Postdoc in Exoplanetary/Substellar and/or Time-domain Astronomy

Prof. Stanimir Metchev at the Western University Department of Physics & Astronomy and the Institute for Earth and Space Exploration, Canada, invites applications for a Postdoctoral Associate. Two areas of expertise are sought. Applicants with qualifications in either or both areas are invited to apply:

1. Exoplanetary or brown dwarf astrophysics. The successful applicant will lead aspects of the science preparation, notably the characterization of nearby ultra-cool dwarfs, for a proposed transit-exoplanet micro-satellite mission for the Canadian Space Agency: POET (Photometric Observations of Extrasolar Transits). Background in precision photometry, spectroscopy, or time series analysis would be advantageous.
2. Time-domain astronomy and robotic observatories. The successful applicant will lead science operations on three 0.5m robotic telescopes equipped with rapid-imaging cameras for stellar occultation or transiting exoplanet observations. Strong computer programming expertise is required. Experience with hardware/software interfacing, systems automation, or data management would be advantageous.

The candidate will be expected to actively pursue additional ground- or space-based observations in support of one or both programs. Further opportunities for collaboration with Metchev's team exist in the fields of brown dwarfs, exoplanets, circumstellar debris disks, or solar system astronomy. Western University has access to all Canadian national telescopes, including Gemini, the CFHT, ALMA, and a slew of 1-2 metre-class telescopes. Metchev's team also uses JWST, TESS, Hubble, NOAO and ESO telescopes, and the NASA/IRTF.

Remuneration is CA$60,000 per year. The start date is flexible, preferably no later than October 1, 2022. The appointment will be for up to three years, contingent on annual progress reviews and availability of funds. Candidates must have a doctoral degree in Astronomy, Planetary Science, or a related field. Candidates should submit a curriculum vitae, a 2-3-page statement of research experience and interests, and the names of three references directly to Prof. Metchev.