Postdoctoral Associate in Astrophysics

The MIT Kavli Institute for Astrophysics and Space Research (MKI) seeks a postdoctoral associate for observational research on clusters of galaxies with emphasis on AGN feedback and the astrophysics of the intracluster medium (ICM).

The successful applicant will work under the direction of Prof. Michael McDonald.  The interests of his research group include the physics and evolution of the ICM, the role that AGN feedback plays in this evolution, the co-evolution of galaxies and their environments, and the optical/IR and X-ray properties of distant SZ- and IR-selected galaxy clusters. The ideal applicant would primarily use data from the Chandra X-ray Observatory alongside supporting, multiw-avelength data from a variety of other space- and ground-based telescopes.
 
The successful applicant will be encouraged to pursue independent research projects and to collaborate with other researchers at MKI.  MKI is a partner in the twin 6.5-m Magellan telescopes, which boast an array of world-class optical and infrared instruments, and hosts active science teams for the Advanced CCD Imaging Spectrometer (ACIS) and High-Energy Transmission Grating (HETG) on Chandra. The successful applicant will be encouraged to propose for guaranteed observing time on Chandra and for MKI time on Magellan. Prof. McDonald is a member of the South Pole Telescope consortium and has privileged access to new data from the SPT-Pol survey and the SPT-3G survey, which will discover thousands of new, distant galaxy clusters over the next few years. The SPT consortium has an MOU with eRosita, which would allow the successful applicant to propose for a joint SPT-eRosita project.
 
Experience with observational optical/IR and/or X-ray data is highly desirable.  Applicants with observational experience in other relevant wavebands, especially radio, mm, and far-IR, are encouraged to apply. The appointment is for two years with the extension to a third contingent on a performance review. Applicants must have a Ph.D. in Astronomy, Astrophysics or related field.  
 
Applicants should submit a CV, publications list, and a brief past+future research statement (no more than 4 pages). Please identify, in your application, three references and their contact info -- letters will be requested from a subset of applicants. Completed applications and a list of references should be sent electronically to: Ms. Thea Paneth ([email protected]) by December 11, 2020.  PDF format is strongly preferred.  Questions may be directed to Prof. McDonald ([email protected]).
 

MIT is an equal employment opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment and will not be discriminated against on the basis of race, color, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, religion, disability, age, genetic information, veteran status, ancestry, or national or ethnic origin.