Flatiron Research Fellow, Center for Computational Astrophysics

POSITION SUMMARY

Applications are invited for Flatiron Research Fellowships (FRF) at the Center for Computational Astrophysics (CCA). The CCA FRF program offers the opportunity for postdoctoral researchers to lead independent research programs in areas that have strong synergy with one or more of the existing research groups at CCA or other centers at the Flatiron Institute. In addition to carrying out an independent research program, Flatiron Research Fellows are expected to: disseminate their results through scientific publication or software release, collaborate with other members of the CCA or Flatiron Institute, and participate in the scientific life of the CCA and Flatiron Institute by attending seminars, colloquia, and group meetings. Flatiron Research Fellows may have the opportunity to organize workshops and to mentor graduate and undergraduate students.

The mission of the Flatiron Institute is to advance scientific research through computational methods, including data analysis, theory, modeling and simulation. It currently houses four science centers, focused on computational astrophysics (CCA), computational biology (CCB), computational mathematics (CCM), and computational quantum physics (CCQ), and a scientific computing core. CCA's mission is to create new computational methods, tools and frameworks that allow scientists to analyze big astronomical datasets and to understand complex, multi-scale physics in astrophysical systems ranging in scales from planets to the Universe. In 2021, CCA research groups will include Astronomical Data, Compact Objects, Galaxy Formation, Gravitational Wave Astronomy, Cosmology X Data Science, Planet Formation, and Dynamics. Please see https://www.simonsfoundation.org/flatiron/center-for-computational-astrophysics/ for a full description of the goals of the research groups and science staff. The CCA has formal or informal partnerships with The Simons Observatory, The Terra Hunting Experiment, Sloan Digital Sky Survey V, The Laser Interferometer Gravitational-Wave Observatory, and the NASA SPHEREx mission.

Application Materials:

• Cover letter (optional)
• Curriculum Vitae with bibliography
• Research statement of no more than three pages describing past work and proposed research program
• We encourage applicants, as a component of their research statement to discuss their broader impact on the field
• Three (3) letters of recommendation submitted confidentially by the letter writers to [email protected]
• Applicants should follow the detailed guidelines at https://jobregister.aas.org/postdoc-application-guidelines.

Deadline: All application materials (including letters) must be received by October 15, 2020.
Selection Criteria: Applicants must have a PhD in a related field or expect to receive their PhD before the start of the appointment. Applications will be evaluated based on 1) past research accomplishments 2) proposed research program 3) synergy of applicant’s expertise and research proposal topic with existing CCA staff and research programs.

Related Skills

• Expertise in computational methods, data analysis, software and algorithm development, modeling, theoretical astrophysics, machine learning or scientific simulation.
• Ability to do original and outstanding research in astrophysics
• Ability to work well independently as well as in a collaborative team environment

FRF positions are two-year appointments and are generally renewed for a third year, contingent on performance. FRF receive a research budget and have access to the Flatiron Institute’s powerful scientific computing resources. FRF may be eligible for subsidized housing within walking distance of the CCA. The anticipated start dates for these positions will be between July and October 2021.

THE SIMONS FOUNDATION'S DIVERSITY COMMITMENT

Many of the greatest ideas and discoveries come from a diverse mix of minds, backgrounds and experiences, and we are committed to cultivating an inclusive work environment. The Simons Foundation provides equal opportunities to all employees and applicants for employment without regard to race, religion, color, age, sex, national origin, sexual orientation, gender identity, genetic disposition, neurodiversity, disability, veteran status, or any other protected category under federal, state and local law.