Postdoctoral Position on the Observational Studies of Exoplanetary Atmospheres
The Astrophysics and Spaces Science section of the Jet Propulsion Laboratory (JPL) invites applications for one postdoctoral position on the observational studies of exoplanetary atmospheres.
With JWST’s revolutionary capabilities, we will soon be able to obtain spectroscopic observations of the exoplanets that receive stellar irradiance of approximately Earth’s, as well as the exoplanets that likely have a rocky composition. For example, Guest Observer programs in Cycle 1 will obtain the transmission spectra of the temperate sub-Neptunes K2-18 b and LHS 1140 b and provide the opportunity to study their atmospheric chemistry in depth and assess their potential habitability. JWST will also survey a handful of hotter, and likely rocky planets in the thermal infrared to determine their surface or atmospheric composition. These datasets provide an unprecedented opportunity to test the models of atmospheric evolution and retention, and eventually, inform the conditions to form Earth-like habitable planets.
The successful candidate will work at the forefront of exoplanet observations in collaboration with Dr. Renyu Hu, and is expected to extract high-level science results from multiple upcoming JWST programs. The postdoctoral fellow is also encouraged to leverage the team’s expertise in exoplanetary models to develop new science cases and observational techniques for future JWST cycles. This synergy between modeling and observations may result in a potential for groundbreaking discoveries.
The fellow will also have the support to interact broadly with planetary scientists and astrophysicists at both JPL and Caltech, and will fully benefit from the intellectual environment in both institutions.
Applicants with strong motivation and experience in conducting observational studies of exoplanet atmospheres are encouraged to apply. Relevant experience includes the science case development, data reduction, and high-level science analysis for the observations of exoplanets from space (e.g., Hubble, Spitzer, and Kepler) or from the ground, the observations of solar-system planets, as well as relevant data-intensive or instrumentation studies in astronomy. Knowledge of spectral retrieval or demonstrated experience in synergistically working with modelers and theorists is a plus. Scientists who are from minority groups underrepresented in astronomy are strongly encouraged to apply. A Ph.D. degree in Planetary Science, Astronomy, or a related field is required.
A start date in the fall of 2022 is desirable. The initial appointment is for one year, renewable up to 3 years contingent on funding and performance. Salary will be competitive and commensurate with experience.
JPL is an equal opportunity employer and all qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability status, protected veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by law. JPL is a VEVRAA Federal Contractor. For more information about "EEO is the Law" click here: http://www.eeoc.gov/employers/upload/eeoc_self_print_poster.pdf.
Applicants should submit a CV including a publication list, representative publications, and a cover letter that briefly describes research experience and achievements, future research interests, as well as how the candidate would support diversity and inclusion at JPL. The applications should also include the names and contact information of three references, and the reference letters will be requested for shortlisted candidates. The deadline for applications is March 18, 2022. Applications should be submitted via the JPL Career Website. Questions should be directed to Dr. Renyu Hu ([email protected]).