Postdoctoral Associate in Time-Domain Studies of Supermassive Black Holes

Massachusetts Institute of Technology; Cambridge (MA); Presencial; USD 65.000 - 90.000; Tempo integral

Resumo da vaga

The MIT Kavli Institute for Astrophysics and Space Research invites applications for a postdoctoral position focused on time-domain studies of supermassive black holes. Work with Prof. Erin Kara on AGN variability, SMBH transients, and follow-up across X-ray and other wavelengths.

Flexible start between Summer and Fall 2027 with potential for a third year. PhD in physics/astrophysics required and strong background in high-energy astrophysics.

Qualificações

• PhD in physics or astrophysics or closely related field.
• Background in high-energy astrophysics by start of position.

Responsabilidades

• Carry out collaborative and independent research in time-domain studies of supermassive black holes.
• Engage with multi-wavelength time-domain surveys and follow-up spectral/timing studies.
• Collaborate with MKI community and external observatories as needed.

Conhecimentos

Time-domain astrophysics

Independent researcher

Collaborative teamwork

High-energy astrophysics

Formação

PhD in physics or astrophysics

Ferramentas

X-ray timing analysis

Multi-wavelength survey data

Descrição da vaga

The MIT Kavli Institute (MKI) for Astrophysics and Space Research invites applications for a postdoctoral position to carry out collaborative and independent research programs in time-domain studies of supermassive black holes. The successful candidate will join the group led by Professor Erin Kara. The successful candidate will work in time-domain studies of Active Galactic Nuclei variability or supermassive black hole transients (e.g. Tidal Disruption Events, Quasi-Periodic Eruptions, Changing-look AGN), and will work with multi-wavelength time-domain surveys (like Rubin/LSST and ULTRASAT) or follow-up spectral and timing studies in X-rays and/or other wavelengths. They will have substantial freedom to suggest and work on other related projects.

Applicants must have a PhD in physics, astrophysics, or a closely related field, and have background in high-energy astrophysics by the start of the position. The appointment is for 2 years, with a third year contingent upon performance. The start date is flexible within Summer to Fall 2027.

The successful applicant must have the ability to carry out an independent research program, and work collaboratively with students and other members of the MKI community. Collaborative opportunities are enabled by MKI's community of astrophysicists, and its participation in the Magellan Telescopes, ULTRASAT, LISA, LIGO, TESS, Chandra, and XRISM Observatories.

MIT is an equal opportunity employer. We strongly encourage applications from individuals from all identities and backgrounds. All qualified applicants will receive equitable consideration for employment based on their experience and qualifications and will not be discriminated against on the basis of race, color, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, pregnancy, religion, disability, age, genetic information, veteran status, or national or ethnic origin. View MIT Policy on Non Discrimination and EEOC's Know Your Rights.

Employment is contingent upon the completion of a satisfactory background check, including possible verification of any findings of misconduct (or pending investigations) from prior employers.