Postdoctoral research position in observational astrophysics

The Monterey Institute for Research in Astronomy invites applications for a Postdoctoral Research Associate position in observational astrophysics.  This is a full-time position, for up to three years, contingent on performance.

MIRA is an independent professional observatory dedicated to research and education in astronomy.  The primary research facility is the Bernard M. Oliver Observing Station at 5,000-foot elevation within the Los Padres National Forest.  It enjoys dark skies and sub-arcsecond median seeing.  The 36-inch computer-controlled telescope is equipped with a dual-port spectrograph with resolutions from 250 to 20000, a moderate-resolution echelle spectrograph, a 2Kx2K direct imager, and a wide-field grism spectrograph, all using back-illuminated CCDs.  There is also a simultaneous spectroscopy-photometry capability.  A high-resolution fiber-fed echelle spectrograph is under development.  Ample observing time is available.

The Richard Hamming Astronomy Center in Marina, California includes electronic and machine shops, an extensive library, offices, a well-equipped student observatory, and computer facilities.  Current research areas include observational and theoretical stellar atmospheres and envelopes; variable stars; asteroids, including near-earth objects; comets and their trails; star formation and classification; and gravitational lenses.  

The successful applicant will conduct independent research and collaborate with other MIRA astronomers on current research and instrumentation development.  Of particular interest are candidates with capabilities in observational stellar astrophysics.  A candidate is expected to have received their Ph.D. in astronomy or a closely-related field before appointment.  Candidates with strong experience and publication records in relevant research areas with less than a Ph.D. will be considered.

Applicants should submit a cover letter, curriculum vitae, publication list, a brief summary of current and previous research, a statement of future research interests,  technical and scientific qualifications that make the candidate suitable for this position, and a list of three references. The starting date is negotiable.