Postdoctoral Research Associate I, Steward Observatory

UNIVERSITY OF ARIZONA; Tucson (AZ); On-site; USD 45,000 - 65,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Health insurance

Dental insurance

Tuition reduction

Paid vacation

Paid sick leave

Job summary

UNIVERSITY OF ARIZONA invites applications for a Postdoctoral Research Associate I to focus on thermal IR research and the characterization of exoplanet atmospheres. This position offers an opportunity to lead research and collaborate with faculty in a dynamic academic environment.

Candidates should possess a PhD in relevant fields, with experience in astronomical instrumentation preferred. Outstanding benefits are provided, including health insurance and tuition reductions for employees and families.

Qualifications

• PhD must be completed by the time of hire.
• Experience in operating astronomical instruments is desirable.
• Involvement in infrared observations preferred.

Responsibilities

• Lead independent research on thermal IR instrumentation.
• Disseminate work through publications.
• Organize collaborative meetings.

Skills

Research in exoplanet atmospheres

Astronomical instrumentation

IR data reduction

Collaboration

Education

PhD in Astronomy, Physics, Astrophysics, or related science

Tools

Adaptive optics

Coronagraphic instrument

Job description

Postdoctoral Research Associate I, Steward Observatory

The University of Arizona Department of Astronomy and Steward Observatory invite applications for Postdoctoral Research Associates interested in high‑contrast imaging and spectroscopy of exoplanets and substellar companions. The position focuses on the integration and commissioning of a first‑ever coronagraphic, adaptive optics‑assisted, long‑wavelength infrared IFU. Working with Dr. Brittany Miles and the Center for Astronomical Adaptive Optics, the successful candidate will lead independent research in exoplanet and brown dwarf atmospheres, collaborate with SO faculty, and may apply for time on Steward facilities as a principal investigator.

Duties & Responsibilities

• Develop and lead an independent research agenda centered on thermal IR instrumentation and the characterization of planetary atmospheres.
• Disseminate work through publications and presentations.
• Contribute to public engagement opportunities.
• Develop and implement research initiatives, collaborations, publications, and/or events as needed and relevant to the research agendas.
• Collaborate with faculty and scholars in support of an inclusive academic environment, including organizing collaborative meetings and supervising/mentoring graduate and undergraduate students.
• Additional duties as assigned.

Minimum Qualifications

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

Preferred Qualifications

• Candidates with a PhD in astronomy/astrophysics are preferred.
• Experience in operating and testing astronomical instruments, infrared observations, and data reduction is desirable.

Benefits

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.

Contact Information for Candidates

Brittany Miles, PhD
Assistant Professor
Assistant Astronomer
[e-mail]

Application Documents

• Curriculum Vitae (CV)
• Cover Letter
• Research statement (limit: 5 pages)
• List of publications
• Names and email addresses of references (minimum 3)