Postdoctoral Positions in Star Formation in Nearby Galaxies with PHANGS HST & JWST

The Space Telescope Science Institute (STScI) and Johns Hopkins University (JHU) invites applications for multiple postdoctoral researchers to work with Dr. Janice C. Lee (STScI), Dr. David Thilker (JHU) and the PHANGS collaboration in the area of star and cluster formation in nearby galaxies.  

The PHANGS collaboration has a tremendous wealth of incoming and recently obtained Hubble and JWST imaging for 74 nearby galaxies in over a dozen filters spanning from the near-UV to 21 microns, including narrowband H-alpha and Pa-alpha imaging.  The postdoc will become a member of the international PHANGS collaboration, which is using the combination of Hubble, JWST, ALMA and MUSE observations to study the star formation cycle at the molecular cloud and cluster scale, and its dependence on galactic environment.  The PHANGS research group in Baltimore is interested in studying massive star formation, star cluster formation and evolution, HII regions, star formation and gas clearing timescales, and exploring innovative methods of analysis with the PHANGS HST & JWST catalogs of ~100,000 star clusters and associations to gain new insight into the physics of star, cluster, and galaxy formation and evolution. 

Our new postdocs will fully participate in data processing and will lead high-impact science investigations for the collaboration.  Dr. Janice Lee is a member of the Habitable Worlds Observatory (HWO) Science, Technology, Architecture Review Team (START) and there may also be opportunities for our new postdocs to become involved in the advancement of the HWO concept. 

The nominal start date will be in Summer/Fall 2024, but we also are interested in candidates who are able to start as soon as possible.  These positions will be appointed for renewable one-year terms for up to three years, subject to satisfactory performance and continued availability of funding. 

We welcome inquiries about our postdoctoral positions at [email protected] and [email protected]. 

Applicants shall hold a Ph.D. degree in Astronomy, Physics, or related fields by the start of the position. Experience in one or more of the following areas is desirable: (a) data reduction (b) SED modeling (c) analysis of resolved star and star cluster population photometry. More important is the willingness to take on new projects, learn new skills, and work independently to bring these projects to fruition. 

The combination of the Space Telescope Science Institute and the Johns Hopkins Department of Physics and Astronomy make Baltimore one of the top centers for astronomy research in the world.  Successful applicants will benefit from a stimulating scientific environment rich in colloquia, journal clubs.  They will also have broad access to learning opportunities related to the missions supported by STScI (Hubble, JWST, and Roman). 

Applications must be submitted through this link:  https://stsci.slideroom.com/#/permalink/program/76692 

Applicants are requested to complete an on-line application through Slideroom.  The following materials will be requested in PDF format: a brief cover letter, a curriculum vitae, a list of publications, and a concise (1-3 page) statement of research interests, accomplishments, and relevant technical experience.  Complete applications received by January 31, 2024, will receive full consideration. In the application, please provide the names and email addresses of three people who can provide letters of reference. Reference letters will be requested after the first round of review. 

Questions regarding the application process can be sent directly to [email protected]. 

STScI and our research groups embrace the diversity of our staff as a strategic priority in creating a first-rate community. We reflect this deep dedication in strongly encouraging women, ethnic minorities, veterans, and disabled individuals to apply for these opportunities. Learn more about how we foster Diversity 

Inclusion- https://www.stsci.edu/opportunities/our-work/our-culture. 

As an Equal Opportunity and Affirmative Action Employer, STScI does not discriminate because of race, sex, color, age, religion, national origin, sexual orientation, lawful political affiliations, veteran status, or mental or physical handicap. Veterans, disabled or wounded warriors needing assistance with the employment process can contact us at [email protected].