Postdoctoral Researcher, Astronomy

Top 2 Percent Scientists; Bloomington (IN); On-site; USD 63,000 - 77,000; Full time

Job summary

Indiana University Bloomington is seeking a Sullivan Prize Postdoctoral Fellow in astronomy/astrophysics. The fellowship invites candidates across the field, with preference for complementary work to departmental strengths and collaboration with IU faculty.

The appointment is for 2 years (potentially 3rd year) starting August 1, 2026, with a salary of $70,000 per year plus research funds. Access to WIYN telescope facilities and IU's computing resources is provided.

Qualifications

• Ph.D. in Astronomy, Astrophysics, or Physics completed by start date.

Responsibilities

• Conduct independent research in astronomy/astrophysics.
• Collaborate with IU faculty and leverage departmental resources.
• Present findings at seminars and contribute to student mentorship.

Education

Ph.D. in Astronomy, Astrophysics, or Physics

Job description

Title: Sullivan Prize Postdoctoral Fellow

Discover more

City & Local Guides

astronomy

Graduate Education

Department: Astronomy, Indiana University Bloomington

Category: Astronomy and Astrophysics

Type: Full-Time, Non-Tenure Track

Appointment: 2 years (possible 3rd year based on performance)

Start Date: August 1, 2026

Salary: $70,000 per year + research funds

Location: Bloomington, Indiana

Application Deadline (Best Consideration): December 8, 2025

Posting Number: IU-101414-2025

Astronomy

Position Summary

The Sullivan Prize Postdoctoral Fellowship invites applications from candidates in any field of astronomy or astrophysics, with preference for applicants whose work complements existing departmental strengths and fosters collaboration with IU faculty.

Discover more

Educational Resources

Astronomy, Astrophysics

Job

Research In The Department Includes

• Galactic and extra-galactic astrophysics
• Stellar astrophysics
• Exoplanets
• Stellar dynamics
• Observational, theoretical, and computational projects

Fellows Will Have Access To

• WIYN 3.5-m telescope at Kitt Peak, including:

Physics

• NEID high-precision radial velocity spectrometer
• Wide-field imagers
• Hydra multi-object spectrograph

• IU’s advanced IT infrastructure, including high-performance computing and large-scale data storage systems

The department emphasizes a collaborative, collegial environment and maintains strong ties with IU’s Physics Department and broader research community.

Qualifications

• Ph.D. in Astronomy, Astrophysics, or Physics (completed by start date).

Equal Opportunity Statement

Indiana University is an Equal Opportunity Employer (EOE). All qualified applicants will receive consideration without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, or veteran status. IU also provides ADA services.