Postdoctoral Researchers in Galaxy Evolution Theory

We invite applications for two postdoctoral fellows/assistant research scientists in galaxy evolution at the Johns Hopkins University in Baltimore, MD. The successful applicant will work with Drs. Jason Tumlinson and Molly Peeples at JHU's Center for Astrophysical Sciences (CAS) and the Space Telescope Science Institute (STScI), and with their network of collaborators.

Our research group is currently focused on using cosmological hydrodynamic simulations to understand the co-evolution of galaxies and their gaseous and stellar halos. One opening is specifically for using the simulations for galactic stellar halo modeling in the context of NASA’s forthcoming WFIRST mission. The second position is for using the simulations for tracing high-redshift galaxy evolution with an eye towards JWST predictions.

We employ a combination of hydrodynamic simulations, analytic modeling, and comparisons to observation. The open positions are targeted at a junior scientists with primarily theoretical backgrounds, including numerical simulations, but we are especially interested in applicants with an interest in creating mock observations and interpreting real ones. We welcome applicants with interests in all areas of theoretical studies of galaxy evolution. Time will be available for independent research or new projects in related areas.

The nominal start date is September 2020, with an initial appointment of two years and an expected renewal of up to three years, subject to satisfactory performance and the availability of funds.  The competitive starting salary depends on year of PhD and level of expertise and includes a relocation package.  Benefits are included (health insurance, life insurance, and retirement) at the faculty level for JHU.  The postdocs will also have full access to the postdoctoral career mentoring program based at STScI. We especially welcome applications from women, minorities, veterans, LGBTQ+ people, and other members of underrepresented groups. Questions about the position should be directed to [email protected] and [email protected].

Requirements:  Applicants must hold a Ph.D. degree in astronomy or a related field. Expertise in one or more of the following areas is desirable: (a) hydrodynamic physics and simulations (in any modern code framework, not only AMR), (b) galaxy evolution, (c) the circumgalactic medium, (d) stellar halos and populations, and (e) connecting synthetic data to observations.

Please email a single PDF to [email protected] and [email protected] with the following information:

1) a cover letter indicating interest in the position and including a list of references;

2) a curriculum vitae, including a list of publications;

3) a summary of previous and current research (limited to three pages total, including references);

4) a summary of proposed research, limited to 3 pages text plus 2 pages references/figures.

Applicants must also arrange for at least three confidential letters of reference to be emailed to [email protected] and [email protected].  Applications received by Friday, December 6, 2019 will be given full consideration, but applications will be accepted until the position is filled.

The Johns Hopkins University is an affirmative action/equal opportunity employer and welcomes applications from women and members of underrepresented groups.