Postdoctoral Associate

The Kavli Institute for Astrophysics and Space Research (MKI) invites applications for postdoctoral positions to carry out collaborative and independent research programs in high-energy astrophysics, with broad emphasis on black hole accretion, in the research group led by Professor Erin Kara. Two positions are available--one in high-resolution X-ray spectroscopy and one in time-domain astronomy or spectral-timing studies. Will work either on high-resolution X-ray spectroscopy studies with the recently launched XRISM Observatory (on observations of active galactic nuclei, tidal disruption events, or black hole X-ray binaries), or, for candidates with interest in transients or time-variable phenomena, on multi-wavelength time-domain surveys or follow-up spectral and timing studies in X-rays and/or other wavelengths. There will be substantial freedom to suggest and work on other projects related to black hole accretion. Collaborative opportunities are enabled by MKI’s community of astrophysicists and its participation in the Magellan Telescopes, NICER, LIGO, TESS, Chandra, and XRISM Observatories.

REQUIRED:  Ph.D. in physics, astrophysics, or a closely related field and a background in high-energy astrophysics by the start of the position; experience in high-resolution X-ray spectroscopy, spectral-timing analysis, or time domain astronomy; ability to carry out an independent research program and work collaboratively with students and other members of the MKI community.

Candidates should submit a curriculum vitae including publications and a statement of research (3-4 pages, including a summary of past/current research and future plans), and arrange to have three letters of recommendation to be submitted to Thea Paneth at [email protected].

Applications received by December 22, 2023, will receive full consideration. The appointment is for two years, with a third-year contingent upon performance. The start date is flexible within summer to fall of 2024. Employment is contingent upon the completion of a satisfactory background check.

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.