Applications are invited for a postdoctoral researcher to work with Professor Joshua Pepper on exoplanets and transit surveys. The position will principally involve identification and characterization of transiting exoplanets from the KELT transit survey, and will also include work on variable stars, and other transient phenomena. The successful candidate will participate in many aspects of the project, including: identifying transit candidates, measuring the properties of the discovered systems, data management, software development, follow-up observations (photometry and spectroscopy), and interpretation of the data. The candidate will collaborate extensively with current members of the KELT team at Ohio State, Vanderbilt, and other institutions, and will have the opportunity to pursue their own research projects as well.
The candidate should have extensive experience with the Linux work environment and Linux-based development in C/C++ or Python with a focus on algorithms and statistics, and a background in areas such as exoplanets, time-series photometry, data reduction, and/or astronomical surveys. We especially seek applicants with experience working with large photometric datasets and a willingness to work with and assist in advising graduate and undergraduate students.
The applicant must have a PhD in astronomy, physics or a related field by the date of appointment. The appointment is for three years, renewed annually subject to performance, and can begin as early as June 2013. Salary and benefits are competitive, and will include funding for travel, computing, and publications.
Applications must include 1) a curriculum vitae including list of publications, 2) a statement of the applicant's past and current research experience, up to 3 pages long, and 3) three letters of recommendation. The CV and research statement should be in PDF format, and materials should be sent directly to jap612@lehigh.edu, by March 15, 2013. Early expressions of interest and inquiries are welcome.
Lehigh University is an affirmative action/equal opportunity employer and does not discriminate on the basis of age, color, disability, gender, gender identity, genetic information, marital status, national or ethnic origin, race, religion, sexual orientation, or veteran status.
