Postdoctoral Fellow in Extragalactic Observational Astrophysics

The Smithsonian Astrophysical Observatory (SAO), part of the Harvard-Smithsonian Center for Astrophysics (CfA), invites applications for a Postdoctoral Fellowship position to work with Dr. Grant Tremblay in the field of extragalactic observational astrophysics. 

The successful candidate will carry out independent research on clusters of galaxies and Active Galactic Nuclei (AGN), and will have access to a large number of highly multiwavelength datasets based upon existing Chandra, ALMA, VLT/MUSE, and Hubble Space Telescope observations, including a large sample of AGN observed as part of the Close AGN Reference Survey (CARS; www.cars-survey.org). The Fellow will also work with Dr. Tremblay and colleagues to develop new programs, particularly for forthcoming facilities like JWST, and will be given the opportunity to mentor graduate and undergraduate students at the CfA. The Fellow can also contribute to our group's projects related to the development of forthcoming and proposed NASA space missions, though this is not a specific requirement. 

Because of the multi-wavelength nature of possible projects, the candidate need not have specific experience with all of the above listed facilities, though familiarity with one or more is strongly desired. The Fellow will join a large, highly collaborative group of world-class experts in the field of galaxy clusters, including specialists on black hole feedback, galaxy evolution, dark matter searches, and the cycle of baryons in the circumgalactic and intracluster medium. Along with Dr. Tremblay, the Fellow will collaborate with experts such as Drs. Christine Jones, William Forman, Ralph Kraft, Esra Bulbul, Paul Nulsen, Andra Stroe, Alexey Vikhlinin, etc., along with a fantastic group of students and postdocs. The Fellow will have access to Chandra Guaranteed Time Observations (GTO) as well as data from a recent Chandra large program, so those with prior X-ray experience are particularly encouraged to apply. 

This position will be for a two year initial term, with extension for a third year dependent upon mutual agreement, job performance, and the availability of funds. The anticipated start date is September 1, 2019, although an earlier or later start is possible. Applicants must possess a PhD or equivalent degree in Astronomy/Astrophysics, Physics, or a related field by the date of the appointment. Interested candidates should forward a CV and a summary of past research and future goals as a single PDF to Dr. Grant Tremblay ([email protected]), along with the names and email addresses of three references. No reference letters are required with the application, as these will be solicited as needed. There is no formal page limit for the research statement, though candidates should not feel pressured to submit anything longer than a few (~2-5) pages. Applications received by November 15, 2018 will receive full consideration, though later applications may be considered. Candidates are welcome to contact Dr. Tremblay with questions at any time ([email protected]).

Postdoctoral researchers at the Center for Astrophysics are eligible to apply for independent funding from U.S. funding agencies as Principal Investigators. Full financial support is available for conferences, travel, personal computing equipment, and publications. The postdoctoral stipend includes health care coverage for the successful candidate and, if applicable, their family (spouse and children). Limited funds are available for relocation costs. The Harvard-Smithsonian Center for Astrophysics is committed to creating an inclusive and equitable environment, and is proud to be an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive full consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, gender, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, national origin, genetics, disability, age, or veteran status. Women, minorities, individuals with disabilities and veterans are strongly encouraged to apply.