Postdoctoral research associate for HETDEX in Missouri S&T


Applications are invited for a postdoctoral research associate position at Missouri University of Science and Technology (S&T) in Rolla, MO in the USA. The position has a particular emphasis on the Hobby-Eberly Telescope Dark Energy Experiment (HETDEX, http://hetdex.org), working closely with Dr. Shun Saito and other staff of the Physics Department. 

The department at S&T is establishing a new astrophysics group where Dr. Saito (cosmology) and Prof. Marco Cavaglia (gravitational wave) join as faculty members in January 2019. Dr. Saito’s group will participate officially in the Hobby-Eberly Telescope Dark Energy Experiment (HETDEX) collaboration, and his main interest is Lyman-alpha emission intensity mapping in HETDEX and its cosmological interpretation. 

The successful applicant is expected to be heavily involved in HETDEX. HETDEX is a unique spectroscopic survey that will map the evolution of Dark Energy using Lyman-alpha emitting galaxies in the high redshift universe (1.9<z<3.5). The survey instrument, VIRUS, has 78 IFUs distributed across the field of the upgraded 10-m HET. Each exposure gathers 35k spectra in an unbiased manner which is an essential and unique feature for intensity mapping analysis. The instrument is currently undergoing the late phases of deployment and commissioning and early survey operations started in 2017. 

During 50% of his/her time, the postdoc will support core activities of HETDEX, such as data processing, calibration analysis, data quality control and assistance with data releases, working closely with the HETDEX data analysis team. Depending on experience, the postdoc may also assist with the development of the data analysis pipeline software. For the rest of his/her time, the postdoc will pursue their own scientific interests with the HETDEX data. Contributing to the intensity mapping analysis is encouraged but not required. 

We seek a highly motivated applicant who has obtained or is about to obtain, a Ph.D. in physics, astronomy, or related fields. Proven experience in one modern programming language is a requirement for this position. Proficiency in C++ and Python and previous experience with spectroscopic data and the management of large astronomical datasets are strong assets. Additional experience such as analysis of cosmological simulations will be appreciated, but not strongly required. 

The position is initially for 2 (1+1) years with possible extension, depending on availability of funding. The starting date is negotiable and can occur immediately after the deadline. To apply, please send a single PDF file which includes a current CV, publication list, and a brief statement of research interests to [email protected], and please arrange for 3 reference letters to be sent directly to the same email address. 

Missouri S&T is an AA/EEO employer and does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, national origin, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, age, disability or status as a protected veteran. Females, minorities, and persons with disabilities are encouraged to apply. The university participates in E-Verify. For more information on E-Verify, please contact DHS at 1-888-464-4218.