Applications are invited for a postdoctoral position in the Joint Institute for Nuclear Astrophysics at Michigan State University (MSU) to work with Dr. Brian O'Shea in the MSU Astronomy & Astrophysics group on the study of galactic chemical evolution. The primary emphasis of this position will be to develop and employ semi-analytic chemical evolution models coupled to N-body cosmological simulations that will be used to study nucleosynthesis using the SDSS SEGUE database and other surveys of metal-poor stars in the Galactic halo. The appointee will also be strongly encouraged to pursue his or her research interests.
The Joint Institute for Nuclear Astrophysics (http://www.jinaweb.org/) is a multi-university, interdisciplinary NSF Physics Frontier Center and the successful applicant will have the opportunity to interact regularly with astronomers/astrophysicists and nuclear physicists at Michigan State University and at JINA affiliated institutions in the US and abroad.
The MSU Astronomy & Astrophysics group has faculty whose interests include galaxy clusters, galaxy formation and evolution, quasars, star formation, variable stars, compact objects and nuclear burning, and globular clusters. MSU is a member of the Sloan Digital Sky Survey and the Joint Institute for Nuclear Astrophysics, and a partner in the SOAR 4.1 meter optical/NIR telescope. Please see http://www.pa.msu.edu/astro/ for more information. MSU is also home of the National Superconducting Cyclotron Laboratory and the Facility for Rare Isotope Beams, with a vibrant program in experimental and theoretical nuclear astrophysics (see http://www.nscl.msu.edu/scientists/research/areas/nuclear-astrophysics ).
Candidates must possess a PhD in physics, astronomy, or a related field at the time of appointment. The position might be suitable for candidates with a background in astrophysics or in nuclear physics. The appointment is initially for one year, with the possibility of extensions to up to a total of three years. The expected start date is August 2013, though funds are available immediately and an earlier start date is also possible.
Interested candidates should send (by email): (1) a curriculum vitae; (2) list of publications; (3) a brief statement of research interests; and (4) arrange for letters of recommendation sent by three professional scientists familiar with the candidate's research. Please email all inquiries and applications to Dr. Brian O'Shea, oshea@msu.edu. The position will remain open until filled, though applications received by February 1, 2013 will receive first consideration.
MSU is an Affirmative Action/Equal Opportunity Employer. MSU is committed to achieving excellence through cultural diversity. The university actively encourages applications and/or nominations of women, persons of color, veterans and person with disabilities.
