Postdoctoral Associate

Job Summary

We encourage applications for a Postdoctoral Associate to join our team and conduct research broadly related to the formation and habitability of planetary systems with a focus on multi-wavelength observations of planet-forming disks and active stars. The interests of our research group are broad, and applications are encouraged from scientists who have interest and experience in any area related to planet formation and habitability.
The University of Colorado Boulder is committed to building a culturally diverse community of faculty, staff, and students dedicated to contributing to an inclusive campus environment. We are an Equal Opportunity employer, including veterans and individuals with disabilities.

Who We Are

This postdoctoral scholar can expect to collaborate with a group of scientists that will celebrate strengths, value diverse perspectives, and work to ensure an equitable scholarly experience for all. Through the Department of Astrophysical and Planetary Sciences, this postdoctoral scholar will have institutional access to the SDSS-V collaboration, the Astrophysical Research Consortium 3.5m, and 0.5m telescopes at Apache Point Observatory, the Las Cumbres Observatory global telescope network, and a large community of astronomers and planetary scientists.

What Your Key Responsibilities Will Be

This postdoctoral scholar will conduct research broadly related to understanding the formation and habitability of planetary systems, working both collaboratively and independently within our research group and the ICAR consortium. They/she/he will have opportunities to contribute to multiple ongoing projects including but not limited to (1) modeling of high resolution ALMA observations of planet-forming disks, (2) studies of disk composition and the inheritance of volatiles into exoplanet atmospheres, and (3) multi-wavelength observing campaigns to understand stellar flaring and its impact on exoplanet atmospheres.

The successful candidate will join the recently-selected NASA Interdisciplinary Consortium for Astrobiology (ICAR) team comprised of scientists in astrophysics, Earth science, planetary science, and cosmochemistry from UC Santa Cruz, the University of Hawaii Manoa, NASA Ames Research Center, the University of Colorado, and the University of Kansas. The consortium aims to trace the trajectories of volatiles from star-forming clouds to protoplanetary disks, from the building blocks of planets to planetary interiors, through exchanges between the interior, surface, and/or envelope, and to their eventual residence in or loss from the atmospheres, we observe today. Candidates are encouraged to describe how their research might impact our broader ICAR goals and catalyze interdisciplinary, cross-institute collaborations within the team. As a member of the team, the successful candidate will be affiliated with NASA’s Nexus for Exoplanet System Science ( NExSS ) and have opportunities to engage with specialists across the network. NExSS members are expected to abide by the rules of engagement designed to promote open communication and open access in astrobiology research.

What You Should Know

The start date is flexible, ranging from summer to fall 2021. The appointment will be for an initial period of two years, with renewal for a third year contingent upon satisfactory progress.

What We Can Offer

The position includes an annual salary range of $58,000-$65,000, research/travel funds, access to telescope and supercomputing facilities, and significant flexibility to account for the ongoing coronavirus pandemic.

Benefits

The University of Colorado offers excellent benefits , including medical, dental, retirement, paid time off, tuition benefit and ECO Pass. The University of Colorado Boulder is one of the largest employers in Boulder County and offers an inspiring higher education environment. Learn more about the University of Colorado Boulder .

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What We Require

• Ph.D. in astronomy, planetary science, or related field, awarded by the start of the position.

What We Would Like You To Have

• Experience with multi-wavelength data analysis (particularly ALMA, HST, Swift, Chandra, and/or TESS data).
• Familiarity with scientific coding.
• Commitment to inclusivity.

Special Instructions

To apply, please submit the following materials:

1. Resume/CV that includes all relevant experience and a list of publications.
2. Cover Letter explaining your interest in this position.
3. A brief (up to 3 pages) statement of your scholarly interests and how you would contribute to a research program on planet formation and habitability, which may also optionally include past/present/future work toward making academia more inclusive and just.

During the application process you will need to enter contact information for three references and we will request letters of recommendation immediately upon application.

Review of applications will begin after 2/26/21. Complete applications received by 3/12/21 will receive full consideration.

Note: Application materials will not be accepted via email. For consideration, applications must be submitted through CU Boulder Jobs .

Posting Contact Information

Posting Contact Name: Boulder Campus Human Resources

Posting Contact Email: Recruiting@colorado.edu