Postdoc. and Research Scientist in Star/Planet Formation and Astrochemistry (RIKEN)

    Postdoctoral positions or research-scientist positions are available in the group of Nami Sakai at RIKEN in Japan.  The group focuses on physical and chemical evolution of star/planet formation, as well as millimeter- and submillimeter-wave spectroscopy for molecules of astrochemical interests.  Successful candidates are expected to carry out a research on:star/disk/planet formation, and/or chemical processes in interstellar clouds, and/or millimeter- and submillimeter-wave spectroscopy for molecules of astrochemical interests under the leadership of the supervisor (laboratory experiment).  The candidates are encouraged to have fundamental knowledge of one of the research themes shown above and a strong interest to pursue them.  The candidates with research experience in interferometric astronomical-observations in radio wavelength, physical and/or chemical model calculations on star and planet forming regions, or experimental studies on millimeter/submillimeter-wave spectroscopy are particularly welcome.

    The candidate should have finished his/her doctoral thesis before taking up the position.  Japanese language skill is not mandatory.  A one-year fixed-term employment contract, renewable based on evaluation, to a maximum in which the employee completes 5 years of employment for the postdoctoral position case.  In the case of research scientist, the contract is renewable based on evaluation to a maximum of the end of the fiscal year (March 31) in which the employee completes 7 years of employment. RIKEN may adjust the above maximum period of renewability based on a) the employee's abilities, work load at the time of contract completion, performance and work attitude and b) the continuation of the employee’s center, laboratory or project and RIKEN’s management situation and budget at the time. (Note:Currently, budgets for 4 years employment are confirmed.)  The exact starting date of employment is flexible, but as early as possible (Negotiable, but no later than March 2020). 

    For the full and formal announcement including instructions on how to apply, please see the included link.

    http://www.riken.jp/en/careers/researchers/20180928_3/

**Note** The salary in the Pay Compensation section is rough estimates by using the rate of 1$~115JPY, and by excluding the commuting and housing allowances.  There are also various insurance systems.  Please see the "Related URLs" below.  The min salary is roughly ~38,900$/yr for the reserch scientist case, by excluding commuting and housing allowances.  The actual salary (min + ability/aptitude salary) will be decided based on applicant's ability, aptitude etc.