Applications are invited for a postdoctoral researcher to work on instrumentation development for Doppler exoplanet searches at Yale University with Prof. Debra Fischer. The successful applicant must have a PhD in astronomy, physics or a related field, and an established track-record working in an optomechanical laboratory.
The Yale Exoplanet Lab is designing and developing a new extreme precision radial velocity spectrograph for Doppler planet searches of Earth-like worlds. We are especially interested in adding expertise for the development of precise wavelength calibration with stabilized etalons. The candidate must have a strong background in implementing closed-loop optomechanical control systems and algorithms. They must also have demonstrated experience in laboratory setup, test, and characterization, with an ability to see a project through from start to finish. Desired additional qualifications include experience using optical (Zemax) and mechanical (SolidWorks) design software.
Yale offers a lively intellectual environment and faculty and postdocs have access to world-class astronomical facilities, including Keck, WIYN, SMARTS and Chilean telescopes (through the Yale-Univ. de Chile collaboration).
Applicants should send curriculum vitae with list of publications and a brief description of research interests and plans, and arrange for three letters of recommendation to be sent directly to debra.fischer@yale.edu. All materials should be submitted electronically in PDF format. Review of applications will begin on January 15, 2012 and will continue until the position is filled. Early expressions of interest and inquiry are welcome.
Appointments will be for three years (renewed annually, subject to performance). The position comes with a competitive salary, health benefits, and funding for travel, computing and publications. Yale University is an affirmative action/equal opportunity employer. Applications from women and minority groups are particularly welcome.
