Postdoctoral Associate - Physics and Astronomy at Rice University in Houston, Texas

Job Description:

Position Summary

The Department of Physics and Astronomy at Rice University invites applications for a postdoctoral research position to work primary with Prof. Andrea Isella on observational and/or theoretical studies of the star-planet interaction.

The successful applicant will have the opportunity to join the Owens Valley Radio Observatory - Long Wavelength Array (OVRO-LWA) science team at Rice and engage in collaborations within multi-institutional OVRO-LWA science core teams including Caltech/JPL, Arizona State University, New Jersey Institute of Technology. Additionally, she/he will have the opportunity to interact closely with Rice University astrophysicists and space-physicists. Applications with prior experience in analyzing large multidimensional datasets and/or low-frequency radio observations are especially encouraged to apply.

The position requires a PhD in astronomy, astrophysics, physics, or a closely related field. The initial appointment is for one year from the date of hire, with the possibility of renewal for a second year contingent on performance, and a third year contingent on funding availability and performance.

The position is available immediately and will remain open until filled. Depending on experience, the annual salary will be between $60,000 USD and $65,000 USD.

Applicants should submit a cover letter including names and information of at least three recommenders, a CV (including a list of publications), and a brief (2 pages) statement of previous work and proposed research.

Workplace Requirements : This is an in-person at Rice University in Houston, Texas. Position may require occasional extended work hours (e.g. after 5:00 PM and/or weekends) in order to meet project deadlines. Additionally, this position is funded by a grant, soft and/or restricted funds. Continued employment is contingent on the renewal of funding.

Essential Functions

• Documents, analyzes, and maintains research data on observational and/or theoretical studies of the star-planet interaction
• Assists with proposal development to obtain research funding
• Mentors, oversees, and/or trains junior research team members
• Publishes and presents research findings
• Supports project management and collaboration across institutions or disciplines
• Designs and implements research protocols; adapts new procedures, methods or instrumentation relative to research procedures
• Performs all other duties as assigned

• Ph.D in astronomy, astrophysics, physics, or a closely related field or related field

• Proficiency in analyzing large multidimensional astronomical dataset
• Proficiency in searching and analyzing transient astronomical events
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills, as well as oral presentation skills
• Organization and time management skills
• Knowledge of modern research methods, data collection, and analyses
• Knowledge of the principles and techniques of Physics and Astronomy
• Ability to write scholarly papers based on ongoing research in order to submit them to journals for publication
• Able to work in a collaborative environment
• Able to work independently and professionally with minimal supervision and direction

• Prior experience in analyzing low-frequency radio observations
• Prior experience in stellar astrophysics and star-planet interaction

Rice University HR | Benefits: https://knowledgecafe.rice.edu/benefits-overview

Rice Mission and Values: Mission and Values | Rice University

Rice University is an Equal Opportunity Employer committed to diversity at all levels. It considers for employment qualified applicants without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national or ethnic origin, genetic information, disability, or protected veteran status.

About Us

Boasting a 300-acre tree-lined campus in Houston, Rice University is ranked among the nation's top 20 universities by U.S. News & World Report. Rice has a 6-to-1 undergraduate student-to-faculty ratio, and a residential college system, which supports students intellectually, emotionally and culturally through social events, intramural sports, student plays, lectures series, courses and student government. Developing close-knit, diverse college communities is a strong campus tradition, which is why Rice is highly ranked for best quality of life and best value among private universities.