Circumgalactic and Interstellar Medium Postdoctoral Researcher #25100

Applications are invited for a postdoctoral research position at the Space Telescope Science Institute. The successful applicant will work with Dr. Joshua Peek on studies of the Milky Way’s circumgalacitic medium (CGM) and gaseous disk-halo interface. The successful applicant would be encouraged to pursue their own research agenda as well as work on a project focused on comparing new HST/COS observations of halo stars with archival observations of quasars to study the Milky Way’s CGM. The successful applicant could also work on various related projects: studying the disk-halo interface with COS, devising new metrics for the CGM using multiple sightlines, and examining CGM and ISM simulations in the context of the data. Which of these projects an applicant works on will be based on discussions and reflect their skills and interests.

The postdoc would work closely with a broader group working on this project, including Profs. Mary Putman (Columbia U) and Jessica Werk (U Washington), as well as Dr. Yong Zheng (UC Berkeley). The postdoc would have access to other members of the ISM@STScI group (e.g., Drs. Martha Boyer, Karl Gordon, Karoline Gilbert, and Julia Roman-Duval), who have broad scientific interests centered on the interstellar medium, from dust producing stars to the gas and dust in the interstellar and circumgalactic medium. Finally, the postdoc would be encouraged to work with members of the broader STScI Low-Density Universe group (including Drs. Molly Peeples, Andrew Fox, and Jason Tumlinson) who focus on the circumgalactic media of the Milky Way and similar galaxies. Independent research in related areas will be encouraged and supported at the 50% level pending satisfactory progress on the funding projects.

The successful applicants will benefit from the career mentoring program at STScI, interactions with the Johns Hopkins University research staff, and a stimulating work environment rich in colloquia, journal clubs, symposia, and learning opportunities related to the missions supported by STScI (HST, JWST, WFIRST, and MAST).
Applicants must hold a Ph.D. degree in Astronomy, Physics, Planetary Science, or related fields at the start of the post-doctoral researcher position. Research experience in any of the following is desirable: UV spectroscopy, CGM studies, ISM studies, hydrodynamic galaxy simulations, numerical methods, statistics. Expertise in interstellar dust, ground-based spectroscopy, or statistics is a plus.

The position is for two years, with a possible renewal for a third year. The nominal start date is summer/fall 2019 but earlier start dates may be possible. STScI, located on Johns Hopkins University Campus in Baltimore, Maryland, offers an excellent benefit package (including comprehensive healthcare and paid parental leave), competitive salaries, and a stimulating work environment. STScI’s pay for postdoctoral researchers is commensurate to the year of Ph.D. We especially welcome applications from women, minorities, veterans, LBGTQ+ people, and other members of underrepresented groups.

Prospective applicants should complete an on-line application through:

https://stsci.slideroom.com/#/permalink/program/46735

The following materials are requested in a single PDF file: a brief cover letter detailing your research interests and relevant expertise, a curriculum vitae, a list of publications, and a summary of previous and current research (limited to 3 pages). Complete applications received by January 2, 2019, will receive full consideration. Also, applicants should arrange for three confidential letters of reference. Reference letters should be submitted by January 11, 2019 via the on-line application system.

Questions regarding the application process can be sent directly to [email protected].
STScI sees the diversity of our staff as a strategic priority in our desire to create a first-rate scientific community. We reflect that deep commitment in strongly encouraging women, minorities, veterans and disabled individuals to apply for these opportunities. As an Equal Opportunity and Affirmative Action Employer, STScI does not discriminate because of race, sex, color, age, religion, national origin, sexual orientation, lawful political affiliations, veteran status, or mental or physical handicap. Veterans, disabled or wounded warriors needing assistance with the employment process can contact us at [email protected].