Postdoctoral Research Associate, Exoplanet and Disk Coronagraph Imaging (Multiple Positions)

University of Arizona; Tucson (AZ); On-site; USD 65,000 - 90,000; Full time

Job summary

University of Arizona invites applications for Postdoctoral Research Associates in Exoplanet and Disk Coronagraph Imaging at the Steward Observatory, Tucson campus. The roles involve leading high-contrast imaging research, collaborating with Space Astrophysics Lab and CAAO teams, and contributing to upcoming space and ground-based campaigns.

Successful candidates will develop independent research, publish findings, and engage in outreach.

Qualifications

• PhD must be completed by the time of hire.
• Experience with high-contrast imaging data reduction or observing is preferred.
• Demonstrated ability to communicate technical research clearly.

Responsibilities

• Develop and lead an independent research program in high-contrast imaging of exoplanets and debris disks.
• Collaborate with faculty and teams to advance research agendas and organize meetings.
• Mentor graduate and undergraduate students and contribute to outreach as appropriate.
• Additional duties as assigned.

Skills

High-contrast imaging

Exoplanet science

Open-source software

Technical communication

Education

PhD in Astronomy/Physics/Astrophysics

Tools

Open-source software tooling

Job description

Postdoctoral Research Associate, Exoplanet and Disk Coronagraph Imaging (Multiple Positions)

Posting Number: req27484

Department: Steward Observatory

Department Website Link: https://astro.arizona.edu/

Location: Tucson Campus

Address: Tucson, AZ USA

Position Highlights

The University of Arizona (UArizona) Department of Astronomy and Steward Observatory (SO) invites applications for Postdoctoral Research Associates interested in research related to direct imaging of exoplanets. Successful applicants would have the opportunity to work with faculty including Logan Pearce, Ewan S. Douglas and other faculty within the UArizona Space Astrophysics Lab (UASAL) and the Center for Astronomical Adaptive Optics (CAAO) on high-contrast imaging exoplanet science. The successful applicant would have the opportunity to join ongoing efforts in modeling and observational work preparing for the next generation of exoplanet direct imaging observing campaigns in coordination with instrument building teams for both space and ground based high-contrast imaging platforms.

UA/SO offers a world-class research environment in ground and space-based astrophysics with strong interdisciplinary programs across the Departments of Astronomy, Physics, Planetary Sciences, and the UA Data Science Institute. Selected to build the Lazuli ExtraSolar Coronagraph, Giant Magellan Telescope instrumentation, and JWST instrument teams, Steward Observatory provides direct access to various world-class facilities for observing. Applicants would be eligible to submit their own science proposals.

The position will provide opportunities for outreach and student engagement, and applicants with interest in outreach are encouraged to apply.

Outstanding U of A benefits include health, dental, vision, and life insurance; paid vacation, sick leave, and holidays; U of A/ASU/NAU tuition reduction for the employee and qualified family members; access to U of A recreation and cultural activities; and more!

The University of Arizona has been recognized for our innovative work-life programs. For more information about working at the University of Arizona and relocations services, please

Duties & Responsibilities

• Develop and lead an independent research agenda centered on high-contrast imaging and imaging exoplanets and debris disks; disseminate findings through publications and presentations; contribute to public-engagement opportunities.
• Develop and implement research initiatives, collaborations, publications, and/or events (e.g., talks, workshops, visitor programs, etc.) as needed and relevant to research agendas.
• Collaborate with faculty and scholars in support of a welcoming academic environment (including organizing collaborative meetings, supervising/mentoring graduate and undergraduate students).
• Additional duties as assigned.

Minimum Qualifications

• Must have completed all the requirements for a PhD. in Astronomy, Physics, Astrophysics, or related science at the time of hire.

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience in high-contrast imaging data reduction and observing.
• Experience in exoplanet science.
• Familiarity and/or experience with exoplanet atmosphere modeling or processes.
• Experience contributing to open-source software or hardware projects.
• Demonstrated experience in technical communication.

FLSA: Exempt

Full Time/Part Time: Full Time

Number of Hours Worked per Week: 40

Job FTE: 1.0

Work Calendar: Fiscal

Job Category: Research

Benefits Eligible: Yes - Full Benefits

Rate of Pay: NIH Salary Guidelines, Depends on Experience

Compensation Type: salary at 1.0 full-time equivalency (FTE)

Type of criminal background check required: Name-based criminal background check (non-security sensitive)

Number of Vacancies: 2

Target Hire Date: 9/1/2027

Contact Information for Candidates

1. Ewan Douglas, Ph.D.
2. Associate Professor, Department of Astronomy
3. Associate Astronomer, Steward Observatory
4. [e-mail]

Open Date: 10/28/2026

Open Until Filled: Yes

Documents Needed to Apply: Curriculum Vitae (CV), Cover Letter, and Two Additional Documents

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