Postdoctoral Research Associate in Gamma-Ray Astronomy

The Department of Physics and Astronomy at the University of Utah has an immediate opening for a Research Associate in the field of experimental/observational Very High Energy (VHE) gamma-ray astronomy. The Gamma-Ray Astrophysics Research Group at the University of Utah uses the VERITAS and HAWC observatories to study of the high-energy astrophysical phenomena from both Galactic and extragalactic sources in collaboration with satellite-borne observatories (FERMI, Swift), as well as gravitational-wave and high-energy neutrino observatories (LIGO, ICECUBE). The Utah gamma-ray group is a leader in the development of Stellar Intensity interferometry for the imaging of nearby bright stars at optical wavelengths and in the design and commissioning of a wide field-of-view prototype Schwartzschild-Couder Telescope (pSCT) for the future CTA gamma-ray observatory. The University of Utah is located in scenic Salt Lake City, adjacent to staggering mountain vistas, world class outdoor recreation, and a vibrant arts and culture scene bolstered by a metro population of over 1 million people.

The successful candidate will participate in the multiwavelength analysis of VERITAS/HAWC observations of Galactic VHE sources, including diffuse, extended sources, and periodic sources (High Mass X-ray binaries). The candidate may also participate in the development and commissioning of the VERITAS Stellar Intensity Interferometer, or the NSF-MRI funded upgrade to the pSCT camera. The work will be performed in close collaborations with colleagues in the VERITAS, HAWC, FERMI, CTA and VERITAS-SII collaborations. The applicant will be expected to take required observation shifts at the VERITAS and/or HAWC observatory.

Applicants must have earned a PhD in Physics, Astronomy, or a related field by the time of their appointment to the position. The ideal applicant will have experience in the analysis of high-energy astrophysics data and strong software development skills. Experience with experimental astrophysics instrumentation is a strong asset. The initial position is for two years, but may be extended based upon availability of funding and mutual agreement.

Applications should be submitted directly to Prof. David Kieda, [email protected]. The application should include a cover letter (describing how the candidate’s background matches the job qualifications), a statement of interest (explaining scientific goals of the applicant), and a current CV including a list of publications. At least two letters of reference should be sent directly to Prof. Kieda at the email listed above. Applicants and references are requested to include the phrase “UU Gamma-Ray Postdoc” in the subject of the email. Applications will continue to be accepted until the position is filled.

The University of Utah is an Affirmative Action/Equal Opportunity employer and does not discriminate based upon race, national origin, color, religion, sex, age, sexual orientation, gender identity/expression, status as a person with a disability, genetic information, or Protected Veteran status. Individuals from historically underrepresented groups, such as minorities, women, qualified persons with disabilities and protected veterans are encouraged to apply. Veterans’ preference is extended to qualified applicants, upon request and consistent with University policy and Utah state law. Upon request, reasonable accommodations in the application process will be provided to individuals with disabilities. To inquire about the University’s nondiscrimination or affirmative action policies or to request disability accommodation, please contact: Director, Office of Equal Opportunity and Affirmative Action, 201 S. Presidents Circle, Rm 135, (801) 581-8365. The University of Utah values candidates who have experience working in settings with students from diverse backgrounds, and possess a strong commitment to improving access to higher education for historically underrepresented students.