Postdoctoral Associate, Observational Astrophysics and Computational Science, Kavli Institute for Astrophysics and Space Research

Submission Information
Publish Date: 
Friday, February 26, 2021
Archive Date: 
Friday, July 16, 2021
Job Summary
Job Category: 
Post-doctoral Positions and Fellowships
Institution Classification/Type: 
Large Academic
Institution/Company: 
Massachusetts Institute of Technology
Department Name: 
Kavli Institute for Astrophysics and Space Research
City: 
Cambridge
State/Province: 
MA
Zip/Postal: 
02139
Country: 
United States of America
Announcement
Job Announcement Text: 

Job Description

Postdoctoral Associate, Observational Astrophysics and Computational Science, Kavli Institute for Astrophysics and Space Research, to work in the areas of observational astrophysics and computational science related to exoplanets and transient astrophysics under the direction of Dr. George Ricker, the PI of MIT-led Transiting Exoplanet Survey Satellite (TESS) and participate in the discovery team assessing the scientific data from TESS.

TESS is well on its way to discovering thousands of exoplanets in orbit around the brightest stars in the sky. This first-ever spaceborne all-sky transit survey of the solar neighborhood is identifying planets ranging from Earth- to Jupiter-sized, orbiting stars with stellar types and temperatures spanning a wide range. Many of these TESS planets are likely to be targets for JWST observations. The full frame images from TESS are providing precise photometry of more than 300 million stars and galaxies during its survey. Its exquisite photometric stability and sensitivity enables detection of a broad range of astrophysical transients, including cataclysmic variables, novae and supernovae, tidal disruption events, and addressing topics in multi-messenger astronomy.

The MKI team includes students, postdocs, and other researchers studying exoplanets, stellar and galactic astronomy, and high energy astrophysics. MkI is a partner in the twin 6.5-m Magellan telescopes and the incumbent will be encouraged to propose for MKI time on the telescopes.

Position Requirements

PhD in astrophysics, astronomy, or a closely related field of physics or computational science; experience with standard astronomical data analysis packages, computer languages, and operating systems commonly used in astronomy. Preferred: interest in large datasets, including development and application of AI and deep learning methods; and experience in observational or computational astronomy.

In addition to applying online via the MIT Careers site, applicants should submit a single PDF containing CV, publications list, and a brief research statement (no more than 4 pages), and arrange to have three letters of reference sent to Mr. Alexander Rudat ([email protected]). Questions may be directed to Dr. Ricker ([email protected]).

Review of applications will begin immediately and continue until the position is filled. The anticipated start date is nominally Fall 2021, with the appointment being for one year, renewable annually depending on performance and funding, likely lasting for 2 - 3 years.

Application Deadline: 
Wednesday, June 30, 2021
Selection Deadline: 
Saturday, July 31, 2021
Current Status of Position: 
Accepting Applicants
Apply to Job
Attention To: 
Mr. Alexander Rudat
Institution/Company Job ID or Reference Code: 
19324
Inquiries About Job
Attention To: 
Dr. George Ricker
Subject: 
TESS Postdoctoral Search