Assistant Researcher (Observational Cosmology)

David Geffen School of Medicine at UCLA; Los Angeles (CA); On-site; USD 97,000 - 126,000; Full time

Job summary

The Department of Physics & Astronomy at UCLA seeks a full-time Assistant Researcher in observational cosmology. The successful candidate will analyze JWST and other observatories to constrain the expansion history of the universe, the Hubble constant, and the dark energy equation of state.

Applicants should have a Ph.D. in Astronomy or a related field and a demonstrated background in cosmology, gravitational lensing, and stellar dynamics, with a strong record of publication and data analysis

Qualifications

• Ph.D. in Astronomy or related field.
• Background in cosmology, strong gravitational lensing, and stellar dynamics.

Responsibilities

• Utilize JWST and other observatories to determine the expansion history of the universe, the Hubble constant, and dark energy equation of state.

Skills

Cosmology

Gravitational lensing

Stellar dynamics

Education

Ph.D. in Astronomy or related field

Job description

The Department of Physics & Astronomy at UCLA seeks applications for a full-time (100%) Assistant Researcher in the area of observational cosmology. Qualified candidates will have a Ph.D. in Astronomy or a related field and a demonstrated background in cosmology, strong gravitational lensing, and stellar dynamics. The position will involve utilizing strong lensing data from JWST and other observatories to determine the expansion history of the universe, the Hubble constant, and dark energy equation of state. Candidates should provide: a curriculum vita; a statement of research interests; a publication list; and complete a reference check authorization release form. The deadline for applications is September 30, 2026.

The posted UC salary scales set the minimum pay determined by rank and step at appointment. See Table 13B Represented Professional Research Series (ucop.edu).The salary range for this position is $96,700-$126,400.

• Ph.D. in Astronomy or a related field
• Demonstrated background in cosmology, strong gravitational lensing, and stellar dynamics