Postdoctoral Research Associate, Precision Space Astronomy (Multiple Positions)

The University of Arizona (UArizona) Department of Astronomy and Steward Observatory (SO) invites applications for Postdoctoral Research Associates interested in research related to precision wide-field high-resolution space imaging. Successful applicants would have the opportunity to work with faculty including Ewan S. Douglas and other faculty within the UArizona Space Astrophysics Lab (UASAL) and the Center for Astronomical Adaptive Optics (CAAO) on space imaging science.

The successful applicant would have the opportunity to join ongoing efforts in modeling and observational work, preparing for the next generation of high-resolution space instrumentation, with a team building instruments for both space and ground-based high-contrast imaging platforms. Particularly, this would include simulation and data reduction tools to maximize the science return from the Lazuli Wide-field Context Camera.

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 Wide-field Context Camera and 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!

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• Develop and lead an independent research agenda centered on high-resolution space imaging; disseminate work 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.

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

• Experience in precision space astronomy with focus on high resolution, high astrometric accuracy, and/or high photometric accuracy.
• Experience with CMOS sensors.
• Experience with data reduction pipelines.
• Experience contributing to open-source software or hardware projects.
• Demonstrated experience in technical communication.

1. CV
2. Cover Letter
3. Research Statement (limit: 5 pages)
4. List of Publications