Postdoctoral Scholar in Astronomy - PFS

The University of Notre Dame, Department of Physics & Astronomy, invites applications for a postdoctoral scholar position to begin in Fall 2023. The ideal candidate specializes in galactic archaeology, stellar spectroscopy, galactic chemical evolution, or spectroscopic surveys. The successful applicant will work with Professor Evan Kirby on the Subaru Prime Focus Spectrograph (PFS) survey. PFS is expected to commence survey operations in Spring 2024. The first semester of the postdoctoral position will focus on survey preparations, followed in subsequent years by data acquisition, analysis, and publication. The postdoc will enjoy privileged PFS data access and ample time to pursue independent research.

Notre Dame astronomers use a variety of telescopes, including Keck Observatory and the Large Binocular Telescope. Nuclear astrophysics is one of the key strengths of Notre Dame Physics. Astronomical observers, laboratory experimentalists, and theorists work together to answer fundamental questions about the nature of matter.

Qualifications include a PhD in physics, astronomy, or a related field, strong written and oral communication, and leadership qualities. Support is available for three years. Annual renewals are contingent upon performance. Base salary will be commensurate with experience.

A complete application includes a curriculum vitae with publications, a research statement, and three letters of reference. The research statement should address past research and how the applicant expects to use PFS and other Notre Dame resources. The statement should be approximately three to four pages. Applicants are encouraged to use additional pages to discuss their contributions toward and ambition for improving academic climates, such as efforts toward equity and inclusion. Applications received by December 16, 2022, will receive full consideration. Please contact Professor Evan Kirby with questions about the position.

The University of Notre Dame is located in South Bend, Indiana, and provides a family-friendly environment and affordable cost of living. The successful applicant will receive health care and benefits through Notre Dame's employee program (http://hr.nd.edu/benefits/). More information about being a postdoctoral scholar at Notre Dame can be found at http://postdocs.nd.edu.

The Department is committed to diversifying its faculty, staff, postdoctoral researchers, and students and encourages applications from women and members of traditionally underrepresented groups. Moreover, Notre Dame prohibits discrimination against veterans or disabled qualified individuals, and requires affirmative action by covered contractors to employ and advance veterans and qualified individuals with disabilities in compliance with 41 CFR 60-741.5(a) and 41 CFR 60-300.5(a).