Astronomers and planetary scientists are invited to apply for a postdoctoral research position to work on exoplanetary science with Prof. Zach Berta-Thompson and his research group in the Department of Astrophysical and Planetary Sciences at the University of Colorado Boulder. In this position, you will conduct research related to exoplanet atmospheres, with a focus on multiwavelength observations of transiting planets and/or the stars that illuminate them. You will contribute to the development of a robust, friendly, open-source Python package for precise spectrophotometry from space- and ground-based telescopes, and to exploring the composition and evolution of planetary atmospheres across planet mass and environment. New ideas and research proposals related to exoplanets, stars, and/or precise spectrophotometry are also encouraged.
You can expect to collaborate with a group of scientists that will celebrate strengths, value diverse perspectives, and work to ensure an equitable scholarly experience for all. You will have access to the SDSS-V collaboration, the ARC 3.5m and 0.5m telescopes at Apache Point Observatory, the Las Cumbres Observatory global telescope network, and a large community of astronomers and planetary scientists.
Preferred qualifications include experience with time-series and/or spectroscopic analysis, familiarity with scientific coding, and kindness. Applicants should have a PhD in astronomy, planetary science, or related field at the start of the position. The start date is flexible, ranging from late fall 2020 to fall 2021. The appointment will be for an initial period of two years, with renewal for a third year contingent upon satisfactory progress. The position includes a competitive salary, research/travel funds, access to telescope and supercomputing facilities, and significant flexibility to account for the ongoing coronavirus pandemic.
Please apply at https://jobs.colorado.edu/jobs/JobDetail/?jobId=26030. You will be asked to upload (1) a cover letter explaining your interest in this position, (2) a CV that includes all relevant experience and a list of publications, and (3) a brief [up to 3 pages] statement of your scholarly interests and how you would contribute to a research program on exoplanet atmospheres, which may also optionally include past/present/future work toward making academia more inclusive and just. You will also be asked to enter contact information for three references, and we will request letters of recommendation immediately upon application. Complete applications received by November 13, 2020 will receive full consideration. (This date was pushed back from October 15 because we were slow to respond to several questions from applicants.) Questions can be directed to Zach Berta-Thompson.
The University of Colorado Boulder is committed to building a culturally diverse community of faculty, staff, and students dedicated to contributing to an inclusive campus environment. We are an Equal Opportunity employer, including veterans and individuals with disabilities.