Postdoc Position in Observational Cosmology with LSST Dark Energy Science Collaboration

Applications are invited for a postdoctoral position in the Physics Department at Stanford University with a focus on preparing for and contributing to the commissioning phase of Rubin Observatory.  We seek applicants with a background in observational cosmology or astronomy, who are highly motivated to work at the “pixel level” to optimize the investigation of dark energy with the Rubin Legacy Survey of Space and Time (LSST) in the context of the LSST Dark Energy Science Collaboration (DESC).  The successful candidate will work on the development and testing of algorithms and software needed to pursue precise and accurate cosmological studies using weak lensing, quantitative assessment of potential biases (e.g., in photometric redshift or cosmic shear estimators), and the development of solutions to meet the stringent requirements for tomographic cosmic shear analyses.  Depending on the interests of the candidate, the work could focus on atmospheric, optical, or detector effects, or challenges due to the impacts of blended objects on source detection and measurement.

Strong computational abilities and experience with instrument commissioning and/or pipeline design and development are highly desired.  Ability to work well in a collaborative project and clearly document results is critical. The successful candidate will benefit from interactions with scientists at the SLAC National Accelerator Laboratory. Opportunities will exist to work with the LSST camera team on camera test data, along with the possibility to prepare for and participate in other aspects of Rubin Observatory commissioning.

The Stanford/SLAC Kavli Institute for Particle Astrophysics and Cosmology provides a stimulating intellectual environment for interactions with scientists pursuing observational, experimental, computational, and theoretical research relevant to the exploration of dark energy with LSST, as well as DES, DESI and CMB collaborations.

Candidates must have a Ph.D. in physics or astrophysics. The position is available as early as August 1, 2021.  Applicants are strongly encouraged to submit applications before July 1, 2021.

Interested applicants should submit a curriculum vitae and statement of research interests using Academic Jobs Online: https://academicjobsonline.org/ajo/jobs/18741

In addition, applicants should arrange for three or more letters of recommendation to be submitted by the reference writers through the Academic Jobs Online website.

Stanford University is an affirmative action and equal opportunity employer, committed to increasing the diversity of its workforce. It welcomes applications from women, members of minority groups, veterans, persons with disabilities, and others who would bring additional dimensions to the university's research and teaching mission.