Postdoctoral Research Fellow in Cosmology with the Dark Energy Spectroscopic Instrument (DESI)

Submission Information
Publish Date: 
Thursday, October 25, 2018
Archive Date: 
Thursday, December 20, 2018
Job Summary
Job Category: 
Post-doctoral Positions and Fellowships
Institution Classification/Type: 
Large Academic
Institution/Company: 
Southern Methodist University
Street Line 1: 
3215 Daniel Ave Rm 102
City: 
Dallas
State/Province: 
TX
Zip/Postal: 
75205
Country: 
United States of America
Announcement
Job Announcement Text: 

The Cosmology and Astrophysics group at Southern Methodist University (SMU) has an immediate opening for an outstanding postdoctoral research fellow in cosmology with the Dark Energy Spectroscopic Instrument (DESI).

The successful applicant will carry out original research and play an important role in the analysis of DESI data. Opportunities to make substantial original contributions are high. DESI science includes a broad and exciting menu of measurements that will collectively provide the most sensitive probe of the expansion history of the universe over the redshift range 0<z<3.5. The successful applicant will also take a leading role in the deployment of DESI’s fast spectroscopic data reduction system, a substantial SMU responsibility required to ensure the survey reach its performance goals.

DESI is a next generation dark energy spectroscopic survey that will utilize robotically positioned fibers at the Mayall 4 m at Kitt Peak National Observatory. Ten new, fiber-fed, 3-arm spectrographs will cover 360 nm to 980 nm for 5000 targets per exposure. Over 5 years, more than 30 million galaxy spectra will be obtained for precise baryon acoustic oscillation (BAO) and a host of other astrophysical and cosmological measurements. The sensitivity of DESI relies on optimal performance of the spectrographs, fiber systems and a dynamic exposure time calculation. The fast spectroscopic reductions ensure their performance and will be an important element of DESI operations.

The Cosmology/Astrophysics group at SMU is actively engaged in science analysis preparations, including observational and calibration impacts on BAO measurements from emission line galaxies. The group is also involved in fast spectroscopic simulations and use of supernovae for cosmology. The wider SMU particle/astrophysics group pursues a diverse and vibrant research program including CMB cosmology, stellar astrophysics and dark matter searches (Simons Observatory, ROTSE, SuperCDMS), and experimental and theoretical particle physics (ATLAS, NOvA, CTEQ).

We seek a highly motivated applicant who has obtained, or is about to obtain, a Ph.D. in physics or astronomy or related fields. Experience with cosmology, galactic astronomy or spectroscopy is highly valued. Software development experience is a plus. The start date is negotiable and can occur immediately. The initial appointment is for 2 years with the possibility for a third year.

For further information, contact Prof. Robert Kehoe ([email protected]). Interested applicants should send a curriculum vitae, a list of publications resulting from significant contributions, a description of research interests and skills, and arrange for three letters of recommendation to be sent to Lacey Breaux at [email protected]. The position will remain open until filled, however applicants are strongly encouraged to submit all materials by December 1, 2018 to ensure full consideration.

SMU will not discriminate in any program or activity on the basis of race, color, religion, national origin, sex, age, disability, genetic information, veteran status, sexual orientation, or gender identity and expression. The Executive Directory for Access and Equity/Title IX Coordination is designated to handle inquiries regarding nondiscrimination policies and may be reached at the Perkins Administration Building, Room 204, 6425 Boaz Lane, Dallas, TX 75205, 214-768-3601, [email protected].

Application Deadline: 
Saturday, December 1, 2018
Selection Deadline: 
Monday, December 31, 2018
Current Status of Position: 
Accepting Applicants
Apply to Job
Attention To: 
Lacey Breaux
Title: 
Administrative Assistant
Institution/Company: 
Southern Methodist University
Department Name: 
Department of Physics
Street Line 1: 
3215 Daniel Ave Rm 102
City: 
Dallas
State/Province: 
TX
Zip/Postal Code: 
75205
Country: 
United States of America
Phone: 
214-768-2495
Inquiries About Job
Attention To: 
Lacey Breaux
Subject: 
Postdoc in Cosmology with DESI