Postdoctoral Research Associate, Exoplanet and Disk Coronagraph Imaging (Multiple Positions)

Postdoctoral Research Associate, Exoplanet and Disk Coronagraph Imaging (Multiple Positions)Posting Number req27484 Department Steward Observatory Department Website LinkLocation Tucson Campus Address Tucson, AZ USA Position Highlights

The University of Arizona (UArizona) Department of Astronomy and Steward Observatory (SO) invites applications for Postdoctoral Research Associates interested in research related to direct imaging of exoplanets. Successful applicants would have the opportunity to work with faculty including Logan Pearce, Ewan S. Douglas and other faculty within the UArizona Space Astrophysics Lab (UASAL) and the Center for Astronomical Adaptive Optics (CAAO) on high-contrast imaging exoplanet science. The successful applicant would have the opportunity to join ongoing efforts in modeling and observational work preparing for the next generation of exoplanet direct imaging observing campaigns in coordination with instrument building teams for both space and ground based high-contrast imaging platforms.

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 the UA Data Science Institute. Selected to build the Lazuli ExtraSolar Coronagraph, Giant Magellan Telescope instrumentation, and JWST instrument teams, Steward Observatory provides direct access to various world-class facilities for observing. Applicants would be eligible to submit their own science proposals.

The position will provide opportunities for outreach and student engagement, and applicants with interest in outreach are encouraged to apply.

Outstanding U of A benefits include health, dental, vision, and life insurance; paid vacation, sick leave, and holidays; U of A/ASU/NAU tuition reduction for the employee and qualified family members; access to U of A recreation and cultural activities; and more!

The University of Arizona has been recognized for our innovative work-life programs.

• Develop and lead an independent research agenda centered on high-contrast imaging and imaging exoplanets and debris disks; disseminate findings through publications and presentations; contribute to public-engagement opportunities.
• Develop and implement research initiatives, collaborations, publications, and/or events (e.g., talks, workshops, visitor programs, etc.) as needed and relevant to research agendas.
• Collaborate with faculty and scholars in support of a welcoming academic environment (including organizing collaborative meetings, supervising/mentoring graduate and undergraduate students).
• Additional duties as assigned.

• Must have completed all the requirements for a PhD. in Astronomy, Physics, Astrophysics, or related science at the time of hire.

• Experience in high-contrast imaging data reduction and observing.
• Experience in exoplanet science.
• Familiarity and/or experience with exoplanet atmosphere modeling or processes.
• Experience contributing to open-source software or hardware projects.
• Demonstrated experience in 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 2 Target Hire Date 9/1/2027 Expected End DateContact Information for CandidatesD.Open Date 10/28/2026 Open Until Filled Yes Documents Needed to Apply Curriculum Vitae (CV), Cover Letter, and Two Additional Documents Special Instructions to ApplicantPlease submit the following materials with your application:

1. CV
2. Cover Letter
3. Research Statement (limit: 5 pages)
4. List of Publications

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