JWST Star & Planet-Formation Postdoc - #000691

Located on the Johns Hopkins University Homewood campus in Baltimore, Maryland, the Space Telescope Science Institute (STScI) is the science and operations center for the James Webb Space Telescope (JWST). Hosting hundreds of active research staff working on a wide range of topics, from the solar system to the most distant galaxies, STScI has a vibrant science community with many opportunities for collaboration and scientific growth.  Visit our website to learn more about our missions. 

STScI seeks one or more postdoctoral researchers to work with JWST spectroscopy of chemistry in young stars and planet-forming disks, based on data from multiple Cycle 1 observing programs. You will have the opportunity to work with Dr. Klaus Pontoppidan and the star- and planet formation group at STScI, as well as a broad US and international collaboration, including Prof. Colette Salyk at Vassar College. The JWST observing programs include surveys using MIRI spectroscopy of molecular gas in planet-forming disks (JDISCS - 1549, 1584, and 1640) and NIRSpec and MIRI spectroscopy of ice in disks and star-forming regions (1611, 1960, 1751). Within this broad scope, the focus of the position(s) is flexible and will depend on your research interests! Our collaboration includes data processing experts, so you will be able to spend most of your time working with science-ready data.

As a postdoctoral researcher at STScI, you will benefit from our career mentoring program, interactions with STScI and 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 (Hubble, JWST, and Roman). The nominal start date is expected to be in May 2023. The initial appointment is for two years, with an expected renewal for a third year, subject to satisfactory performance and availability of funding.

The starting position and salary are commensurate with education and experience. We offer an excellent and generous benefits package. Questions about the position may be directed to Klaus Pontoppidan ([email protected]). Questions about the application process may be sent to [email protected].

Requirements:

·       PhD in astronomy, physics, planetary science, or related field, at the time of starting the position.

·       Experience working with scientific programming software, in particular Python.

The following qualifications are desirable, but not required:

·       Experience with analysis of uv, optical, infrared, and/or millimeter astronomical data in the broad areas of star- and planet formation.

·       Experience working in teams.

Applicants should submit the following materials in a single pdf file:

·       a curriculum vitae,

·       a list of publications,

·       a brief research statement (1-3 pages)

Applications received by December 23, 2022 will receive full consideration. Applicants should arrange for three references, using the Slideroom application system. Reference letters must be submitted by January 6.

Please ONLY use this link to apply: https://stsci.slideroom.com/#/permalink/program/70047

All employment is contingent on establishing eligibility to work in the United States, including obtaining an appropriate visa, if necessary.

The diversity of the STScI staff enhances the dynamic and collegial atmosphere of our scientific community, and reflects our commitment to inclusivity in the broadest sense. Accordingly, women, minorities, veterans, and disabled individuals are strongly encouraged to apply for these positions.

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].