam era veterans, and any other veterans who served on active duty during a war or in a campaign or expedition for which a campaign badge has been authorized. +++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++ 2.2 Post-doctoral Research Associate in gravitational wave/LIGO science at the University of Mississippi -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Announcement on Hyperspace@AEI: http://hyperspace.aei.mpg.de/2010/09/30/post-doctoral-research-associate-in… Institution: Oxford, MS, USA Deadline: Wed, Dec 01, 2010 Additional Information: https://jobs.olemiss.edu/applicants/jsp/shared/frameset/Frameset.jsp?time=1… A one-year post-doctoral research position is available for work in gravitational waves and experimental gravity within the Laser Interferometer Gravitational-wave Observatory (LIGO) group at the University of Mississippi. The LIGO group at the University of Mississippi contributes to the LIGO experiment in the areas of data analysis, detector characterization and outreach. The successful candidate for the position is expected to work effectively within the LIGO Scientific Collaboration in these areas. The appointment will be for one year, with extension possible upon continued funding. Actual salary will depend on experience, qualifications, and departmental budget. Candidates must have a PhD in physics and have prior experience in experimental gravity, gravitational-wave physics and data analysis. They should also have excellent programming skills, good communication skills and must be willing to work in a collaborative team environment. Qualified applicants should submit a cover letter, a resume, a statement of research achievements and proposal for upcoming research online at http://jobs.olemiss.edu and arrange to have three letters of recommendation sent by email to Dr. Marco Cavaglia at cavaglia[AT]olemiss.edu. At least one of the letters of recommendation must be from the candidate's current institution. Review of applications will begin immediately. Applications will be considered until the position is filled or until an adequate candidate pool is obtained. Prior to applying for the position, please prepare the electronic versions of the resume and cover letter to upload or to "copy and paste" when prompted. You will not have the opportunity to attach them after you apply. The University of Mississippi is an EOE/AA/TitleVI/TitleIX/Section504/ADA/ADEA employer. Women and members of minority groups are strongly encouraged to apply. +++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++ 2.3 Lecturer in Theoretical Physics (Astroparticle Physics and Cosmology) at Christchurch (NZ) ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Announcement on Hyperspace@AEI: http://hyperspace.aei.mpg.de/2010/09/30/lecturer-in-theoretical-physics-ast… Institution: Christchurch, New Zealand Deadline: Fri, Nov 26, 2010 Additional Information: http://www.canterbury.ac.nz/hr/job_vacancies.shtml Applications are invited for a continuing position of Lecturer in Theoretical Physics. Applicants should have a Ph.D. and post-doctoral or equivalent experience in an area of theoretical physics relating to particle physics, gravity and cosmology, or quantum field theory and quantum gravity, with demonstrated potential for excellent teaching and a record of high research productivity. The appointee will be required to teach and co-ordinate undergraduate courses in physics, to teach post-graduate courses in theoretical physics, to contribute to teaching in other core areas as appropriate, and to supervise research students. Research interests in cosmology or astroparticle physics which complement existing interests in the theoretical physics group would be advantageous. The successful applicant should be able to inspire and motivate students and work within a collegial environment. The appointee will be expected to publish regularly in high-impact journals, to contribute to collaborative research, and to actively seek and obtain funding in support of research. The University of Canterbury offers generous leave provisions, support for attendance at international conferences, and superannuation benefits. It also has excellent childcare, recreation and staff club facilities on campus. Based in Christchurch, New Zealand, the University of Canterbury is known for its world class research, inspirational teaching, vibrant campus environment and diverse academic community. Located on the east coast of the South Island, Christchurch is a city of contrasts which embraces a cosmopolitan lifestyle and rich art and culture. Internationally famed “The Garden City”, Christchurch is the international gateway to the South Island and is a place where you are able to enjoy a healthy, active lifestyle amidst a natural environment world-renowned for its beauty. Located on a picturesque campus, the University offers an extensive range of services and facilities including library and art collections, child-care centres, health centre, recreation centre, pharmacy, book shop and cafés. You’ll have opportunities to work alongside members of a world class, diverse academic community and enrich your own professional and personal development. Enquiries of an academic nature may be made to Associate Professor David Wiltshire, at david.wiltshire[AT]canterbury.ac.nz . Further details about the Department of Physics and Astronomy can be found at http://www.phys.canterbury.ac.nz . To apply on-line see Position 1088 at http://www.canterbury.ac.nz/hr/job_vacancies.shtml +++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++ 2.4 Postdoctoral Position in Gravitational Physics at Washington University, St. Louis -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Announcement on Hyperspace@AEI: http://hyperspace.aei.mpg.de/2010/09/28/postdoctoral-position-in-gravitatio… Institution: St. Louis, MO, USA Deadline: Wed, Dec 15, 2010 Additional Information: http://physics.wustl.edu/cmw WUGRAV POSTDOCTORAL POSITION McDonnell Center for the Space Sciences Department of Physics Washington University, St. Louis A postdoctoral position will be available in the Gravitation Group WUGRAV of the McDonnell Center for the Space Sciences and the Department of Physics beginning in the fall of 2011. Applications are invited from theorists with research interests in the area of general relativity, with specific emphasis on theoretical aspects of gravitational radiation, post-Newtonian theory, strong-field tests of GR, or numerical relativity. The appointment is for one year, with renewal possible, subject to satisfactory performance and continued funding. The WUGRAV group consists of Professors Clifford Will and Wai-Mo Suen, research scientist Hui-Min Zhang, and three graduate students. The main foci of the group are the post-Newtonian study of inspiralling binary systems, issues in gravitational-wave data analysis, numerical simulations of coalescing and collapsing compact bodies, the interface between post-Newtonian theory and numerical relativity, and theoretical aspects of tests of GR. We have strong collaborations with the Institute of Astrophysics of Paris and the Chinese University of Hong Kong. Applications received before December 15, 2010 will receive full consideration. Applicants will also be considered for the prestigious Postdoctoral Fellowship of the McDonnell Center for the Space Sciences (http://mcss.wustl.edu/fellowships) Send curriculum vita, statement of research interests, and three letters of reference via email, to cmw[AT]wuphys.wustl.edu. If regular mail or FAX is the only means available, send to the Paris address below. Professor Clifford M. Will Institut d'Astrophysique 98 bis, Boulevard Arago 75014 Paris, France +33 1 44 32 80 01 +++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++ 2.5 Postdoctoral Research Associate in Numerical Relativity or Computational Astrophysics at the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Announcement on Hyperspace@AEI: http://hyperspace.aei.mpg.de/2010/09/27/postdoctoral-research-associate-in-… Institution: Urbana, IL, USA Deadline: Wed, Dec 01, 2010 Additional Information: https://my.physics.illinois.edu/join/ Postdoctoral Research Associate in Numerical Relativity or Computational Astrophysics University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign Applications are invited for a postdoctoral research associate position with Professor Stuart L. Shapiro. The candidate should have research experience in numerical relativity, computational hydrodynamics or computational MHD. A background in general relativity and relativistic astrophysics would be useful. Applicants should go online to: https://my.physics.illinois.edu/join/ and choose the appropriate job ad to submit their application, which must include a cover letter, curriculum vitae, list of publications, brief description of research interests, and the names, mailing and email addresses of three references. Please contact Linda Thorman (thorman[at]illinois.edu) if you have any questions. Applications should be posted by DEC 1, 2010 for full consideration. The starting date of the position is AUGUST 16, 2011, but earlier dates will be considered. The Illinois Gravity Group is developing the tools of numerical relativity, computational hydrodynamics and computational MHD to tackle diverse problems in general relativity and astrophysics. Recent topics include the inspiral and coalescence of binary compact objects (binary black holes (BHs), binary neutron stars (NSs), binary BH-NSs, and binary white dwarf-NSs); the generation of gravitational waves; magnetorotational stellar collapse; accretion onto BHs and binary BHs; and the formation and cosmological growth of supermassive BHs in galaxies and quasars. Some of our work is geared to identifying astrophysically plausible, strong-field sources of gravitational waves and calculating gravitational waveforms for detection by laser interferometers, such as LIGO and LISA. For such sources we are also exploring correlations between gravitational wave and electromagnetic signals, including UV and X-ray emission and gamma-ray bursts. The University of Illinois is an Affirmative Action/Equal Opportunity Employer. +++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++ 2.6 Postdoctoral VESF fellowship for Theoretical Gravitational-Wave Studies at Valencia --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Announcement on Hyperspace@AEI: http://hyperspace.aei.mpg.de/2010/09/20/postdoctoral-vesf-fellowship-for-th… Institution: Valencia, Spain Deadline: Tue, Mar 01, 2011 The relativistic astrophysics group at the Department of Astronomy and Astrophysics of the University of Valencia "UVEG" (http://www.uv.es/daa) is seeking applications from highly motivated and competitive candidates for one VESF-funded postdoctoral position for a duration of two years in the area of gravitational-wave astrophysics. The successful candidate is expected to conduct numerical simulations in general relativity in order to build an improved catalog of gravitational waveforms from neutron star mergers. The study will be carried out under the supervision of Prof. José A. Font. Work on this topic will be performed in close collaboration with Prof. Luciano Rezzolla at the Albert Einstein Institute (Germany). The UVEG group conducts research aimed at understanding the physics and dynamics of some of the most representative scenarios in the field of relativistic astrophysics, namely relativistic jets (in active galactic nuclei, or in progenitors of gamma-ray bursts), and compact stellar objects (neutron stars and black holes), as well as at analyzing the electromagnetic and gravitational radiation emitted from such sources. In order to achieve these goals the UVEG group strongly relies on multidimensional numerical magneto-hydrodynamical simulations in general relativity. Senior members of the UVEG relativistic astrophysics group are Miguel-Angel Aloy, Jose A. Font, Jose M. Ibañez and Jose M. Marti. The group also includes a number of research students and postdocs. The positions will become available in the next few weeks (deadline March 1st, 2011), the exact starting date being negotiable. Gross salary is 35.000 euros/year. Interested candidates please contact: Prof. Jose Antonio Font Departamento de Astronomia y Astrofisica Edificio de Investigacion Universidad de Valencia Dr. Moliner, 50 E-46100 Burjassot (Valencia), Spain Phone: +34-963-54-3074 Fax: +34-963-54-3084 mailto: j.antonio.font[AT]uv.es +++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++ 2.7 Postdoc position in early-universe, black-hole physics or quantum gravity at IISER-TVM ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------ Announcement on Hyperspace@AEI: http://hyperspace.aei.mpg.de/2010/09/17/post-doctoral-position-in-early-uni… Institution: Trivandrum, India Deadline: Sun, Oct 31, 2010 One postdoctoral position is available in the area of early-universe cosmology, black-hole physics or quantum gravity at the Indian Institute of Science Education and Research-Thiruvananthapuram. A Ph.D. degree and relevant research experience are required for this position. The position is available for a period of up to two years. Informal enquiries about the position can be made to S. Shankaranarayanan (shanki[AT]iisertvm.ac.in) The fellowship is awarded as part of the Ramanujan Fellowship under Department of Science and Technology, India. The selected candidate can take up the position by December, 2010. Salary: Rs. 2,64,000 – Rs. 2,88,000 per annum Deadline: 31 October 2010 To apply please send CV, and have at least two letters of reference sent by email to S. Shankaranarayanan (shanki[AT]iisertvm.ac.in) with the subject “Application for PDF position – Candidate name”. +++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++ 2.8 Senior and junior faculty positions in astroparticle physics at University of Amsterdam ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Announcement on Hyperspace@AEI: http://hyperspace.aei.mpg.de/2010/09/14/senior-and-junior-faculty-positions… Institution: Amsterdam, The Netherlands Deadline: Wed, Dec 01, 2010 Additional Information: http://www.uvaapp.nl The Faculty of Science of the University of Amsterdam has launched a major new initiative: GRAPPA - GRavitation and AstroParticle Physics in Amsterdam, and is hiring at least four new faculty for that initiative. GRAPPA is a collaboration between the Astronomical Institute Anton Pannekoek (API), the Institute for High-Energy Physics (IHEF) and the Institute for Theoretical Physics (ITFA). Each of these institutes already has a programme of research into the fundamental laws of physics using a variety of observational probes of the cosmos and theoretical developments inspitred by these. The intention of the programme is to provide a focused research centre in which these efforts are brought to an even higher level by interdisciplinary collaboration. Some further information on the programme may be found at http://www.uvaapp.nl . To jump-start the programme, we are searching at least four new faculty members in senior and junior ranks, tenured or tenure-track. A full professorship is available for an inspiring candidate with leadership qualities and a clear vision on how to make the initiative a world-leading programme in the field by joining the participating institutes' efforts into a coherent programme, as well as proven ability to teach and to attract substantial external research funding. Junior faculty positions are available to candidates with a proven record of interdisciplinary research in this field, an excellent publication record, and ability to teach inspiringly and attract external research funding. The subfields of research into which the candidates will be hired are not fixed; excellence of the candidates, interdisciplinary interests, and overlap and affinity with the existing work at the UvA will be used to select the candidates, in addition to the above criteria. Within the context of GRAPPA, we currently focus on the following areas of research: At API, GRAPPA researchers focus on the formation and properties of extreme matter and magnetic fields in strongly curved spacetime, near black holes and neutron stars, and the high-energy messengers emanating from them (X and gamma rays, cosmic rays, neutrinos, gravity waves, radio waves). We are involved in numerous major instrumental initiatives, such as LOFAR, CTA, and many current space instruments, and in theoretical studies of these issues. At IHEF, GRAPPA researchers focus on the study of cosmic neutrinos using the ANTARES and KM3NeT detectors, as well as on accelerator studies of physics beyond the standard model. At ITFA, GRAPPA researchers focus on fundamental aspects of quantum gravity and black-hole physics, and on studies of the physics of the early universe and its measurable impact on present-day observables. Further information is available at http://www.uvaapp.nl . Enquiries about the positions may be made with profs. Stan Bentvelsen (IHEF, stanb[AT]nikhef.nl), Jan de Boer (ITFA, j.deboer[AT]uva.nl), and Ralph Wijers (Ralph.Wijers[AT]uva.nl). Evaluation of the applications will start on December 1, 2010, and continue until the positions are filled. Applicants should send their CV, a research and teaching statement and three letters of reference, as well as the level of position they are applying for to itf[AT]science.uva.nl. +++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++ 2.9 Faculty Position in Computational Astrophysics and Cosmology at Georgia Tech -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Announcement on Hyperspace@AEI: http://hyperspace.aei.mpg.de/2010/09/07/faculty-position-in-computational-a… Institution: Atlanta, GA, USA Deadline: Tue, Nov 30, 2010 Additional Information: http://www.cra.gatech.edu As part of the ongoing expansion of the Center for Relativistic Astrophysics (http://www.cra.gatech.edu) the School of Physics of the Georgia Institute of Technology invites applications for a tenure-track faculty position at the junior or senior level in theoretical astrophysics and cosmology with emphasis on computation and simulation. All sub-fields will be considered, but we are particularly interested in candidates with a strong background in areas that complement and enhance our current efforts in gravitational wave physics, accretion astrophysics, galaxy and black hole evolution, numerical relativity and particle astrophysics. Applicants should email to astro.search [at] physics.gatech.edu the following documents in PDF format: 1) cover letter with names of references, 2) curriculum vitae including full list of publications and relevant teaching experience, 3) a research plan for the next five years, and 4) a statement of teaching philosophy and experience. In addition, applicants should arrange to have three letters of reference emailed separately to astro.search [at] physics.gatech.edu. Review of applications will begin November 30, 2010. +++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++ 2.10 Postdoctoral position in theoretical gravity at University of Tartu -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Announcement on Hyperspace@AEI: http://hyperspace.aei.mpg.de/2010/10/02/postdoctoral-position-in-theoretica… Institution: Tartu, Estonia Deadline: Mon, Oct 25, 2010 Additional Information: http://hexagon.fi.tartu.ee/ Estonian Science Foundation (ESF) runs two programs offering postdoc grants at Estonian research institutions: MOBILITAS (Researcher Mobility Programme) and ERMOS (Estonian Research Mobility Scheme), the latter is financed in conjunction with FP7 Marie Curie COFUND "People". The gravitation theory group at the Laboratory of Theoretical Physics, Institute of Physics, University of Tartu, Estonia is looking for a suitable postdoc candidate to apply for one of these grants, who would be able to contribute to or complement the ongoing research of the group. Key points General research area: theoretical aspects of gravity; Preferred topics: extensions of Einstein's general relativity (e.g. scalar-tensor gravity), theoretical cosmology beyond the concordance model (especially dark energy). Duration of the grant: 2 or 3 years. Amount of the grant: 19,200 EUR per year for salary (pre-tax), 3,200 EUR per year for research costs, and a one-time relocation allowance to move in to Estonia. Eligibility: The post-doctoral research grant can be applied for by a person who has been awarded a doctoral degree or an equivalent qualification not earlier than five years before the start of the grant. (In case that, after obtaining the degree, the applicant was on parental leave or in compulsory military service, the period of qualification is extended by the period of the parental leave or compulsory military service.) Application The deadlines for MOBILITAS applications are usually in October/November and March, and for ERMOS in April. NB! The postdoc application to ESF is submitted together by the applicant and the host institution. Therefore interested candidates are first invited to send a CV, a list of publications, a brief research proposal, and a letter of recommendation to Dr. Piret Kuusk (piret[AT]fi.tartu.ee), head of the gravitation theory group. The next round of MOBILITAS applications closes on 10 November 2010, but in order to have sufficient time to prepare the joint application to ESF, we expect the candidates to make contact by 25 October 2010 the latest. ================================================================= 3. News ================================================================= 3.1 Living Reviews in Relativity: Updated Articles -------------------------------------------------- Announcement on Hyperspace@AEI: http://hyperspace.aei.mpg.de/2010/09/27/living-reviews-in-relativity-update… Additional Information: http://relativity.livingreviews.org/ Living Reviews in Relativity has published a major update of the review "Brane-World Gravity" by Roy Maartens and Kazuya Koyama on 14 September 2010. The original article by Roy Maartens from 2004 ranks number 13 on SPIRES "Top Cited Articles of All Time (2009 edition) in gr-qc". Please, note also the revision of the review "Analytic Black Hole Perturbation Approach to Gravitational Radiation" by Misao Sasaki and Hideyuki Tagoshi. Find the further details on these revisions below. ------------------ PUB.NO. lrr-2010-5 Maartens, Roy and Koyama, Kazuya "Brane-World Gravity" ACCEPTED: 2010-09-06 PUBLISHED: 2010-09-14 FULL ARTICLE AT: http://www.livingreviews.org/lrr-2010-5 UPDATE: Inserted subsections on numerical solutions in Sections 6 and 7 and five figures. Added new Subsection 2.2 on the Randall–Sundrum model in string theory. Added new Section 9 on Dvali–Gabadadze–Porrati models and nine figures. Added new Section 10 on 6-dimensional models and one figure. Added about 100 new references. ------------------ PUB.NO. lrr-2003-6 Sasaki, Misao and Tagoshi, Hideyuki "Analytic Black Hole Perturbation Approach to Gravitational Radiation" ACCEPTED: 2010-08-24 PUBLISHED: 2010-09-14 FULL ARTICLE AT: http://www.livingreviews.org/lrr-2003-6 UPDATE: The main changes are new Sections 4.6, 5.3, 5.8, and 5.9, which show the progress since 2003. Added 46 new references. ------------------ UPCOMING ARTICLES AT: http://relativity.livingreviews.org/Articles/upcoming.html +++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++ 3.2 Highlights and Conclusions of the 14th Paris Cosmology Colloquium Chalonge 2010 ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Announcement on Hyperspace@AEI: http://hyperspace.aei.mpg.de/2010/09/22/highlights-and-conclusions-of-the-1… Additional Information: http://www.chalonge.obspm.fr/colloque2010.html Ecole Internationale d'Astrophysique Daniel Chalonge The 14th Paris Cosmology Colloquium Chalonge 2010 "The Standard Model of the Universe: Theory and Observations" Greetings from Paris. We are pleased to inform you that the Highlights and Conclusions of the Chalonge 14th Paris Cosmology Colloquium 2010 (54 pages, 19 figures) have appeared as http://arxiv.org/abs/1009.3494 and are also available (.ps printing format) on the web site of the Colloquium: http://www.chalonge.obspm.fr/colloque2010.html ----------------------------------------------------------------------- Abstract (Abridged) The Chalonge 14th Paris Cosmology Colloquium was held on 22-24 July 2010 in Paris Observatory on the Standard Model of the Universe: News from WMAP7, BICEP, QUAD, SPT, AMI, ACT, Planck, QUIJOTE and Herschel; dark matter (DM) searches and galactic observations; related theory and simulations; aiming synthesis, progress and clarification. P. Biermann, D. Boyanovsky, A. Cooray, C. Destri, H. de Vega, G. Gilmore, S. Gottlober, E. Komatsu, S. McGaugh, A. Lasenby, R. Rebolo, P. Salucci, N. Sanchez and A. Tikhonov present here their highlights of the Colloquium. Inflection points emerged: LambdaWDM (Warm DM) emerges impressively over LambdaCDM whose galactic scale problems are ever-increasing. Summary and conclusions by H. J. de Vega, M. C. Falvella and N. G. Sanchez stress among other points: (i) Primordial CMB gaussianity is confirmed. Inflation effective theory predicts a tensor to scalar ratio 0.05-0.04 at reach/border line of next CMB observations, early fast-roll inflation provides lowest multipoles depression. SZ amplitudes are smaller than expected: CMB and X-ray data agree but intracluster models need revision and relaxed/non-relaxed clusters distinction. (ii) cosmic ray positron excess is explained naturally by astrophysical processes, annihilating/decaying dark matter needs growing tailoring. (iii) Cored (non cusped) DM halos and warm (keV scale mass) DM are increasingly favored from theory and observations, naturally producing observed small scale structures, wimps turn strongly disfavoured. LambdaWDM 1 keV simulations well reproduce observations. Evidence that LambdaCDM does not work at small scales is staggering. P Biermann presents his live minutes of the Colloquium and concludes that a keV sterile neutrino is the most interesting DM candidate. Photos of the Colloquium are included. ----------------------------------------------------------------------- We thank all again, both lecturers and participants, for having contributed so much to this Colloquium and look forward to seeing you again in a next Meeting of this series. With Compliments and kind regards Norma G Sanchez, Hector J de Vega http://chalonge.obspm.fr

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[Hyperspace-list] Hyperspace Bulletin for September 2010
by hyperspace＠aei.mpg.de 02 Sep '10

02 Sep '10

################################################################# Table of Contents ################################################################# 1. Conferences 1.1 The Ins and Outs of Black Holes 1.2 Mario Novello Symposium On Bouncing Models 2. Jobs 2.1 Tenure track position in Mathematical/Theoretical Physics at Waterloo 2.2 Postdoctoral positions at Perimeter Institute 2.3 Joliot-Curie Fellowship for Women at Radboud University Nijmegen 2.4 CIFAR Junior Fellowship Cosmology and Gravity Program 3. News 3.1 Living Reviews in Relativity: "The Pioneer Anomaly" 3.2 Special Session at ERE2010 Dedicated to the Memory of Brian Edgar 3.3 Publishing papers with no author's approval ================================================================= 1. Conferences ================================================================= 1.1 The Ins and Outs of Black Holes ----------------------------------- Announcement on Hyperspace@AEI: http://hyperspace.aei.mpg.de/2010/08/22/the-ins-and-outs-of-black-holes/ Starting Mon, Nov 15, 2010 to Wed, Nov 17, 2010 Location: Annapolis, MD, U.S.A. Additional Information: http://www.mdjsi.org/ "The Ins and Outs of Black Holes" Annapolis, Maryland, USA November 15-17, 2010 The Joint Space Science Institute (JSI) -- consisting of astrophysicists and physicists from the University of Maryland and NASA's Goddard Space Flight Center -- is hosting a cross-cutting conference to examine the physics and astrophysics of energy flows in and around black holes. We plan to bring together 80-100 scientists from around the world to discuss observations, phenomenology, fundamental theory and how they all fit together. Sessions will be organized around broad questions: * What are the observations that we need to explain? * How is plasma physics important for understanding accretion? * What interesting particle physics takes place near black holes? * How does black hole spin modulate the nature of the emitted energy? * What can observations of black holes tell us about the theory of gravity? * What can we learn from emissions from merging black holes? Confirmed invited Speakers: Nahum Arav (Virginia Tech) Steven Balbus (ENS-Paris) Roger Blandford (KIRPAC/Stanford) Tamara Bogdanovic (Maryland) Andrew Fabian (Cambridge) Ted Jacobson (Maryland) Julian Krolik (Johns Hopkins) Kristen Menou (Columbia) Richard Mushotzky (Maryland) Angela Olinto (Chicago) Tsvi Piran (Hebrew U. of Jerusalem) Guenter Sigl (Hamburg) Nico Yunes (Princeton) VENUE: The conference will be held at the Loews Annapolis Hotel, located less than half a mile from the Maryland State House in the historic capital city of Maryland, and within easy walking distance of the waterfront and restaurant district. Annapolis is easily accessible from Baltimore-Washington International Airport (BWI), Reagan National Airport and Dulles International Airport. REGISTRATION: Registration will open in early September and will be on a first-come first-serve basis. Registration will be accessible via http://www.mdjsi.org . We encourage you to register early. FURTHER INFORMATION: To sign up for further email announcements, or if you have any other queries about this meeting, please email Chris Reynolds (chris[at]astro.umd.edu) or Peter Shawhan (pshawhan[at]umd.edu) For further information, please go to http://www.mdjsi.org . ORGANIZING COMMITTEE: Alessandra Buonanno Jean Cottam Bill Dorland Jordan Goodman Richard Mushotzky Chris Reynolds (co-Chair) Peter Shawhan (Chair) +++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++ 1.2 Mario Novello Symposium On Bouncing Models ---------------------------------------------- Announcement on Hyperspace@AEI: http://hyperspace.aei.mpg.de/2010/08/19/symposium-mario-novello-on-bouncing… Starting Fri, Nov 26, 2010 to Tue, Nov 30, 2010 Location: Rio de Janeiro, Brazil Additional Information: http://www.cbpf.br/~smnbm/ The "Mario Novello Symposium on Bouncing Models" is to honor the decades of long work of M. Novello to promote cosmology in Brazil and develop numerous interactions with other countries, and for his emphasis, for many years, on bouncing models that culminated in 2008 with an exhaustive report on the subject. All aspects of this subject, from the high energy theory implementation to the observational consequences, will be covered. The Symposium on bouncing cosmological models will be held in the state of Rio de Janeiro, in the charming beach Resort of Portobello, Mangaratiba, 100 km away from Rio de Janeiro. ================================================================= 2. Jobs ================================================================= 2.1 Tenure track position in Mathematical/Theoretical Physics at Waterloo ------------------------------------------------------------------------- Announcement on Hyperspace@AEI: http://hyperspace.aei.mpg.de/2010/08/29/tenure-track-position-in-mathematic… Institution: Waterloo, ON, Canada Deadline: Mon, Jan 10, 2011 Additional Information: http://www.math.uwaterloo.ca/~akempf/facultyposition.pdf Tenure track position in Mathematical/Theoretical Physics Applications are invited for a tenure-track faculty position in the Department of Applied Mathematics at the University of Waterloo, in the field of Mathematical/Theoretical Physics, to begin on or after July 1, 2011. The deadline for receiving applications, including three letters of reference, is January 10, 2011. Apply via email to am-positions AT math.uwaterloo.ca with “MPposition” in the subject line. We are particularly interested in applicants with expertise in the areas of gravity, quantum gravity or cosmology. The successful applicant may be considered for an Associate Membership at the independent Perimeter Institute for Theoretical Physics and/or the Institute for Quantum Computing at the University of Waterloo. For full details, see the official ad here: http://www.math.uwaterloo.ca/~akempf/facultyposition.pdf +++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++ 2.2 Postdoctoral positions at Perimeter Institute ------------------------------------------------- Announcement on Hyperspace@AEI: http://hyperspace.aei.mpg.de/2010/08/12/postdoctoral-positions-at-the-perim… Institution: Waterloo, ON, Canada Deadline: Mon, Nov 15, 2010 Additional Information: http://www.perimeterinstitute.ca/Scientific/Applications/Postdoctoral_Resea… Perimeter Institute for Theoretical Physics invites applications for postdoctoral positions from new and recent PhD’s working in fundamental theoretical physics. Our areas of strength include quantum gravity, string theory, quantum information, cosmology, quantum foundations, particle physics and condensed matter theory. We also encourage applications from scientists whose work overlaps these categories or falls in more than one of them. Our postdoctoral positions are normally for a period of three years. Outstanding candidates may also be considered for a senior postdoctoral position with a five-year term. Further details on this opportunity, online application instructions and Perimeter Institute, can be found at: http://www.perimeterinstitute.ca/postdoctoralresearcher. Please note that to be considered for this position, you must apply online. We welcome all candidates to apply by November 15th, 2010, but applications will be considered until all positions are filled. PI may also nominate exceptional candidates for a Banting Fellowship, sponsored by the Government of Canada. Applicants who may be interested in this opportunity are requested to have their application materials and references submitted by October 15th, 2010. Perimeter Institute offers a dynamic, multi-disciplinary environment with maximum research freedom and opportunity to collaborate within and across fields. Our postdoctoral positions are intended for highly original and intellectually independent young theorists and offer exceptional support including a generous research and travel fund, opportunities to invite their own collaborators as visitors, and the possibility of organizing workshops and conferences. Perimeter Institute is located west of Toronto, in Waterloo, Canada and opened in September 2001 as an independent Institute supporting research in foundational areas of theoretical physics. The Institute offers an exceptional research environment and is currently staffed with 25 full-time and part-time faculty members, 20 Distinguished Research Chairs, 45 Postdoctoral Researchers, 25 Graduate Students, 31 exceptional masters-level students participating in Perimeter Scholars International, and hosts hundreds of visitors and conference participants throughout the academic year. Perimeter Institute is an equal opportunity employer. All qualified candidates are encouraged to apply; however Canadian citizens and Permanent Residents will be given priority. +++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++ 2.3 Joliot-Curie Fellowship for Women at Radboud University Nijmegen -------------------------------------------------------------------- Announcement on Hyperspace@AEI: http://hyperspace.aei.mpg.de/2010/08/03/joliot-curie-fellowship-for-women-a… Institution: Nijmegen, The Netherlands Deadline: Wed, Sep 15, 2010 Additional Information: http://www.ru.nl/vacatures/details/details_vacature_0?recid=500121 The Faculty of Science at the Radboud University Nijmegen (Netherlands) is pleased to offer several tenure track fellowships to talented young women with outstanding potential in the field of chemistry, physics, and astronomy. The Joliot-Curie fellowships are available in three of the faculty’s prestigious research institutes. This highly interdisciplinary and collaborative environment offers exceptional research opportunities to independent, motivated and gifted female scientists. Requirements You are encouraged to launch your own independent research program at one of the faculty's research institutes. You are expected to publish in high-profile journals, attract your own external funding and contribute to the teaching programs. Organization The Faculty of Science has three interdisciplinary research institutes with fellowship opportunities in the field of chemistry, physics, and astronomy: Institute for Molecules and Materials (IMM): conducts excellent interdisciplinary research in the field of chemistry and physics and offers a strong interplay between experimental and theoretical research groups. IMM and the Nijmegen Centre for Molecular Life Sciences aim to further strengthen their leading activities at the interface of chemistry and biology.IMM also has several unique research facilities, including the High-Field Magnet Laboratory, NanoLab, Free Electron Lasers, and a Nuclear Magnetic Resonance laboratory. Fellowships are available in the field of chemical biology and advanced spectroscopy of molecules and materials. Institute for Mathematics, Astronomy, and Particle Physics (IMAPP): centers around the theme of the origin of the universe. The particle physics group – member of Nikhef – has a vigorous theory program and participates in experiments at CERN and Fermilab. The astronomy group is active in the area of compact binaries, radio astronomy and, jointly with the particle physics group, the area of gravitational waves and cosmic ray physics. Fellowships are available in the field of mathematical physics, particle physics or astroparticle physics. Donders Centre for Neuroscience (DCN): studies the human and animal brain with a broad repertoire of experimental techniques and informatics tools. The research is conducted on different levels: from genetic, molecular, neuronal cells to behavior. Fellowships are available in the field of new molecular imaging techniques in neuronal systems. Website: http://nobelprize.org/nobel_prizes/chemistry/laureates/1935/joliot-curie-bi… Conditions of employment Employment: 0,8 - 1,0 fte Maximum salary per month, based on a fulltime employment: € 5,920 gross/month Starting salary depends on experience. Salary scale: 14 Additional conditions of employment You will be appointed as assistant professor (UD) for up to five years and will be offered a permanent position as assistant or associate professor (UHD) depending a successful evaluation. The evaluation will be based on a set of objective criteria. The university also welcomes applications from women with a more senior profile and is happy to offer them a customized tenure track. A full professorship is possible depending on the fellow’s long-term performance. Other Information Your application should include a cover letter, a research and teaching statement, CV, three referents and a list of publications. Suggestons for suiteble candidates are also welcomed. Additional Information Dr. Iwan Holleman, Managing Director IMM Telephone: +31 24 3653189 E-mail: i.holleman[at]science.ru.nl Application You can apply for the job (mention the vacancy number 62.51.10) before 15 September 2010 by sending your application – preferably by email – to: RU Nijmegen, FNWI, P&O, Ms. Astrid Schröder P.O Box 9010, 6500 GL Nijmegen Telephone: +31 24 3652764 E-mail: pz[at]science.ru.nl +++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++ 2.4 CIFAR Junior Fellowship Cosmology and Gravity Program ---------------------------------------------------------- Announcement on Hyperspace@AEI: http://hyperspace.aei.mpg.de/2010/08/02/cifar-junior-fellowship-cosmology-a… Institution: Canada Additional Information: http://www2.cifar.ca/media/files/C%26G%20Junior%20Fellow%20Ad%20%2D%20June%… The Junior Fellow Academy of the Canadian Institute for Advanced Research is an elite fellowship program designed to build research and leadership capacity in gifted young scholars at a critical early stage of career development. The Academy provides unique opportunities for personal and professional growth through close collaboration with and mentorship from some of the best researchers in Canada and around the world. CIFAR’s Cosmology and Gravity Program is seeking outstanding postdoctoral researchers to fill two Junior Fellowship positions: the first beginning in January 2011 and the second in July 2011. The Junior Fellowship will be held in conjunction with a university postdoctoral appointment under the supervision of one or more program Fellows or Scholars. The position is tenable at any of the Canadian institutions where members of the Cosmology and Gravity Program are based. ================================================================= 3. News ================================================================= 3.1 Living Reviews in Relativity: "The Pioneer Anomaly" ------------------------------------------------------- Announcement on Hyperspace@AEI: http://hyperspace.aei.mpg.de/2010/08/31/living-reviews-in-relativity-the-pi… Additional Information: http://www.livingreviews.org/lrr-2010-4 Living Reviews in Relativity has published a new review article on "The Pioneer Anomaly" by Slava G. Turyshev and Viktor T. Toth on September 1, 2010. Please find the abstract and further details below. ------------------ PUB.NO. lrr-2010-4 Turyshev, Slava and Toth, Viktor T. "The Pioneer Anomaly" ACCEPTED: 2010-07-16 PUBLISHED: 2010-09-01 FULL ARTICLE AT: http://www.livingreviews.org/lrr-2010-4 ABSTRACT: Radio-metric Doppler tracking data received from the Pioneer 10 and 11 spacecraft from heliocentric distances of 20-70 AU has consistently indicated the presence of a small, anomalous, blue-shifted frequency drift uniformly changing with a rate of $\sim 6\times 10^{-9}$ Hz/s. Ultimately, the drift was interpreted as a constant sunward deceleration of each particular spacecraft at the level of $a_P = (8.74 \pm 1.33)\times 10^{-10}$ m/s$^2$. This apparent violation of the Newton's gravitational inverse square law has become known as the Pioneer anomaly; the nature of this anomaly remains unexplained. In this review, we summarize the current knowledge of the physical properties of the anomaly and the conditions that led to its detection and characterization. We review various mechanisms proposed to explain the anomaly and discuss the current state of efforts to determine its nature. A comprehensive new investigation of the anomalous behavior of the two Pioneers has begun recen tly. The new efforts rely on the much-extended set of radio-metric Doppler data for both spacecraft in conjunction with the newly available complete record of their telemetry files and a large archive of original project documentation. As the new study is yet to report its findings, this review provides the necessary background for the new results to appear in the near future. In particular, we provide a significant amount of information on the design, operations and behavior of the two Pioneers during their entire missions, including descriptions of various data formats and techniques used for their navigation and radio-science data analysis. As most of this information was recovered relatively recently, it was not used in the previous studies of the Pioneer anomaly, but it is critical for the new investigation. UPCOMING ARTICLES AT: http://relativity.livingreviews.org/Articles/upcoming.html +++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++ 3.2 Special Session at ERE2010 Dedicated to the Memory of Brian Edgar --------------------------------------------------------------------- Announcement on Hyperspace@AEI: http://hyperspace.aei.mpg.de/2010/08/23/special-session-at-ere2010-dedicate… Additional Information: http://www.iaa.es/ere2010/website/modules/tinyd0/ On the afternoon of Thursday 9th September a special session of talks will be held at the Spanish Relativity Meeting (ERE2010) to honour the memory of S. Brian Edgar who died on 10th June 2010. The ERE2010 meeting will be held at the Instituto de Astrofísica de Andalucía (IAA-CSIC) in Granada, Spain from 6th-10th September 2010. Brian was a frequent attendee at the ERE meetings in recent years and shared fruitful collaborations with several groups in Iberia and indeed world-wide. Brian was a dedicated teacher and supervisor and a very able and productive researcher. However to many of us, Brian was more than just a colleague, but rather a dear friend. Further details of the programme may be found on the ERE2010 web-site: http://www.iaa.es/ere2010/website/modules/tinyd0/index.php?id=22 On hyperspace@aei there is an obituary (http://hyperspace.aei.mpg.de/2010/06/15/death-of-brian-edgar/) written mainly by Marcos Maia, who was a PhD student together with Brian at King's college in London, with input from others, and on MAI an obituary (http://www.phys.umu.se/bradley/GRSweden/maiobituary.pdf) written by his colleagues at the Department of Mathematics at Linköping University. +++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++ 3.3 Publishing papers with no author's approval ----------------------------------------------- Announcement on Hyperspace@AEI: http://hyperspace.aei.mpg.de/2010/08/17/publishing-papers-with-no-authors-a… Dear hyperspace@aei Users! I want inform you about interesting event I have met recently. Namely, I noticed that one of my arXiv's contributions to gr-qc titled "On quantum cosmology as field theory of bosonic string mass groundstate" has been published as "On quantum cosmology as field theory of bononic string mass groundstate" (i.e. with mispronounced word bosonic) in the journal International Journal of Physics by International Sciences Press within Serial Publications, see the webpage http://www.serialspublications.com/contentnormal.asp?jid=501&jtype=1 I have submitted the appropriate info (with the link cited above) to arXiv, and SPIRES also accepted this information. After this I sent email to the Editor in Chief M. Agop affiliated to Department of Physics, Technical University “Gh. Asachi” Iasi 700050, Romania with my question about the publication procedures of the journal. My doubts were serious, because I did not sent my paper to the journal, as well as I did not give my approval for publication of the manuscript. Moreover, I suppose there was not applied peer-review, because the paper consists few minor mistakes. I have not obtained any reply from the Editor in Chief, however, I have noticed today that the paper has been withdrawn from the journal. Really, I do not know what one should do in this type of situations. I do not wish to suggest manifestly the opinion about the journal and its Editors. Best regards, L. Glinka

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[Hyperspace-list] Hyperspace Bulletin for August 2010
by hyperspace＠aei.mpg.de 02 Aug '10

02 Aug '10

################################################################# Table of Contents ################################################################# 1. Conferences 1.1 Colombo-Venezuelan Meeting in Relativity, Fields and Gravitation 1.2 Multimessenger Emissions from Sources of Gravitational Waves 1.3 20th Midwest Relativity Meeting at Guelph 1.4 Mathematical Relativity Workshop at Edinburgh 2. Jobs 2.1 Tenure track University Assistant in Physics at Vienna 2.2 Postdoc positions in Gravitational-Wave Physics at Birmingham 2.3 Postdoctoral Research Fellow in Cosmology at Oslo 3. News 3.1 Highlights and Conclusions of the Chalonge CIAS Meudon Workshop Dark Matter in the Universe 2010 3.2 Presentations of 14th Paris Cosmology Colloquium Chalonge 2010 3.3 Travel Grants for Chandra Centennial Symposium 3.4 2010 IOP Gravitational Physics Group Thesis Prize ================================================================= 1. Conferences ================================================================= 1.1 Colombo-Venezuelan Meeting in Relativity, Fields and Gravitation --------------------------------------------------------------------- Announcement on Hyperspace@AEI: http://hyperspace.aei.mpg.de/2010/07/31/colombo-venezuelan-meeting-in-relat… Starting Wed, Dec 01, 2010 to Fri, Dec 03, 2010 Location: San Gil, Santander Colombia Additional Information: http://eventos.saber.ula.ve/rcvr2010 The 3rd Colombo-Venezuelan Meeting in Relativity, Fields and Gravitation is looking to be a latinamerican forum for researchers, advanced undergraduate and graduate students to share/discuss ideas in Gravitational and Field Physics. This meeting is the continuation of the Colombian-Venezuelan effort for academic cooperation in Science and Technology. It is organized by the Universidad Industrial de Santander, Universidad del Valle (Colombia) and Universidad de Los Andes (Venezuela). This meeting is a joint effort between research groups in two brother countries to strengthen joint research and academic exchanges that are so important and necessary for the growth of our collective intellectual heritage. Nowadays it becomes more important facing the intolerance of governments and showing the reality of a population with no border, working together, exchanging ideas, projects, researchers and students to get mutual benefit. This short event will have three workshops (3h) by the invited speakers, three invited lectures (1h), short presentations (20 minutes), a poster session and a plenary to discuss the future of the Colombo-Venezuelan Network Relativity and Gravitation IMPORTANT DATES: - 20th of September: Deadline for Abstract Submision. - 30th of September: Deadline for Conference Registration + Payment of Registration Fee Information regarding registration, abstract submission, accommodation and travel issues will be posted soon at the web page of the conference http://eventos.saber.ula.ve/rcvr2010 +++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++ 1.2 Multimessenger Emissions from Sources of Gravitational Waves ----------------------------------------------------------------- Announcement on Hyperspace@AEI: http://hyperspace.aei.mpg.de/2010/07/23/multimessenger-emissions-from-sourc… Starting Mon, Nov 29, 2010 to Fri, Dec 03, 2010 Location: Sao Sebastiao, Brazil Additional Information: http://hostel.ufabc.edu.br/~cecilia.chirenti/mesgw/index.html The workshop Multimessenger Emissions from Sources of Gravitational Waves will take place from November 29th to December 3rd 2010, and it will be held at the Maresias Beach Hotel in Sao Sebastiao, Brazil. The objective of this 5-day workshop is to discuss the state of the art of different aspects of gravitational wave emission, including EM counterparts, supernovae and neutrino emission, different astrophysical sources, numerical simulations, analytical methods and data analysis. The workshop is partly motivated by the 2010-2011 German-Brazilian Year of Science, Technology and Innovation. Both countries have an active interest in the study of gravitational waves, both in the theoretical and observational aspects, and are currently developing gravitational-wave detectors: the Mario Schenberg detector in Brazil, and the GEO600 in Germany. Local Organizing Committee: Elcio Abdalla (USP), Odylio Aguiar (INPE), Cecilia Chirenti (UFABC), Rodrigo Macedo (USP/AEI), Alberto Saa (UNICAMP), Vilson Zanchin (UFABC). Scientific Advisory Board: Hans-Thomas Janka, Kostas Kokkotas, Badri Krishnan, Cole Miller, Luciano Rezzolla, Stephen Rosswog, B.S. Sathyaprakash, Gerhard Schaefer, Bernard Schutz, Anna Watts. Confirmed invited speakers so far: Lee Lindblom, Joan Centrella, Zoltan Haiman, Stefanie Komossa, Kostas Kokkotas, Luciano Rezzolla, B.S. Sathyaprakash, Vitor Cardoso, Elcio Abdalla. Registration is now open until November 1st, and we encourage the participants to present contributions in the form of short talks or posters. Limited financial support is available. +++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++ 1.3 20th Midwest Relativity Meeting at Guelph --------------------------------------------- Announcement on Hyperspace@AEI: http://hyperspace.aei.mpg.de/2010/07/19/20th-midwest-relativity-meeting-at-… Starting Fri, Nov 05, 2010 to Sat, Nov 06, 2010 Location: Guelph, ON, Canada Additional Information: http://www.physics.uoguelph.ca/poisson/midwest/ This is an informal meeting that gathers researchers in general relativity and gravitation who work in or near the United States midwest. The format of the meeting will be as in past Midwest Relativity Meetings. Each participant may present a talk of approximately 15 minutes, depending on the total number of talks. Registration and abstract submission will open on 13 September 2010 and close on 15 October 2010. Abstracts submitted after this date may still be considered, but no guarantee can be given. Undergraduates, graduate students and post-doctoral follows are especially encouraged to make presentations. +++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++ 1.4 Mathematical Relativity Workshop at Edinburgh ------------------------------------------------- Announcement on Hyperspace@AEI: http://hyperspace.aei.mpg.de/2010/07/12/mathematical-relativity-workshop-at… Starting Wed, Sep 01, 2010 to Tue, Sep 07, 2010 Location: Edinburgh, Scotland Additional Information: http://www.icms.org.uk/workshops/relativity A workshop on Mathematical Relativity will take place on Sep 1, 2010 - Sep 7, 2010 at the James Clerk Maxwell Building (JCMB), King's Buildings, University of Edinburgh. The focus of interest of the workshop is on recent developments in the understanding of the mathematical structure of general relativity, with an emphasis on global properties of solutions of Einstein equations. Further information can be found on http://www.icms.org.uk/workshops/relativity There is no conference fee. Non-invited participants are welcome to attend, after letting one of the undersigned know about the intended participation, and making their own housing arrangements. Pieter Blue, Piotr Chrusciel, Paul Tod ================================================================= 2. Jobs ================================================================= 2.1 Tenure track University Assistant in Physics at Vienna ---------------------------------------------------------- Announcement on Hyperspace@AEI: http://hyperspace.aei.mpg.de/2010/07/08/tenure-track-university-assistant-i… Institution: Vienna, Austria Deadline: Fri, Sep 10, 2010 Additional Information: http://personalwesen.univie.ac.at/en/for-applicants/tenure-tracks/faculty-o… The Rectorate of the University of Vienna invites applications for a tenure-track position of University Assistant (UniversitätsassistentIn) at the Faculty of Physics. The position is expected to be filled by March 1st, 2011, and the deadline for applications is September 10, 2010. Applications should be done online at http://jobcenter.univie.ac.at Position Reference No: 1368 Successful candidates will have an outstanding research record or show exceptional promise in any of the research areas of the Faculty of Physics, which include Gravitational Physics. Prerequisites for application: a. PhD and a minimum of 2 years of post-doc experience b. Scientific publications relevant to the field c. Teaching experience or teaching concept See also http://personalwesen.univie.ac.at/en/for-applicants/tenure-tracks/faculty-o… More information can be obtained from Gabriele Marzoner of the Dean's office: dekanat.physik[AT]univie.ac.at +++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++ 2.2 Postdoc positions in Gravitational-Wave Physics at Birmingham ----------------------------------------------------------------- Announcement on Hyperspace@AEI: http://hyperspace.aei.mpg.de/2010/07/07/postdoc-positions-in-gravitational-… Institution: Birmingham, UK Deadline: Fri, Aug 20, 2010 Additional Information: http://www.sr.bham.ac.uk/gravity/ The Gravitational-Wave Group at the University of Birmingham invites applications for two post-doctoral positions. One position is to support research in advanced interferometry for future gravitational wave detectors. The second position is in the area LIGO/GEO/Virgo data analysis, with emphasis on compact object binary systems. The positions are available from 1st September 2010 until 31st March 2013, and can be extended by a further year subject to available funding. The starting salary is in the range of GBP 27,319 to 35,646 a year, with potential progression to £37,839 a year. The Birmingham Gravitational-wave Group currently consists of faculty members Mike Cruise, Andreas Freise and Alberto Vecchio, two postdoctoral research assistants and five post-graduate students. The group has a broad range of research interests including gravitational-wave advanced interferometer research and gravitational-wave data analysis. The group is member of the GEO Collaboration, the LIGO Scientific Collaboration, and has roles in the LISA International Science Team, GEO-HF (the upgrade of GEO 600) and the Einstein gravitational-wave Telescope. Project grants support activities in Advanced LIGO, the Einstein gravitational-wave Telescope, and LISA-Pathfinder. The group has excellent laboratory and computer facilities. For full consideration, candidates must submit an electronic application online at www.hr.bham.ac.uk/jobs (please quote ref 35882 for advanced interferometry and ref 43560 for data analysis). In addition, candidates are requested to submit a curriculum vita, list of publications, statement of research interests to: Mrs Annette Jenkins School of Physics and Astronomy University of Birmingham Edgbaston B15 2TT United Kingdom Email: a.jenkins[at]bham.ac.uk and to arrange for three letters of reference to be sent to the same address. The deadline for application is 20th August 2010. For further information and informal enquiries please contact: Dr. Alberto Vecchio (av[at]star.sr.bham.ac.uk) or Dr. Andreas Freise (adf[at]star.sr.bham.ac.uk). +++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++ 2.3 Postdoctoral Research Fellow in Cosmology at Oslo ----------------------------------------------------- Announcement on Hyperspace@AEI: http://hyperspace.aei.mpg.de/2010/07/02/postdoctoral-research-fellow-in-cos… Institution: Oslo, Norway Deadline: Fri, Oct 01, 2010 Additional Information: http://uio.easycruit.com/vacancy/430138/64278?iso=gb A postdoctoral fellowship in cosmology is open at the Institute of Theoretical Astrophysics of the University of Oslo. The fellowship period is 3 years. The position is available from 1st January, 2011 but can also be started later in 2011. Closing date for applications: 1 October, 2010. Salary: NOK 448.200 – 510.000 depending on qualifications and seniority Applications should be done electronically: http://uio.easycruit.com/vacancy/430138/64278?iso=gb Description: The Faculty of Mathematics and Natural Sciences has appointed the cosmology group of the Institute as an emerging top-tier research group. The participation in the European Space Agency’s flagship mission PLANCK and the ground based CMB polarization experiment QUIET, and a strong effort in fundamental cosmological theory, act as two foci for consolidating the group and developing it further to become one of Norway’s internationally most visible research groups in the physical sciences. The position is connected to the project ”Cosmological Probes of Modified Gravity”, funded by the Research Council of Norway. The successful applicant is expected to carry out research on cosmological structure formation within theories of gravity beyond General Relativity. The research will focus on both the linear and nonlinear regime of structure formation in the framework of scalar-tensor theories, vector-tensor theories and brane world models. It may involve testing these alternatives to dark energy using N-body simulations and/or lensing and/or the CMB and matter power spectra among others. ================================================================= 3. News ================================================================= 3.1 Highlights and Conclusions of the Chalonge CIAS Meudon Workshop Dark Matter in the Universe 2010 ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Announcement on Hyperspace@AEI: http://hyperspace.aei.mpg.de/2010/07/29/highlights-and-conclusions-of-the-c… Additional Information: http://www.chalonge.obspm.fr/Cias_Meudon2010.html Ecole Internationale d'Astrophysique Daniel Chalonge Workshop CIAS Meudon 2010 "Dark Matter in the Universe and Universal Properties of Galaxies: Theory and Observation" HIGHLIGHTS AND CONCLUSIONS OF THE WORKSHOP Greetings from Paris. We are pleased to inform you that the Highlights and Conclusions of the Chalonge CIAS Meudon Workshop Dark Matter in the Universe 2010 (41 pages, 10 figures, 3 photos) have appeared as http://arxiv.org/abs/1007.2411 and are also available (.pdf format) on the web site of this Workshop: http://www.chalonge.obspm.fr/Cias_Meudon2010.html --------------------------------------------------------------------- Abstract: The Workshop approached DM in a fourfold way: astronomical observations of DM structures (galaxy properties, halos, rotation curves and density profiles), DM numerical simulations (with and without baryons), theoretical astrophysics and cosmology (kinetic theory, Boltzmann-Vlasov evolution), astroparticle physics. Peter Biermann, Alfonso Cavaliere, Hector J. de Vega, Gianfranco Gentile, Chandra Jog, Andrea Lapi, Paolo Salucci, Norma G. Sanchez, Pasquale Serpico, Rainer Stiele, Janine van Eymeren and Markus Weber present here their highlights of the Workshop. The summary and conclusions by H. J. de Vega and N. G. Sanchez stress among other points the growing evidence that DM particles have a mass in the keV scale and that those keV scale particles naturally produce the small scale structures observed in galaxies. Wimps (DM particles heavier than 1 GeV) are strongly disfavoured combining theory with galaxy astronomical observations. Peter Biermann presents his live minutes of the Workshop and concludes that a right-handed sterile neutrino of mass of a few keV is the most interesting DM candidate. Photos of the Workshop are included. --------------------------------------------------------------------- We thank all again, both lecturers and participants, for having contributed so much to this Workshop and look forward to seeing you again in a next Meeting of this series. With Compliments and kind regards Norma G Sanchez, Hector J de Vega http://chalonge.obspm.fr +++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++ 3.2 Presentations of 14th Paris Cosmology Colloquium Chalonge 2010 ------------------------------------------------------------------ Announcement on Hyperspace@AEI: http://hyperspace.aei.mpg.de/2010/07/28/presentations-of-14th-paris-cosmolo… Additional Information: http://www.chalonge.obspm.fr/colloque2010.html Ecole Internationale d'Astrophysique Daniel Chalonge The 14th Paris Cosmology Colloquium Chalonge 2010 "The Standard Model of the Universe: Theory and Observations" We are pleased to inform you that the presentations by the lecturers during the 14th Paris Cosmology Colloquium Chalonge 2010 are available on-line (in pdf format) in "Programme and Lecturers" at the web site of this Colloquium: http://www.chalonge.obspm.fr/colloque2010.html http://www.chalonge.obspm.fr/Programme_Paris2010.html The photographs of the Colloquium capturing moments of the stimulating and outstanding atmosphere created by all lecturers and participants during the Colloquium will be posted soon in this site. We thank all again, both lecturers and participants, for having contributed so much to this Colloquium and look forward to seeing you again in a next Meeting of this series. With Compliments and kind regards Norma G Sanchez, Hector J de Vega http://chalonge.obspm.fr +++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++ 3.3 Travel Grants for Chandra Centennial Symposium -------------------------------------------------- Announcement on Hyperspace@AEI: http://hyperspace.aei.mpg.de/2010/07/15/travel-grants-for-chandra-centennia… Additional Information: http://chandra100.uchicago.edu As previously announced, a Symposium marking the 100th anniversary of the birth of S. Chandrasekhar will be held on the University of Chicago campus, October 15-17, 2010. The Symposium has now received a small amount of funding from the NSF to pay the travel costs of junior participants (assistant professors, postdocs, and graduate students) who are U.S. scientists. Applications and instructions can be found by going to the Chandra Symposium website (chandra100.uchicago.edu) and clicking on the "Travel" tab. The application deadline is September 1, 2010. +++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++ 3.4 2010 IOP Gravitational Physics Group Thesis Prize ----------------------------------------------------- Announcement on Hyperspace@AEI: http://hyperspace.aei.mpg.de/2010/07/06/2010-iop-gravitational-physics-grou… Additional Information: http://gp.iop.org/ The 2010 Gravitational Physics Group Thesis Prize will be made for excellence in postgraduate research and communication skills in gravitational physics. All members of the IOP Gravitational Physics Group who passed their PhD viva voce exam between 30 September 2008 and 1 October 2009 are entitled to enter the competition, and the winner will receive £250. The closing date for nominations is 31 October 2010. Please note that anyone (student or otherwise) can nominate a candidate (including the candidate themselves). Furthermore, please note that the student's external PhD examiner must be willing to comment on the student's research, quality of the student's thesis and the student's ability to cogently communicate their work (evidenced by their viva performance and/or seminars). Students are advised to consult their external examiner before entering the competition. For further information please click on the "Group prize" link on the web page http://gp.iop.org/, and click on "Details of the 2010 Gravitational Physics Group Thesis Prize" at the top of the page.

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[Hyperspace-list] Hyperspace Bulletin for July 2010
by hyperspace＠aei.mpg.de 02 Jul '10

02 Jul '10

################################################################# Table of Contents ################################################################# 1. Conferences 1.1 MG13: Thirteenth Marcel Grossmann Meeting 1.2 2nd Galileo-Xu Guangqi Meeting (final program) 1.3 XIVth Brazilian School of Cosmology and Gravitation (second announcement) 2. Jobs 2.1 Postdoc position in mathematical and/or numerical relativity at the University of Vienna 3. News 3.1 Einstein Toolkit Release 3.2 Presentations of Workshop CIAS Meudon 2010 "Dark Matter in the Universe and Universal Properties of Galaxies: Theory and Observations" 3.3 Death of Brian Edgar ================================================================= 1. Conferences ================================================================= 1.1 MG13: Thirteenth Marcel Grossmann Meeting --------------------------------------------- Announcement on Hyperspace@AEI: http://hyperspace.aei.mpg.de/2010/06/30/mg13-thirteenth-marcel-grossmann-me… Starting Sun, Jul 01, 2012 to Sat, Jul 07, 2012 Location: Stockholm, Sweden Additional Information: http://www.icra.it/MG/ The International Organizing Committee chaired by Remo Ruffini, the International Coordinating Committee chaired by Robert Jantzen, and the Local Organizing Committee chaired by Kjell Rosquist are pleased to announce the Thirteenth Marcel Grossmann Meeting on Recent Developments in Theoretical and Experimental General Relativity, Gravitation, and Relativistic Field Theory at the University of Stockholm in Stockholm, Sweden July 1 - 7, 2012. As information becomes available, it will be posted at the meeting website linked to this page: http://www.icra.it/MG/ Regards, Remo Ruffini, University of Rome Robert Jantzen, Villanova University Kjell Rosquist, University of Stockholm +++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++ 1.2 2nd Galileo-Xu Guangqi Meeting (final program) -------------------------------------------------- Announcement on Hyperspace@AEI: http://hyperspace.aei.mpg.de/2010/06/29/2nd-galileo-xu-guangqi-meeting-fina… Starting Sun, Jul 11, 2010 to Fri, Jul 16, 2010 Location: Ventimiglia, Italy and Nice, France Additional Information: http://www.icranet.org/2nd_galileo-xuguangqi Registration at: http://ntsrvg9-2.icra.it/meetings/RegistrationXU2.htm The conference fee will be 350 € and it will cover coffee breaks, conference banquet and proceedings. The 2nd Galileo - Xu Guanqi meeting will be limited to 100 participants and will be held on July 11 - 17, 2010. The final program, together with wonderful images of Villa Hanbury, Villa Ratti and the Observatoire de la Côte d’Azur, can be downloaded clicking on the following link: http://www.icranet.org/images/stories/Meetings/XU2/program.pdf On the webpage you can find the list of titles and abstracts too. See also the previous announcements on hyperspace@aei: http://hyperspace.aei.mpg.de/tag/galileo-xuguangqi2/ Li-Zhi Fang and Remo Ruffini, Co-Chairs of the "2nd Galileo - Xu Guanqgi meeting" +++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++ 1.3 XIVth Brazilian School of Cosmology and Gravitation (second announcement) ----------------------------------------------------------------------------- Announcement on Hyperspace@AEI: http://hyperspace.aei.mpg.de/2010/06/04/xivth-brazilian-school-of-cosmology… Starting Mon, Aug 30, 2010 to Sat, Sep 11, 2010 Location: Rio de Janero, Brazil Additional Information: http://www.icranet.org.br The XIV Brazilian School of Cosmology and Gravitation (BSCG) will take place in Mangaratiba, two hours from Rio de Janeiro, from August 30 to September 11, 2010. The BSCG was founded in 1978 through the initiative of the Cosmology and Gravitation Group, of the Brazilian Center for Research in Physics (CBPF). The School is dedicated to the discussion of current research in Cosmology, Gravitation, Astrophysics and related fields, as well as to bringing together students and researchers from different countries. Details can be found at http://www.icranet.org.br ================================================================= 2. Jobs ================================================================= 2.1 Postdoc position in mathematical and/or numerical relativity at the University of Vienna -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Announcement on Hyperspace@AEI: http://hyperspace.aei.mpg.de/2010/06/07/postdoc-position-in-mathematical-an… Institution: Vienna, Austria Deadline: Thu, Jul 15, 2010 Additional Information: http://jobcenter.univie.ac.at/ The Gravitational Physics group of the Department of Physics of University of Vienna (see http://gravity.univie.ac.at/) is seeking to fill a post-doctoral position (Universitätsassistent/in) in the field of mathematical general relativity and/or numerical general relativity; in the latter case candidates with strong interest in rigorous aspects of numerical analysis will be sought. The initial appointment will be for two years, with a possibility of extension. The employment could start as early as September 2010, and we wish to fill the position before October 2010 in any case. The list of members of the group, including scientifically active retired members, includes Peter Aichelburg, Robert Beig, Piotr Chrusciel, Mark Hannam, Mark Heinzle, Helmut Rumpf and Helmut Urbantke. The gross salary is EUR 3248,70.- fourteen times a year. The teaching load is four hours/week, in English or in German. Applications should be done online before July 15, 2010 at URL http://jobcenter.univie.ac.at/ position numbered “Kennzahl 1195" (follow the link to the online advertisements) The candidates should arrange to have three letters of recommendation to be sent to Mrs Karin Picek, Mathematical Physics, Faculty of Physics, Boltzmanngasse 5/5/3521, A-1090 Vienna, Austria before July 15, 2010. Further enquiries can be directed to karin.picek[AT]univie.ac.at ================================================================= 3. News ================================================================= 3.1 Einstein Toolkit Release ---------------------------- Announcement on Hyperspace@AEI: http://hyperspace.aei.mpg.de/2010/06/18/einstein-toolkit-release/ Additional Information: http://einsteintoolkit.org/ We are pleased to announce the first release (code name "Bohr") of the Einstein Toolkit, an open, community developed software infrastructure for relativistic astrophysics. The Einstein Toolkit is a collection of over 130 software components and tools for simulating and analyzing general relativistic astrophysical systems that builds on numerous software efforts in the numerical relativity community including CactusEinstein, the Whisky hydrodynamics code, and the Carpet AMR infrastructure. The Cactus Framework is used as the underlying computational infrastructure providing large-scale parallelization, general computational components, and a model for collaborative, portable code development. The toolkit includes modules to build complete codes for simulating black hole spacetimes as well as systems governed by relativistic hydrodynamics. Current development in the consortium is targeted at providing additional infrastructure for general relativistic magnetohydrodynamics. The Einstein Toolkit uses a distributed software model and its different modules are developed, distributed, and supported either by the core team of Einstein Toolkit Maintainers, or by individual groups. Where modules are provided by external groups, the Einstein Toolkit Maintainers provide quality control for modules for inclusion in the toolkit and help coordinate support. The Einstein Toolkit Maintainers currently involve postdocs and faculty from five different institutions, and hold weekly meetings that are open for anyone to join in. Guiding principles for the design and implementation of the toolkit include: 1: Open, community-driven software development that encourages the sharing of code across the community, prevents code duplication, and leads to sustainable support and development of essential code. 2: Well thought out and stable interfaces between components that enable multiple implementations of physics capabilities, and allow groups or individuals to concentrate on their areas of interest. 3: Separation of physics software from computational science infrastructure so that new technologies for large scale computing, processor accelerators, or parallel I/O can be easily integrated with science codes. 4: The provision of complete working production codes to provide: prototypes, standard benchmarks, and testcases; codes that are available for and usable by the general astrophysics community; tools for new researchers and groups to enter this field; training and education for a new generation of researchers. For more information about using or contributing to the Einstein Toolkit, or to join the Einstein Toolkit Consortium, please visit our web pages at <http://einsteintoolkit.org>. We thank the numerous people who contributed to this software over the past many years; there are too many to be listed here. We also gratefully acknowledge those who helped in the past months to make this release happen. The Einstein Toolkit is primarily supported by NSF 0903973/0903782/0904015 (CIGR), and also by NSF 0701566/0855892 (XiRel), 0721915 (Alpaca), 0725070 (Blue Waters), and 0905046/0941653 (PetaCactus). The "Bohr" Release Team on behalf of the Einstein Toolkit Consortium (2010-06-17) +++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++ 3.2 Presentations of Workshop CIAS Meudon 2010 "Dark Matter in the Universe and Universal Properties of Galaxies: Theory and Observations" ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------ Announcement on Hyperspace@AEI: http://hyperspace.aei.mpg.de/2010/06/16/workshop-cias-meudon-2010-dark-matt… Additional Information: http://www.chalonge.obspm.fr/Cias_Meudon2010.html Ecole Internationale d'Astrophysique Daniel Chalonge Workshop CIAS Meudon 2010 "Dark Matter in the Universe and Universal Properties of Galaxies: Theory and Observations" We are pleased to inform you that the presentations by the lecturers during The Chalonge Workshop CIAS Meudon 2010 are available on-line (in pdf format) in "Programme and Lecturers" at the Workshop site: http://www.chalonge.obspm.fr/Cias_Meudon2010.html http://www.chalonge.obspm.fr/Programme_CIAS2010.html The photographs of the workshop will be posted soon on this site. We thank all again, both lecturers and participants, for having contributed so much to this workshop and look forward to seeing you again in a next meeting of this series. With compliments and kind regards, Norma G Sanchez, Hector J de Vega http://chalonge.obspm.fr/ +++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++ 3.3 Death of Brian Edgar ------------------------ Announcement on Hyperspace@AEI: http://hyperspace.aei.mpg.de/2010/06/15/death-of-brian-edgar/ Brian Edgar Brian Edgar sadly passed away last Thursday June 10th from a stroke. He is survived by a wife, son, daughter and grandson who all live in Linköping, Sweden. Brian worked at the Mathematics Department of Linköping University (LiU). He was born in Northern Ireland and had that marvellous broad Northern Ireland accent which people loved to hear. Brian finished his PhD under the supervision of Clive Kilmister (who also sadly died about a month ago). Brian was an ‘Effer’, a name given by and to the PhD students who shared the office at room F of the old building of King's College, on Surrey Street, just above the Aldwych station and the London Roman Bath, from mid 60's to mid 70’s. That was a very rich period for gravitation physics when we lived under the strong influence of Felix Pirani, Hermann Bondi, Roger Penrose, Stephen Hawking, William Bonnor, Clive Kilmister among others. This was a rich period when many new ideas on gravitational physics were being created, mostly on its mathematical aspects. After graduating from Queen’s Belfast, Brian worked in Cameroon and Ghana before his PhD studies and after his PhD exam he went back to work in Ghana. After many years in Ghana he moved to Botswana in 1982. During this time he also in secret supervised a banned ANC activist that later became a South African minister who opened the Durban GR meeting in 2001. He then moved to Linköping in Sweden in 1987, where he and Malcolm Ludvigsen inaugurated and developed the gravitational physics program at LiU. He was the supervisor of several successful PhD students. One of his characteristics was to help the development of applied mathematics programs in developing countries, a passion that was born during his time in Africa. He was working on a program for collaboration between the Swedish and Brazilian applied mathematical programs, but it was beaten by the slow pace of bureaucracy and shortness of life. Brian was a classical relativist, in the sense that his works were mainly motivated by geometrical aspects of Riemann geometry in general relativity. Part of his work was devoted to the field of exact solutions and in particular the GHP formalism and generalisations of it. An important outcome of these studies is the Edgar-Ludwig metrics. In the latter period, motivated by the support of Kilmister, he was working with various collaborators on the problem of Lanczos potentials and dimensionally-dependent identities for general relativity. At the time of his passing he was finishing one of such papers. We will miss his scientific enthusiasm, his willingness to help scientists around the world, and above all his always joyful presence. >From all friends of Brian

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[Hyperspace-list] Hyperspace Bulletin for June 2010
by hyperspace＠aei.mpg.de 02 Jun '10

02 Jun '10

################################################################# Table of Contents ################################################################# 1. Conferences 1.1 2nd Galileo-Xu Guangqi Meeting (registration) 1.2 Chandra Centennial Symposium 1.3 5th VESF School on Gravitational Waves 1.4 IPMU focus week on string cosmology 1.5 Primordial Features and Non-Gaussianities (PFNG-2010) 2. Jobs 2.1 International Relativistic Astrophysics PhD Program 2010-2011 2.2 Research Fellow in Fundamental Physics in the European Space Agency 3. News 3.1 Death of Clive Kilmister 3.2 2010 Awards for Essays on Gravitation Winners 3.3 Prizes and Honors at the GR19 Conference in Mexico City ================================================================= 1. Conferences ================================================================= 1.1 2nd Galileo-Xu Guangqi Meeting (registration) ------------------------------------------------- Announcement on Hyperspace@AEI: http://hyperspace.aei.mpg.de/2010/05/31/2nd-galileo-xu-guangqi-meeting-regi… Starting Sun, Jul 11, 2010 to Fri, Jul 16, 2010 Location: Ventimiglia, Italy and Nice, France Additional Information: http://www.icranet.org/2nd_galileo-xuguangqi Registration at: http://ntsrvg9-2.icra.it/meetings/RegistrationXU2.htm A reduced fee of 350 EUR will be applied prior to June 15th, 2010. After this date the fee will be 450 EUR. Dear Colleagues, The 2nd Galileo-XuGuangqi meeting follows the 1st meeting of this series held on October 2009 in Shanghai. The goal is to create once a year a forum for strategic exchanges between eastern and western science at the highest level dealing with Relativistic Astrophysics and related fundamental theoretical, experimental and observational fields. We plan to continue the format of this meeting addressing topics generally related to Relativistic Astrophysics and theoretical and observational topics. The aim is to enlarge the audience from the one strictly Chinese and Italian to one embracing European and western scientific interests and the Eastern ones. In this sense a broader participation from Korea and Taiwan has been encouraged, as well as a participation of scientists from Europe and the Americas. The 2nd Galileo - Xu Guanqi meeting will be limited to 90 participants and will be held on July 11 - 17, 2010. It represents a collaboration between the University of Nice - Sophie Antipolis, ICRANet, University of Genova, University of Roma “La Sapienza”, Institute for the Early Universe, APCTP, ENEA, Embassy of Italy in Seoul, Stockholm University, NAOC, INFN, Korean Astronomy and Space Science Institute, Cote d’Azur Observatory, Free University of Berlin, ICTP. The lectures will take place at the splendid Hanbury Villa (http://www.giardinihanbury.com) on the border between Italy and France on the Riviera. A special visit will be planned on the 14th of July to Villa Ratti, Nice, where a new ICRANet Center is going to be inaugurated. This 2nd Galileo –Xu Guangqi meeting will be the occasion to establish the lectures of the IRAP PhD program sponsored by the European Community, which will be delivered starting from September 2010 at the University of Nice - Sophia Antipolis. Such a program sees the participation of the University of Nice-Sophia Antipolis, the University of Savoie, the University of Stockholm, the University of Berlin, the University of Ferrara, the University of Roma, ICRANet, Observatoire de la Cote d'Azur, the Tartu Observatory, the Shanghai Astronomical Observatory, the Albert Einstein Institut, the Indian Centre for Space Physics and the Brazilian Centre for Physics Research. The ten selected international students, four from Europe and six from Asia and the Americas, will participate in these lectures. The preliminary program can be downloaded clicking on the following link: http://www.icranet.org/images/stories/Meetings/XU2/program.pdf On the webpage you can find the list of titles and abstracts too. Moreover, on the same page you can find a list of hotels; you can directly contact the hotel you prefer, indicating you are taking part in the conference in order to have the special rate reserved for the participants. A transportation to and from Villa Hanbury in the morning and at the end of the afternoon session will be provided. There will be the possibility of having lunch in the Garden of the Villa. Li-Zhi Fang and Remo Ruffini, Co-Chairs of the "2nd Galileo - Xu Guanqgi meeting" +++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++ 1.2 Chandra Centennial Symposium --------------------------------- Announcement on Hyperspace@AEI: http://hyperspace.aei.mpg.de/2010/05/20/chandra-centennial-symposium-2/ Starting Fri, Oct 15, 2010 to Sun, Oct 17, 2010 Location: Chicago, U.S.A. Additional Information: http://chandra100.uchicago.edu/ The website for the previously announced Chandra Centennial Symposium is now "live": http://chandra100.uchicago.edu/ We recommend that you register for the Symposium and book your accommodations as early as possible. Full announcement at http://hyperspace.aei.mpg.de/2010/02/13/chandra-centennial-symposium/ Bob Wald +++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++ 1.3 5th VESF School on Gravitational Waves ------------------------------------------ Announcement on Hyperspace@AEI: http://hyperspace.aei.mpg.de/2010/05/18/5th-vesf-school-on-gravitational-wa… Starting Mon, Jul 26, 2010 to Fri, Jul 30, 2010 Location: Sesto Pusteria (Bolzano), Italy Additional Information: http://www.roma1.infn.it/teongrav/VESF/SCHOOL.html This is the annual school on Gravitational Waves, now in its 10th edition (5th under the VESF auspices. This year, for the first time, the school will take place in the summer and in the Dolomites village of Sesto Val Pusteria (Sexten in German). Topics taught in the school will be: * Introduction to GR and sources of GW: isolated (burst and periodic) binaries and stochastic background * Interferometers, present and future facilities * Data Analysis * LISA space interferometer * Related astrophysical searches: neutrinos, gamma and X ray, pulsar timing etc. +++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++ 1.4 IPMU focus week on string cosmology --------------------------------------- Announcement on Hyperspace@AEI: http://hyperspace.aei.mpg.de/2010/05/18/ipmu-focus-week-on-string-cosmology/ Starting Mon, Oct 04, 2010 to Fri, Oct 08, 2010 Location: Kashiwa, Japan Additional Information: http://www.ipmu.jp/node/709 We project a workshop on string cosmology just after the COSMO/CosPa 2010 conference. Covered topics include stringy inflation models, string phenomenology, and various theoretical approaches to string cosmology. The daily schedule will include a few presentations and plenty of time for informal discussions. Dates: October 4-8, 2010 Place: Lecture Hall, IPMU, University of Tokyo, Japan Organizers: * Robert Brandenberger (McGill) * Shinji Mukohyama (IPMU) * Fuminobu Takahashi (IPMU) Confirmed invited speakers: * Daniel Baumann (IAS) * Robert Brandenberger (McGill) * Kiwoon Choi (KAIST) * Sumit R. Das (Kentucky) * Elias Kiritsis (Crete) * Tatsuo Kobayashi (Kyoto) * Gary Shiu (Wisconsin) * Kostas Skenderis (Amsterdam) Contributed talk: Those who wish to apply for a contributed talk are requested to send the title and abstract to the registration form before July 30, 2010 (JST): http://regist.ipmu.jp/fw2010oct/ Registration: If you would like to attend, please register on-line: http://regist.ipmu.jp/fw2010oct/ Registration Deadline: July 30, 2010. +++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++ 1.5 Primordial Features and Non-Gaussianities (PFNG-2010) --------------------------------------------------------- Announcement on Hyperspace@AEI: http://hyperspace.aei.mpg.de/2010/05/17/primordial-features-and-non-gaussia… Starting Tue, Dec 14, 2010 to Sat, Dec 18, 2010 Location: Allahabad, India Additional Information: http://www.hri.res.in/~pfng/index.html We are pleased to announce the international meeting titled "Primordial features and non-Gaussianities (PFNG-2010)" that is to be held at the Harish-Chandra Research Institute (HRI), Allahabad, India, during December 14-18, 2010. The meeting will focus on understanding the generation and detection of primordial (both inflationary as well as non/post-inflationary) features and non-Gaussianities. While the first four days (December 14-17, 2010) of the meeting will be dedicated to these topics, the fifth day (i.e. December 18, 2010) will focus on issues in string cosmology. The web-site for the meeting can be accessed at either of the following URLs: http://www.hri.res.in/~pfng/index.html http://www.mri.ernet.in/~pfng/index.html The Scientific Organizing Committee of the meeting consists of: * Richard Easther (Yale University) * Alan Heavens (Institute for Astronomy, Edinburgh) * Eiichiro Komatsu (University of Texas at Austin) * Juan Maldacena (Institute for Advanced Study, Princeton) * Jerome Martin, Chair (Institut d'Astrophysique de Paris) * Subir Sarkar (University of Oxford) * Tarun Souradeep (IUCAA, Pune) * Matias Zaldarriaga (Institute for Advanced Study, Princeton) The program will consist of invited plenary talks and contributed talks as well as posters. Invited plenary speakers include: * Xingang Chen (DAMTP, University of Cambridge) * Asantha Cooray (University of California, Irvine) * Amir Hajian (Princeton University) * Mark Hindmarsh (University of Sussex) * Shamit Kachru (KITP, Santa Barbara) * Liam McAllister (Cornell University) * Dipak Munshi (Cardiff University) * Hiranya Peiris (University College, London) * Christophe Ringeval (Louvain University) * David Seery (University of Sussex) * Arman Shafieloo (University of Oxford) * Eva Silverstein (KITP, Santa Barbara) * Kendrick Smith (Princeton University), To be confirmed * Licia Verde (Institute of Cosmological Sciences, Barcelona) The registration for the meeting is now open, and we welcome contributed talks and posters. Please visit the web-site or write to us at the address <pfng[AST]hri.res.in> for further information about the meeting. We look forward to seeing you at HRI in December 2010. L. Sriramkumar and Sudhakar Panda. (On behalf of the Local Organizing Committee) ================================================================= 2. Jobs ================================================================= 2.1 International Relativistic Astrophysics PhD Program 2010-2011 ----------------------------------------------------------------- Announcement on Hyperspace@AEI: http://hyperspace.aei.mpg.de/2010/05/31/international-relativistic-astrophy… Institution: Nice, France Deadline: Thu, Sep 30, 2010 Additional Information: http://www.icra.it/IRAPPhD/2010/ In 2010-2011 ten positions will be available, six with fellowship support. The application deadline is September 30th, 2010. Application Forms: http://www.icra.it and http://www.icranet.org Information: Dr. Carlo Luciano Bianco tel. + 39 06 4991 4 397 e-mail: bianco[AT]icra.it Following the successful scientific space missions by the European Space Agency (ESA) and the European Southern observatory (ESO) in Chile, as well as the high-energy particle activities at CERN in Genève, we have created a Ph.D. program dedicated to the formation of scientists in the field of relativistic astrophysics. The students of such a program will lead the theoretical developments of one of the most active fields of research, based on the above observational and experimental facilities. This program provides expertise in the most advanced topics of mathematical and theoretical physics, and in relativistic field theories, in the context of astronomy, astrophysics and cosmology.It provides the ability to model the observational data received from the above facilities. This activity is necessarily international, no single university can cover the broad expertises. The proposed program of the IRAP Ph.D. enjoys the collaboration of some of the most famous European Universities with one of the youngest and most dynamical French universities, the University of Nice-Sophia Antipolis. Also it benefits from the presence of the Observatoire de la Côte d’Azur and the presence of the ICRANet Center at Villa Ratti in Nice, where the coordination of the IRAP Ph.D. will take place. The astronomical aspects of the large scale of the Universe will be illustrated by the teaching by the Tartu Observatory. The activities at ICRANet Centers, at the ETH of Zurich, at the University of Rome, at Stockholm University offer teaching programs in all the fields of relativistic astrophysics, including cosmology, the physics of gravitational collapse, gamma-ray bursts, and black hole physics. The participation of the Freie Universität Berlin and of the Einstein Institute in Potsdam offers the possibility of teaching in relativistic field theories at the highest level. The University of Savoie offers the link to the particle physics at CERN. The University of Ferrara will be present with lectures and researches in the topics they have pioneered such as instrumentations developments and data analysis for X and Gamma ray astrophysics and observational cosmology.Through ICRANet the extra-European connections with Brazil, China and India will be guaranteed: in China, with the Shanghai Observatory of the Chinese Academy of Science, studying the formation and evolution of large-scale structure and galaxies; in India, with the Indian Centre for Space Physics (ICSP), renowned for its research on compact objects as well as on solar physics and astrochemistry; in Brazil, with ICRABR at CBPF and the Rio de Janeiro brach of ICRANet, where a successful program of research and teaching in relativistic astrophysics has been established in recent years. The Courses: Each student will have to follow 180 hours of courses during the three years of the Ph.D. program. There is also the possibility to follow courses from the other Physics, Mathematics, Astronomy and Astrophysics Ph.D. programs in each participating institution, after approval by the faculty. A list of courses and faculty is available at http://www.icra.it/IRAPPhD/2010/ The Host Institution for the call of 2010-2011 is the Université de Nice Sophia Antipolis Grand Château 28 Avenue Valrose 21 - B.P. 2135 06103 NICE CEDEX 2 +++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++ 2.2 Research Fellow in Fundamental Physics in the European Space Agency ----------------------------------------------------------------------- Announcement on Hyperspace@AEI: http://hyperspace.aei.mpg.de/2010/05/20/research-fellow-in-fundamental-phys… Institution: Noordwijk, The Netherlands Additional Information: http://www.esa.int/act The European Space Agency's Advanced Concepts Team (ACT) is looking for highly motivated young researchers in the area of fundamental physics, with good analytical and communicational skills and an excellent aptitude for teamwork. The Team The Advanced Concepts Team (ACT) is a group of research fellows (post-docs) and young graduates who originate from a broad variety of academic fields and aim at an academic career. The team's task is to monitor, perform and foster research on advanced space systems, innovative concepts and working methods. It interacts externally almost exclusively with academia and operates as a truly interdisciplinary team bound to high scientific standards. Via its research, the team acts as a cross-departmental pathfinder to explore novel, potentially promising areas for ESA and the space sector, ranging from applied to basic fundamental topics. The team is in constant evolution and attempts to lead and embrace changes and new trends. Each member is therefore encouraged and expected to contribute and suggest changes. Internally, the Advanced Concepts Team acts as the technical think-tank within the Director General's Policy Office. Thus, an important task of the team is to communicate scientific trends and results, as input to the strategic planning of the Agency. The team has been active in the field of fundamental physics since several years and interested candidates are invited to get familiar with these projects (http://www.esa.int/gsp/ACT/phy/index.htm) while being encouraged to expand the domain to new interesting fields not yet covered. Duties and Tasks Successful candidates will perform research in theoretical physics and will in particular carry out the following tasks: • Assess and investigate concepts and effects, either current of foreseen, derived from novel theoretical or experimental discoveries in physics for their potential application and use in space systems. • Propose and perform high-level research in the field of physics together with universities of ESA member states (in particular through the Ariadna programme (http://www.esa.int/ariadna) • Lead and assist interdisciplinary projects with other ACT Research Fellows in topics where the above-mentioned areas of physics play an important role. • Participate, with the rest of the team, in the assessment of proposed space system concepts - these not being restricted only to the area of fundamental / theoretical physics - and propose new concepts and assessment studies. • Perform or participate in small studies on subjects of strategic interest to provide inhouse expertise to ESA's Director General's Policy Office and its General Studies Programme. • Follow and monitor the progress of research in areas of physics of interest to the team in order to derive and report strategic trends. • Critically assess ideas and concepts for space systems relying on methods or phenomena of the area of fundamental physics that are brought to the attention of the ACT. Areas of research are partly chosen by the successful candidate based on his/her own expert judgements and insight into trends and developments in fundamental physics, partly chosen by the team as to follow strategic directions of the Agency. Based on past and current assessments, ACT areas of research in fundamental physics include condensed matter physics, quantum physics and applications of Bose-Einstein condensates and gravitation, but candidates are encouraged to expand these. Qualifications The candidate should hold a degree in Physics, Mathematics or Aerospace Engineering. He or she should also have completed (or be about to complete) a PhD in Physics (with the subject of the thesis being relevant to the description of the tasks outlined above) and aim at an academic/research career. The candidate is expected to bring to the team functioning links to universities and research institutes. The candidate should demonstrate an interest in space science and / or technology as well as the ability and interest to get actively involved in prospective interdisciplinary research. Successful candidates are expected to show an aptitude to contextualise specialised areas of research and to quickly assess their potential with respect to other domains and applications. An avid, natural curiosity and a passion for new subjects and research areas are essential. As member of an interdisciplinary, multicultural team of peers, the candidate should have a natural aptitude to teamwork, while being able to set-up, follow, monitor and be responsible for his/her own personal research plans and directions. Good methodological and organisation skills are therefore a valuable asset. Application Information on the ESA Research Fellowship Programme and the application form are available at: http://www.esa.int/SPECIALS/Careers_at_ESA/SEM19DXO4HD_0.html. Applicants should send their CV, a covering letter stating their research interests and the filled-out RF application form to: act[At]esa.int as well as temp.htr[At]esa.int. (if not possible by email, the four reference letters can also be sent via normal mail to: ESTEC HR Division, RES-HTR, ESA/ESTEC; Keplerlaan 1, PO Box 299, 2200AG Noordwijk ZH, The Netherlands). The general eligibility criteria of the ESA Research (Internal) Fellowship Programme apply. All applications will be considered until the available post is filled. Application deadline for this round of interviews: no later than May 31, 2010. For more information please visit: ESA: http://www.esa.int, the Advanced Concepts Team: http://www.esa.int/act or send us an email to: act[AT]esa.int ================================================================= 3. News ================================================================= 3.1 Death of Clive Kilmister ---------------------------- Announcement on Hyperspace@AEI: http://hyperspace.aei.mpg.de/2010/05/31/death-of-clive-kilmister/ Clive Kilmister I regret to have to report that Clive Kilmister died on the second of May 2010. Clive's Ph D research was carried out at Queen Mary College where the cosmologist George McVittie was his supervisor. From 1950 until he retired in 1984 he spent his academic career in the Mathematics Department at King's College London. In 1954, Hermann Bondi, Felix Pirani and Clive formed the nucleus of the King's gravitational theory group, one of the small number of centres that initiated the renaissance of research on general relativity in the 1950's. At one time Clive was a member of the International Committee on GRG and he was heavily involved in the organisation of the GR4 conference in London. Clive had broad interests and at various times he was the president of the British Society for the History of Mathematics, the president of the Mathematical Association, and the president of the British Society for the Philosophy of Science. He was also Gresham Professor of Geometry from 1972 until 1988. As well as his research papers Clive wrote about a dozen books, including a number on relativity and classical mechanics. His Ph D research had been related to Eddington's later work, which is opaque to most, and throughout his career he retained his interest in it. Later in life he and his long-term collaborator Ted Bastin became founding members of the Alternative Natural Philosophy Association. Together they wrote a number of books, the last of which "The Origin of Discrete Particles" was published in 2009. Clive was noted for his willingness to undertake heavy administrative tasks. These he discharged amiably and efficiently. He was loved by the students and admired and respected by his grateful colleagues. ----------------------------------------------------------------------- David Robinson, Emeritus Professor of Mathematics, Mathematics Department, King's College London, Strand, London WC2R 2LS, UK. Room K4U.22, Fourth floor King's Building, Strand Campus. My office telephone: +44 (0)20 7848 2221; Maths Department Office: +44 (0)20 7848 2828 ----------------------------------------------------------------------- +++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++ 3.2 2010 Awards for Essays on Gravitation Winners ------------------------------------------------- Announcement on Hyperspace@AEI: http://hyperspace.aei.mpg.de/2010/05/23/2010-awards-for-essays-on-gravitati… Additional Information: http://www.gravityresearchfoundation.org/ GRAVITY RESEARCH FOUNDATION PO BOX 81389 WELLESLEY HILLS MA 02481-0004 USA THE TRUSTEES ARE PLEASED TO ANNOUNCE THE AWARDS FOR ESSAYS FOR 2010. 1. $4,000 - Building Up Spacetime with Quantum Entanglement by Mark Van Raamsdonk, Department of Physics and Astronomy, University of British Columbia, 6224 Agricultural Road, Vancouver, B.C., V6T 1W9, Canada; e-mail: mav[AT]phas.ubc.ca 2. $1,250 - Membrane Paradigm Realized? by Samir D. Mathur, Department of Physics, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH 43210; e-mail: mathur[AT]mps.ohio-state.edu 3. $1,000 - The Dangers of Extremes by Donald Marolf, Physics Department, UCSB, Santa Barbara, CA 93106; e-mail: marolf[AT]physics.ucsb.edu 4. $750 - The Necessity of Torsion in Gravity by Richard T. Hammond, Department of Physics, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC 27599 and ARO Research Triangle Park; e-mail: rhammond[AT]email.unc.edu 5. $500 - Conditions for Spontaneous Homogenization of the Universe by Krzysztof Bolejko (1) and William R. Stoeger (2), (1) Steward Observatory, University of Arizona, Tucson, AZ 85721 and Nicolaus Copernicus Astronomical Center, Bartycka 18, 00-716 Warszawa, Poland; (2) Vatican Observatory Research Group, University of Arizona, Tucson, AZ 85721: e-mail: bolejko[AT]camk.edu.pl Selected for Honorable Mention this year were (listed in alphabetical order): Antonio Accioly, Jose' Helayel- Neto, and Eslley Scatena; Giovanni Amelino-Camelia, Niccolo' Loret, Gianluca Mandanici, and Flavio Mercati; Sudarshan Ananth; R. Balbinot, I. Carusotto, A. Fabbri, and A. Recati; Rabin Banerjee; R. Brout; A. A. Coley; F. I. Cooperstock and M. J. Dupre; Aharon Davidson and Ilya Gurwich; John Bruce Davies; A. Di Virgilio, U. Schreiber, N. Beverini, and A. Tartaglia; Sourish Dutta, Robert J. Scherrer, and Stephen D. H. Hsu; Ariel Edery and Benjamin Constantineau; Shahar Hod; Craig J. Hogan; Vishnu Jejjala, Djordje Minic, Y. Jack Ng, and Chia-Hsiung Tze; Axel Kleinschmidt and Hermann Nicolai; Lance Labun and Johann Rafelski; M. D. Maia; Adam Moss, Ali Narimani, and Douglas Scott; Ishwaree P. Neupane; T. Padmanabhan; Don N. Page; Carlo Rovelli and Francesca Vidotto; Tejinder P. Singh; C. Sivaram; Martin S. Sloth; George F. Smoot; C. S. Unnikrishnan and G. T. Gillies; A sher Yahalom. This announcement and abstracts of award-winning and honorable mention essays will be posted when ready on our web site, http://www.gravityresearchfoundation.org/. The five award-winning essays will be published in the Journal of General Relativity and Gravitation (GRG) and subsequently, in a special issue of the International Journal of Modern Physics D (IJMPD). They will also be posted at a later date on our web site. +++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++ 3.3 Prizes and Honors at the GR19 Conference in Mexico City ----------------------------------------------------------- Announcement on Hyperspace@AEI: http://hyperspace.aei.mpg.de/2010/05/23/prizes-and-honors-at-the-gr19-confe… AWARDS FOR BEST PRESENTATIONS DURING GR19 Session Chairs will send their nominations for the best student and post-doc presentations during GR19 to Professor Donald Marolf, the Chair of the GR19 Scientific Committee. He will send an ordered list to the Executive Committee of the Society which will make the final selection soon after GR19, taking into account the geographic, gender and thematic balance. The students prizes, the Hartle Awards are sponsored by Professor James B. Hartle. The post-doc prizes, the S. Chandrasekhar Awards are sponsored by World Scientific. *** THE JÜRGEN EHLERS THESIS PRIZE for an outstanding Ph.D. thesis in mathematical and numerical relativity will be awarded to DR NICHOLAS YUNES The selection committee consisting of David Garfinkle (Chair), Bernd Brügmann, Bala Iyer and Alan Rendall prepared the following citation: "For pioneering work on a variety of topics involving binary black holes, gravitational radiation, and Chern-Simons gravity" This prize is sponsored by Springer to honor the memory of Professor Jügen Ehlers. See: http://grg.maths.qmul.ac.uk/grgsoc/ehlersprize.php It carries a certificate and a check for $1,500 and will be awarded during the opening ceremony of the 19th International conference. *** THE BERGMANN-WHEELER THESIS PRIZE for a outstanding Ph.D. thesis in the broad area of quantum gravity will be awarded to DR VICTOR TAVERAS The selection committee consisting of Stephen Carlip (Chair), Gary Horowitz, Theodore Jacobson and Carlo Rovelli prepared the following citation: "For contributions to loop quantum cosmology and the development of a novel extension of loop quantum gravity." This prize is sponsored by Classical and Quantum Gravity to honor the memory of Professors Peter Bergmann and John Wheeler, pioneers of the field of quantum gravity. It carries a certificate and a check for $1,500 and will be awarded in the opening ceremony of the 19th International conference. *** THE GWIC THESIS PRIZE for an outstanding Ph.D. thesis based on research in gravitational waves. This is an annual award sponsored by the Gravitational Wave International Committee. See http://grg.maths.qmul.ac.uk/grgsoc/gwicprize.php It will be presented during the opening ceremony of the GR19 conference. *** THE BASILIS XANTHOPOULOS INTERNATIONAL AWARD will be presented to DR STEFAN HOLLANDS The committee consisting of Profs. Jorge Pullin (Chair), Piotr Chrusciel, Gary Gibbons, Nikolaos Stergioulas and Clifford Will prepared the following citation: "For his contributions to the mathematical aspects of gravitational physics, especially concerning the theory of quantum fields in curved space-time. Dr. Hollands' work helped bring this area of research to a new level of clarity and mathematical rigor." The prize is sponsored by the FORTH Foundation, Hellas, to honor the memory of Basilis Xanthopoulos and is given to a scientist, below 40 years of age, who has made outstanding (preferably theoretical) contributions to gravitational physics. See: http://grg.maths.qmul.ac.uk/grgsoc/xanthprize.php It carries a certificate and a check for approximately $10,000. It will be awarded during the opening ceremony of the conference. *** FELLOWSHIPS The Society elected 10 Fellows in this first round. According to the rules governing this election, at least five had to be below 45 years of age. The Electors were Beverly Berger (Chair), David Blair, Misao Sasaki, and three ex-officio members Abhay Ashtekar (President), Clifford Will (Deputy president) and Malcolm MacCallum (Secretary). The new Fellows will be inducted during the Business Meeting of the Society. * Alessandra Buonanno "For leading advances in the theory of general relativistic two-body dynamics and in the production and detection of gravitational waves''. * Alejandro Corichi "For his significant contributions to loop quantum gravity and his leadership in numerous initiatives for the international gravity community''. * Gabriela Gonzalez "For her outstanding contributions to the gravitational wave science and leadership in the LIGO Collaboration''. * James Hough "For outstanding contributions in gravitational wave detection''. * Don Marolf "For a broad range of insightful contributions to quantum gravity and quantum field theory in curved spacetime''. * Roger Penrose "For his pioneering contributions to our understanding of global issues in general relativity which form many of the foundations of the modern era of gravitational physics''. * Frans Pretorius "For his seminal contributions which have transformed the subject of numerical relativity". * Carlo Rovelli "For leading contributions to the field of quantum gravity, including loop quantum gravity and spin foam models, and for leadership in creating a vibrant quantum gravity community in France". * Madhavan Varadarajan "For his numerous insightful contributions to conceptually difficult and deep problems in classical and quantum gravity". * David Wands "For his seminal contributions to theoretical cosmology, particularly in the areas of cosmological perturbation theory".

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