We invite applications for a postdoctoral scholar to join Northwestern’s Center for Interdisciplinary Exploration and Research in Astrophysics (CIERA) and the leadership of the LSST-DA Data Science Fellowship Program (DSFP). The DSFP Postdoctoral Fellow will divide their time equally between conducting research in Professor Adam Miller’s group applying data science techniques to time-domain surveys, while continuing the development and growth of the DSFP.
The LSST-DA DSFP is a unique graduate-training program designed to teach the data science skills necessary for analysis of Vera C. Rubin Observatory data. DSFP Fellows participate in three separate week-long sessions per year (see https://lsstdiscoveryalliance.org/lsst-discovery-alliance-programs/data-science-fellowship/ for more information). Sessions include lectures and hands-on applications that can be directly applied to the fellows’ research (see https://github.com/LSSTC-DSFP/LSSTC-DSFP-Sessions for the curriculum from past sessions).
The ideal candidate for this position will possess data science skills, extensive experience writing software in python, significant interest in the Rubin Observatory, a strong survey science background, the ability to meet multiple overlapping deadlines, as well as an enthusiastic commitment to fostering active skill development within the astronomical community. The DSFP Postdoctoral Associate will divide their time equally between the DSFP and conducting a competitive data science research program in astronomy/astrophysics. Duties related to the DSFP include the development and curation of curriculum materials, coordination of guest instructors for each session, and organizing and running the sessions themselves.
The DSFP Postdoctoral Associate will be part of the CIERA community. Successful applicants will benefit from interaction with a broad interdisciplinary group of researchers and will be immersed in a diverse and dynamic intellectual environment (learn more about CIERA’s programs and activities). As a CIERA postdoc, the DSFP Postdoctoral Associate will have access to world-class telescope facilities (Keck, MMT, Magellan, SEDMv2, LS4), as well as CIERA-dedicated high performance computing resources and the services of a dedicated Computational Specialist (see https://ciera.northwestern.edu/high-performance-computing/ for more information).
DSFP-related work will be with Director Adam Miller. The DSFP Postdoctoral Associate will receive a competitive salary and benefits and will be employed for a term of three years.
Please submit applications electronically to Academic Jobs Online #31768. Applications should include a CV (including a list of publications with the most important 1 to 3 publications indicated with an asterisk), a three-page statement of research accomplishments and plans, a one-page DSFP statement [this one-page statement should include a description of the applicant’s previous experience and skills, or plans to develop new skills, relevant to the DSFP. Such skills include, but are not limited to: teaching, outreach, curriculum development, planning and organizing meetings, etc. This statement should not discuss research, relevant research in data science should be discussed in the research statement.], and cover letter. The cover letter should include the names of at least three references who would be able to write a letter of recommendation. References will only be requested for applicants that make it to the short list. All questions should be sent by email to CIERA-Jobs@northwestern.edu. Applications received by April 1st, 2026, will receive full consideration. Later applications will be considered until the position is filled.
Applicants must complete their Ph.D. requirements prior to appointment.
CIERA is committed to creating a welcoming, safe, and inclusive community for everyone. Every person connected to CIERA, including its visitors, upholds our shared values by seeking diverse perspectives and deliberately working to increase access and equity of people from marginalized groups. We recognize that true excellence only comes from the meaningful integration of all perspectives in our community and culture. CIERA also participates with University-wide diversity & inclusion efforts: Northwestern’s Leadership Commitment, Northwestern’s Office of Equity.
Northwestern University is an equal opportunity, affirmative action employer and does not discriminate against qualified individuals on the basis of race, color, religion, national origin, sex, pregnancy, sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, parental status, marital status, age, disability, citizenship status, veteran status, genetic information, or any other protected class. Individuals from all diverse backgrounds are encouraged to apply. Hiring is contingent upon eligibility to work in the United States. For more information, please see the University’s Policy on Discrimination and Harassment.
Included Benefits: https://www.northwestern.edu/hr/benefits/index.html.