Postdoctoral Research Associate I, Steward Observatory (High-Contrast Imaging & Interferometry)

TopSciNet; Tucson (AZ); Hybrid; USD 60,000 - 70,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Full benefits package

Job summary

The University of Arizona invites applications for a Postdoctoral Research Associate I to work on high-contrast imaging, high-angular-resolution, and interferometric observations with the Large Binocular Telescope (LBT). The position offers integration into the LBTI, SHARK-NIR, and SHARK-VIS teams and opportunities for independent research, including applying for telescope time as PI.

Responsibilities include leading independent research, supporting science observations and instrumentation, data

Qualifications

• Ph.D. in Astronomy, Physics, Astrophysics, or related field is required.
• Preferred: research experience in high-contrast imaging, interferometry, infrared astronomy, or astronomical instrumentation.
• Two years of relevant post-Ph.D. experience.

Responsibilities

• Lead independent research exploiting the LBTI, SHARK-NIR, and SHARK-VIS instruments.
• Support science observations, instrumentation, and commissioning efforts.
• Plan and perform data reduction and analysis.
• Mentor graduate and undergraduate students.
• Present results in publications, conferences, and outreach programs.
• Collaborate with faculty to foster an inclusive academic environment.

Skills

Independent research

Mentoring students

Data analysis

Education

PhD in Astronomy/Physics/Astro

Tools

LBTI instruments

SHARK-NIR

SHARK-VIS

Job description

Postdoctoral Research Associate I, Steward Observatory (High-Contrast Imaging & Interferometry)

The University of Arizona Tucson, AZ — USA

The University of Arizona Tucson, AZ USA Posted Nov 27, 2025 Due Nov 25, 2026

Physics

Job Description

Type: Full-Time
Location: Steward Observatory, Main Campus, Tucson, AZ, USA
Department: Astronomy / Steward Observatory
Salary: NIH salary guidelines (depends on experience)
Application: Open until filled
Start Date: March – August 2026

Position Overview

The University of Arizona invites applications for a Postdoctoral Research Associate to work on high-contrast imaging, high-angular-resolution, and interferometric observations with the Large Binocular Telescope (LBT). The position offers:

Integration into the LBTI, SHARK-NIR, and SHARK-VIS teams

Opportunities for independent research, including applying for telescope time as PI

Collaboration with the Italian National Astrophysics Institute (INAF)

Responsibilities

Lead independent research exploiting the LBTI, SHARK-NIR, and SHARK-VIS instruments

Support science observations, instrumentation, and commissioning efforts

Plan and perform data reduction and analysis

Mentor graduate and undergraduate students

Present results in publications, conferences, and outreach programs

Collaborate with faculty to foster an inclusive academic environment

Qualifications

Minimum:

Ph.D. in Astronomy, Physics, Astrophysics, or related field

Preferred:

Research experience in high-contrast imaging, interferometry, infrared astronomy, or astronomical instrumentation

Two years of relevant post-Ph.D. experience

Application Materials

List of Publications

Contact info for at least three references

Benefits: Full benefits including health, dental, vision, life insurance, tuition reduction, paid leave, and access to campus amenities.