Postdoc: Direct JWST Exoplanet Imaging & Disk Studies

ORAU; Greenbelt (MD); On-site; USD 50,000 - 70,000; Full time

Job summary

The NASA Postdoctoral Program at ORAU offers a unique opportunity for a postdoctoral candidate in Greenbelt, Maryland, to engage in research using the James Webb Space Telescope (JWST) for direct imaging of exoplanets and circumstellar disks. The applicant must have a Ph.D. in a relevant field and experience with high-contrast imaging. You will develop analysis techniques, work on data from various JWST programs, and collaborate with leading experts. Applications must be submitted by 11/1/2026, with advisor contact recommended beforehand.

Qualifications

• Experience and/or interest in using JWST for direct imaging.
• Prior experience with high-contrast imaging and post-processing techniques.
• Desirable background in exoplanets and circumstellar disks.

Responsibilities

• Develop techniques for JWST direct imaging data analyses.
• Apply techniques to data from JWST GO programs.
• Analyze results to discover and characterize wide-orbit exoplanets.

Skills

High-contrast imaging

Data analysis for exoplanets

Interest in circumstellar disks

Education

Ph.D. in astronomy, physics, or a related discipline

Job description

The NASA Postdoctoral Program at ORAU offers a unique opportunity for a postdoctoral candidate in Greenbelt, Maryland, to engage in research using the James Webb Space Telescope (JWST) for direct imaging of exoplanets and circumstellar disks. The applicant must have a Ph.D. in a relevant field and experience with high-contrast imaging. You will develop analysis techniques, work on data from various JWST programs, and collaborate with leading experts. Applications must be submitted by 11/1/2026, with advisor contact recommended beforehand.