Postdoc: Exoplanet Imaging & JWST Data Analysis

NASA Jet Propulsion Laboratory; Pasadena (CA); On-site; USD 71,000 - 96,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Health, dental, vision plans

Retirement plans

Paid time off

Learning opportunities

Flexible schedule

Parental leave

Job summary

NASA Jet Propulsion Laboratory in Pasadena is seeking a postdoctoral researcher focused on the reduction and analysis of high-contrast imaging data, especially JWST/NIRCam coronagraphy. You will develop forward-modeling, phase retrieval, and wavefront-sensing techniques to advance exoplanet imaging capabilities and prepare methods for future Roman and Habitable Worlds Observatory projects.

The two-year appointment may be renewed, with opportunities to lead publications and collaborate across JPL

Qualifications

• PhD in astronomy, astrophysics, physics, or related field.
• Experience in astronomical data analysis and high-contrast imaging.
• Proficient in scientific programming, preferably Python.
• Strong analytical and quantitative skills.
• Excellent written and verbal communication.

Responsibilities

• Analyze and reduce JWST/NIRCam coronagraphic imaging observations.
• Develop and apply model-based forward modeling and phase retrieval techniques to JWST coronagraphic and NIRISS/AMI data, leveraging wavefront sensing telemetry to improve contrast performance.
• Characterize coronagraphic performance and investigate sources of systematic effects and residual starlight.
• Lead peer-reviewed publications and present research findings at scientific conferences.
• Collaborate with JPL and CalTech astronomers and instrument scientists on JWST science investigations.
• Apply techniques developed through JWST observations to future Roman and HWO coronagraphic imaging applications.

Skills

Python programming

Data analysis

Analytical thinking

Scientific communication

Astronomy research

Education

PhD in astronomy/astrophysics/physics

Tools

Python scripting

JWST data tools

Job description

NASA Jet Propulsion Laboratory in Pasadena is seeking a postdoctoral researcher focused on the reduction and analysis of high-contrast imaging data, especially JWST/NIRCam coronagraphy. You will develop forward-modeling, phase retrieval, and wavefront-sensing techniques to advance exoplanet imaging capabilities and prepare methods for future Roman and Habitable Worlds Observatory projects.

The two-year appointment may be renewed, with opportunities to lead publications and collaborate across JPL