Joint Princeton/Flatiron Postdoctoral Research Fellow in Computational Astrophysics

As part of an initiative in theoretical and computational astrophysics, the Department of Astrophysical Sciences at Princeton University is seeking candidates for a postdoctoral or more senior research position, to be offered jointly with the Center for Computational Astrophysics (CCA) at the Simons Foundation’s Flatiron Institute in New York City. The successful candidate will spend two years at Princeton followed by two years at Flatiron, with frequent visits to the other throughout the term of the fellowship, in order to engage in collaborative research across both institutions.

A listing of department members and activities in Astrophysical Sciences at Princeton University can be found at https://web.astro.princeton.edu/. A description of the research groups and members of the CCA can be found at https://www.simonsfoundation.org/flatiron/center-for-computational-astrophysics/. At Princeton, appointments would be made to the research staff at a level and salary commensurate with experience; this would be a one-year appointment renewable for the second year. At the CCA, the appointment would be as a Flatiron Research Fellow.

We are seeking highly motivated individuals with research interests in any field of astrophysics.  The successful candidate will work in computational astrophysics, developing and applying algorithms and codes for theoretical studies in astrophysics and/or for the analysis of large astronomical data sets, and working to apply these methods to obtain new scientific insights. The postdoctoral researcher is expected to carry out research programs independently and in collaboration with Princeton and CCA scientists, and to participate in the vibrant activities of both institutions, including seminars and workshops. They will have the opportunity to mentor students, and will have access to outstanding computing facilities at both institutions as well as a budget to support research and travel.

In order to be considered for this joint appointment, candidates must submit their application to BOTH institutions by November 4, 2019:

to Princeton at: https://www.princeton.edu/acad-positions/position/13681

and to CCA at: https://simonsfoundation.wd1.myworkdayjobs.com/simonsfoundationcareers/job/162-Fifth-Avenue/Flatiron-Research-Fellow--Center-for-Computational-Astrophysics--Joint-with-Princeton-University-_R0000543

Applications on the CCA site should include: a cv with bibliography; research statement describing past important results and proposed research program; and, three (3) letters of recommendation submitted confidentially by the letter writers to [email protected].

Applications on the Princeton site should include: a cv (not to exceed 2 pages excluding publications); and a research statement to include summaries of 2-3 completed/published studies, summary of ongoing work, and summary of proposed research (not to exceed 3 pages total including text, figures and references sited). The names and contact information of three references should be submitted through Princeton’s online application system. Letters of recommendation will also be handled through this site.

Review and selection of the successful candidate will be made by a joint Princeton/Flatiron committee. All applicants will automatically be considered for all postdoctoral positions in the Astrophysical Sciences department at Princeton and for the Flatiron Research Fellow positions at CCA; however, they should clearly state in the cover letter that they wish to be considered for the Joint Princeton/Flatiron Fellowship.

For further inquiries, contact [email protected] (Princeton) and/or [email protected] (CCA).

When submitting your applications, please read and follow the guidelines from AAS, which are available at: https://jobregister.aas.org/postdoc-application-guidelines.

Education

• A PhD in Astronomy or a related field is required.

Related Skills & Other Requirements

• Expertise in computational methods, data analysis, software and algorithm development, modeling, theoretical astrophysics, machine learning or scientific simulation.
• Ability to do original and outstanding research in astrophysics
• Ability to work well independently as well as in a collaborative team environment

The Simons Foundation’s Diversity Commitment:
Many of the greatest ideas and discoveries come from a diverse mix of minds, backgrounds and experiences, and we are committed to cultivating an inclusive work environment. The Simons Foundation provides equal opportunities to all employees and applicants for employment without regard to race, religion, color, age, sex, national origin, sexual orientation, gender identity, genetic disposition, neurodiversity, disability, veteran status or any other protected category under federal, state and local law.

Princeton University’s EEO statement and notice of background check:

This position is subject to the University’s background check policy. Princeton University is an equal opportunity employer and all qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to age, race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, national origin, disability status, protected veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by law.