Postdoctoral Research in Galactic/Extragalactic Astronomy

The Department of Physics & Astronomy at the University of Utah invites applications for a postdoctoral researcher to collaborate with Professor Gail Zasowski on projects related to Milky Way and Local Group chemistry, dynamics, and evolution; disk galaxy evolution; and understanding the Milky Way and Local Group in a broad galactic context. Motivated candidates with research experience in these topics, especially via the use of stellar photometry, stellar or integrated-light spectroscopy, or theoretical simulations of galactic chemistry and dynamics are particularly encouraged to apply. The postdoctoral researcher will have significant opportunity for independent related research.

The University of Utah is a large, R1 research university that is an institutional member of SDSS-V. The Physics & Astronomy Department hosts about 10 astronomy faculty, whose research spans planet formation to galactic astronomy and cosmology. Other local resources include the Center for High-Performance Computing and SCI, an interdisciplinary research institute focusing on data analysis and visualization. Salt Lake City is a large metropolitan area renowned for its natural beauty, proximity to numerous state and national parks, and diversity of recreational and cultural options.

Applicants should have a Ph.D. in physics, astronomy, or closely related field by the time of appointment, which is negotiable but nominally around September 1, 2023. The initial appointment will be for two years, plus one additional year contingent on funding availability and performance. The position provides a salary of $58,000 per year, a flexible research fund, benefits, and relocation expenses. The University can sponsor J-1 or H-1b visas for non-US citizens.

To apply, please prepare a single PDF containing a cover letter, a three-page statement of research experience and future plans, a CV, and a publication list (can be included in the CV). Then, fill out this application form by 8 Dec 2022: https://forms.gle/Xn2KCfF5fUWrm1ut6, which contains a prompt to upload the single PDF. Reference letters for a subset of applicants will be requested by the end of the year. Any questions (and materials, if there is difficulty accessing the form) should be sent to Dr. Zasowski at [email protected].

Additional postdoctoral research positions at Utah are also open, to collaborate with Dr. Tanmoy Laskar on time-domain astronomy and with Dr. Yao-Yuan Mao on extragalactic astronomy and galaxy surveys. Furthermore, there is a concurrent search for multiple faculty positions in multi-messenger astrophysics. You can find the application instructions to these positions in separate job advertisements.

The University of Utah values candidates who have experience working in settings with students from diverse backgrounds and possess a strong commitment to improving access to higher education for historically underrepresented students.

Individuals from historically underrepresented groups, such as minorities, women, qualified persons with disabilities and protected veterans are encouraged to apply. Veterans’ preference is extended to qualified applicants, upon request and consistent with University policy and Utah state law. Upon request, reasonable accommodations in the application process will be provided to individuals with disabilities.

The University of Utah is an Affirmative Action/Equal Opportunity employer and does not discriminate based upon race, ethnicity, color, religion, national origin, age, disability, sex, sexual orientation, gender, gender identity, gender expression, pregnancy, pregnancy-related conditions, genetic information, or protected veteran’s status. The University does not discriminate on the basis of sex in the education program or activity that it operates, as required by Title IX and 34 CFR part 106. The requirement not to discriminate in education programs or activities extends to admission and employment. Inquiries about the application of Title IX and its regulations may be referred to the Title IX Coordinator, to the Department of Education, Office for Civil Rights, or both.

To request a reasonable accommodation for a disability or if you or someone you know has experienced discrimination or sexual misconduct including sexual harassment, you may contact the Director/Title IX Coordinator in the Office of Equal Opportunity and Affirmative Action:

Director/ Title IX Coordinator

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Salt Lake City, UT 84112

801-581-8365

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