Postdoctoral Research Associate I, High-Contrast Astronomy (Multiple Positions) (updated)
Posting Number req23540
Department Steward Observatory
Department Website Link https://astro.astronomy.edu
Location Tucson Campus
Address Tucson, AZ USA
Position Highlights
Please Note: The number of openings for this position has been updated from two to three.
The University of Arizona (UA) Department of Astronomy and Steward Observatory (SO) invites applications for Postdoctoral Research Associates interested in research related to direct imaging of exoplanets and debris disks. Successful applicants will have the opportunity to work with faculty, including Ewan Douglas and others, within Steward Observatory and the Center for Astronomical Adaptive Optics on high-contrast imaging, debris disk science as well as the opportunity to join ongoing efforts in laboratory work demonstrating high-contrast technologies on the vacuum Space Coronagraph Optical Bench (SCoOB), coronagraphic image post-processing for existing and future space telescopes, simulation of coronagraphs for future missions including the Roman Coronagraph and future missions to image exoplanets such as the Habitable Worlds Observatory and other space telescope concepts.
UA/SO offers a world-class research environment in ground and space-based astrophysics with strong interdisciplinary programs across the Departments of Astronomy, Physics, Planetary Sciences, and Optical Sciences. Home to the Richard F Caris Mirror Lab, a founding member of the Giant Magellan Telescope, the Aspera Pioneer mission, and the JWST NIRCam team. Steward Observatory also provides direct access to various world-class facilities for ground-based radio and optical observing. Among these are the Large Binocular Telescope and 6.5m aperture telescopes located in both the northern and southern hemispheres, and applicants would be eligible to submit their own science proposals.
The position will provide opportunities for outreach and student engagement, including opportunities for collaborations with the TIMESTEP and Astronomy Camp programs, and applicants with an interest in outreach are encouraged to apply.
Multiple positions are expected to be available with start dates ranging from September 2025 to May 2026.
Outstanding UA benefits include health, dental, vision, and life insurance; paid vacation, sick leave, and holidays; UA/ASU/NAU tuition reduction for the employee and qualified family members; access to UA recreation and cultural activities; and more!
The University of Arizona has been recognized for our innovative work-life programs.
Duties & Responsibilities
Collaborate with faculty and scholars and develop and implement research initiatives, collaborations, publications, and/or events as needed and relevant to research agendas.
Integrate into the department’s scientific community and support a scholarly environment in research, mentoring, and service.
Additional duties as assigned.
Minimum Qualifications
Must have completed the requirement of a Ph.D. upon hire.
Preferred Qualifications
PhD in a physical science or engineering field.
Experience in high-contrast imaging data reduction.
Experience in exoplanet and/or debris disk science.
Experience building, operating, or testing astronomical instruments or telescopes on the ground or in space.
Experience contributing to open-source software or hardware projects.
Experience with technical communication.
FLSA Exempt
Full Time/Part Time Full Time
Number of Hours Worked per Week 40
Job FTE 1.0
Work Calendar Fiscal
Job Category Research
Benefits Eligible Yes - Full Benefits
Rate of Pay NIH Salary Guidelines, Depends on Experience
Compensation Type salary at 1.0 full-time equivalency (FTE)
Type of criminal background check required: Name-based criminal background check (non-security sensitive)
Number of Vacancies 3
Target Hire Date 9/8/2025
Expected End Date
Contact Information for Candidates Carli Chmara |
[email protected]
Open Date 8/6/2025
Open Until Filled Yes
Documents Needed to Apply Curriculum Vitae (CV), Cover Letter, and Two Additional Documents
Special Instructions to Applicant Along with your application, CV, and cover letter, please provide the following additional documents:
Additional Document 1: Two-page Statement of Research Experience and Interest.
Additional Document 2: Names and email addresses of three references.
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