The Department of Astrophysical Sciences at Princeton University, the Department of Astronomy and the Department of Physics at Columbia University, and the Department of Physics at University of Maryland, College Park, invite applications for a four-year postdoctoral research associate position in plasma astrophysics as part of the new NSF-funded Multimessenger Plasma Physics Center (MPPC). MPPC is a multi-institutional collaboration between Princeton University, Columbia University, University of Maryland, and Washington University in St. Louis, that is dedicated to studying plasma processes that occur in astrophysical sources of multimessenger astronomy. In particular, the core research topics of MPPC include global modeling of magnetospheres of merging neutron stars, black hole accretion flares, acceleration of ultra-high energy cosmic rays, physics of cosmic ray transport, dynamics of relativistic plasmas undergoing radiative reconnection, and other processes relevant to electromagnetic counterparts of multimessenger signals.
Applicants with interest and experience in high-energy astrophysics theory and modeling, and in plasma theory and simulation are strongly encouraged to apply. The successful candidate(s) are expected to carry out research on center topics independently and in collaboration with other center members. Faculty involved in MPPC projects include A. Spitkovsky, A. Bhattacharjee, E. Quataert (Princeton), L. Sironi, A. Beloborodov (Columbia), A. Philippov, J. Drake (UMd), and Y. Yuan (WU). To enable cross-collaboration work, the successful candidate(s) will spend two years at either Princeton, Columbia or UMd followed by two years at one of the other center institutions; institutions with the best research fit, and therefore the order of institutions, will be agreed upon with the applicants upon acceptance of the position. MPPC fellows will have access to outstanding computing facilities and support for collaborative and conference travel.
In order to be considered for these joint positions, candidates must submit their application by November 1, 2022 at 11:59pm EST, at the following link:
https://puwebp.princeton.edu/AcadHire/position/27583
The expected starting date is September 1, 2023, although this is flexible. A PhD in Physics, Astronomy, or a related field is required.
Interested persons should submit a curriculum vitae, a publication list and a research statement, and provide contact information for three references. All applications received by November 1, 2022 at 11:59pm EST will be fully considered, but applications will continue to be accepted until all available positions are filled.
All applicants at the above link will automatically be considered for all postdoctoral positions in the Astrophysical Sciences Department at Princeton; to indicate particular interest in the joint MPPC position, select the “MPPC” button. Appointments at each institution are for one year with the expectation of renewal for a second year subject to satisfactory performance and availability of funding. This position is subject to Princeton University’s background check policy.
Each of the center institutions is committed to diversity and making the field more equitable and inclusive. Princeton University, Columbia University and UMd are Equal Opportunity/ Affirmative Action employers and all qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, national origin, disability status, protected veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by law.
