Postdoctural Research Position, Caltech High Energy Astrophysics (Theory)

Postdoctoral Research Position, Caltech High Energy Astrophysics (Theory)

Applications are invited for a post-doctoral research position at the California Institute of Technology to work with Dr. Javier Garcia and Prof. Fiona Harrison on the modeling of the X-ray polarization reflection spectrum from accretion disks around black holes. The main project, which is developed in collaboration with Prof. Henric Krawczynski (WUSTL), consists of extending our reflection code XILLVER to include the polarization of the reflected X-ray spectrum, and its integration with ray tracing codes to include relativistic effects. These models are expected to play a role in the interpretation of observational data from future X-ray polarization missions such as the Imaging X-ray Polarimetry Explorer (IXPE, https://ixpe.msfc.nasa.gov/). In addition, a fraction of the time is expected to be invested in analyzing observational data taken with the Nuclear Spectroscopic Telescope Array (NuSTAR) high energy X-ray telescope (http://www.nustar.caltech.edu).

The initial appointment will be for two years with the possibility of renewal for a third year based on satisfactory performance and availability of funding. Candidates with strong computational background, particularly in polarization and/or radiative transfer calculations, are especially encouraged to apply. The expected starting date is September 1, 2021, but earlier dates are possible. Candidates must have a Ph.D. in Physics or Astronomy by the date of appointment.

Applicants should send a CV; a brief research statement outlining their knowledge and experience; a cover letter stating their motivation for engaging in this project; and three reference letters to be sent directly to [email protected]. Applications received by February 21, 2021 will receive full consideration, but applications will be accepted until the position is filled.

We are an equal opportunity employer and all qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to age, race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, or national origin, disability status, protected veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by law. Caltech is a VEVRAA Federal Contractor. To read more about Equal Employment Opportunity (EEO) go to https://www.eeoc.gov/employees-job-applicants.