Postdoctoral Research Associate in Galaxy Evolution

NSF’s National Optical-Infrared Astronomy Research Laboratory (NSF’s OIR Lab) invites applications for a Postdoctoral Research Associate to work on observational studies of galaxy formation and evolution with Dr. Mark Dickinson and his colleagues. These projects will include:  (1) JWST Early Release Science observations with an emphasis on NIRSpec multi-object spectroscopy; (2) HST UV imaging of the CANDELS deep survey fields; (3) HST WFC3 slitless spectroscopy of massive, quiescent high-redshift galaxies; (4) developing and evaluating science programs and observing strategies for high-redshift extragalactic imaging and slitless spectroscopy surveys with WFIRST; and (5) potentially other projects involving deep field multi-wavelength observations with ALMA, large ground-based optical-IR telescopes, and other facilities.  The successful candidate will join the JWST Cosmic Evolution Early Release Science (CEERS) team, the HST UV-CANDELS team, and the WFIRST Extragalactic Potential Observations (EXPO) Science Investigation Team, and will collaborate with other members of these teams on research and data analysis.  There will also be opportunities for carrying out original, independent research projects.

The initial term of appointment will be one year, with the possibility for reappointment for up to three years, contingent on performance and on the availability of funding.

Preferred Education/Experience/Skills/Abilities:

• Ph.D. in Astronomy or closely related physical science
• Optical/infrared spectroscopy of faint galaxies (observations and data reduction)
• Astronomical data reduction and analysis

To apply:  Applications must be submitted online at the URL given below. Please submit a curriculum vitae, a list of publications and a statement of current and future research interests, all as PDF files. Three confidential letters of reference should be sent to [email protected], with the name of the applicant included in the subject heading. Please name any attachments with the following format: Lastname Docname.

Completed applications and letters of reference received by 29 February 2020 will receive full consideration, but earlier submission is encouraged.

Questions regarding this position should be sent to Dr. Mark Dickinson at [email protected].

NSF’s OIR Lab offers an excellent benefits package, competitive salary commensurate with experience, and a very stimulating work environment.

Veterans, disabled individuals or wounded warriors needing assistance with the employment process should request assistance at [email protected]

Preference granted to qualified Native Americans living on or near the Tohono O'odham reservation.

The Association of Universities for Research in Astronomy (AURA), is a consortium of over 40 US institutions and four international affiliates that operates world-class astronomical observatories. AURA’s role is to establish, nurture, and promote public observatories and facilities that advance innovative astronomical research. AURA is responsible for managing the operations of the NSF's National Optical-Infrared Astronomy Research Laboratory, the National Solar Observatory, and the construction of the Vera C. Rubin Observatory and the Daniel K. Inouye Solar Telescope under cooperative agreements with the National Science Foundation and operations of the Space Telescope Science Institute under contracts with NASA.

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