JWST Planetary System Formation and Evolution Postdoctoral Associate

The Johns Hopkins University Department of Physics and Astronomy invites applications for a postdoctoral associate in exoplanetary system formation and evolution. The successful applicant will work with Dr. Christine Chen on observations of debris disks from the recently commissioned JWST. In addition, they will collaborate with faculty and students at JHU and staff and postdocs at Space Telescope Science Institute (STScI). STScI is the Science and Operations Center for JWST with deep expertise in both Star and Planet Formation (https://groorg1.wixsite.com/spfstsci) and the Extrasolar Planetary Systems Imaging (http://stsci-epsig.blogspot.com/).

The successful applicant will help develop high contrast imaging techniques for JWST, reduce data from already approved JWST Cycle 1 programs, and lead scientific analyses of JWST data. JWST has two Integral Field Spectrographs (IFSs) that can be used to characterize faint disks and exoplanets next to bright, host stars using traditional high contrast imaging techniques. The NIRSpec and MIRI IFSs are expected to revolutionize our understanding of debris disks and exoplanetary atmospheres. The specific responsibilities of the position are flexible depending on the interests and background of the postdoc. The postdoc will have the opportunity to design and conduct their own, independent research projects.

A Ph.D. in astronomy or a related field by the start date of the position is required and prior experience with debris disks and/or high contrast imaging is highly desired. The start date of the appointment is flexible but should be no later than September 2023. The initial appointment is for 1 year with possible renewal for subsequent years depending on performance.

Applicants should e-mail the following materials in a single pdf file to Christine Chen ([email protected]):

1) Cover Letter,

2) Curriculum Vitae with Publication List,

3) Research Statement and

4) Contact Information for 3 References

Completed applications received by December 15, 2022 will receive full consideration.

Women and minority candidates are strongly encouraged to apply. JHU is an affirmative action/equal opportunity employer and welcomes applications from women and members of underrepresented groups.

Questions regarding this position are welcome and may be directed to Christine Chen.