BHEX Postdoctoral Research Fellow: Black Hole Explorer (BHEX)

Harvard University; Cambridge (MA); On-site; USD 70,000 - 80,000; Full time

Job summary

Harvard University invites applications for the BHEX Postdoctoral Research Fellow: Black Hole Explorer (BHEX). Fellows will pursue research spanning theory, simulations, instrumentation, or mission design related to the BHEX mission, under the supervision of Michael Johnson and Peter Galison within the Black Hole Initiative.

The nominal start date is September 1, 2027, with a three-year appointment and funds for research expenses, publication charges, and travel.

Qualifications

• Ph.D. in astronomy, physics, engineering, applied mathematics, computer science, or closely related field.
• Strong research record in black hole theory, numerical simulation, or instrumentation is preferred.

Responsibilities

• Pursue research on theory, simulations, instrumentation, or mission design related to BHEX.
• Collaborate across astronomy, physics, engineering, and history/philosophy of science.
• Contribute to scientific and technical foundations of the BHEX mission.

Education

Ph.D. in astronomy, physics, engineering, applied mathematics, computer science, or related field

Job description

Harvard University

Position Details

Title

BHEX Postdoctoral Research Fellow: Black Hole Explorer (BHEX)

School

Faculty of Arts and Sciences

Department/Area

Black Hole Initiative

Position Description

Fellows will pursue research on theory, simulations, instrumentation, or mission design and development related to the Black Hole Explorer (BHEX) mission. BHEX is a proposed space-based observatory designed to enable transformational horizon-scale studies of black holes and their relativistic jets.

The fellow will work under the supervision of Michael Johnson (BHEX Principal Investigator) and Peter Galison (BHEX Science Team Lead).

The successful candidates will be embedded within the interdisciplinary research environment of the Black Hole Initiative, with the opportunity to interact and collaborate with researchers across astronomy, physics, engineering, and the history and philosophy of science, while advancing the scientific and technical foundations of BHEX.

The nominal starting date for BHEX fellows is September 1, 2027. Each appointment is expected to continue for three years, contingent on performance and funding. Resources for research expenses including publication charges, related conference travel, workshops, and computing resources will be available.

Further information about the BHI may be found at http://www.bhi.fas.harvard.edu; information about BHEX may be found at https://www.blackholeexplorer.org/.

Please direct any questions about the application process to Nicole Grenier:[e-mail]

Basic Qualifications

All the following online application materials are requested:

Uploaded Forms in PDF (preferred) or Plain Text Format:

• 1. Curriculum Vitae
• 2. Three Letters of reference
• 3. Research Statement
• 4. publication list

Additional Qualifications

A Ph.D. in astronomy, physics, engineering, applied mathematics, computer science, or a closely related field is preferred. Candidates should demonstrate a strong record of research and expertise relevant to one or more aspects of BHEX, including black-hole theory, numerical simulation, interferometric data analysis, instrumentation, or space-mission design and development.

Special Instructions Contact Information

Nicole Grenier

BHI Division Administrator

617-496-8956

Contact Email:[e-mail]

Salary Range

$70,000-$80,000: Pay offered to the selected candidate is dependent on factors such as years of experience, training or qualification, field of scholarship, and accomplishments in the field

Minimum Number of References Required

3

Maximum Number of References Allowed

4

EEO/Non-Discrimination Commitment Statement

Harvard University is committed to equal opportunity and non-discrimination. We seek talent from all parts of society and the world, and we strive to ensure everyone at Harvard thrives. Our differences help our community advance Harvard's academic purposes.

Harvard has an equal employment opportunity policy that outlines our commitment to prohibiting discrimination on the basis of race, ethnicity, color, national origin, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, veteran status, religion, disability, or any other characteristic protected by law or identified in the university's non-discrimination policy. Harvard's equal employment opportunity policy and non-discrimination policy help all community members participate fully in work and campus life free from harassment and discrimination.

Supplemental Questions

Required fields are indicated with an asterisk (*)

Applicant Documents Required Documents

Curriculum VitaeStatement of ResearchList of PublicationsOptional DocumentsCover LetterPI287171380