Center for Interdisciplinary Exploration and Research in Astrophysics (CIERA) logo

Northwestern University expects to offer postdoctoral associate positions in theoretical astronomy and astrophysics starting in fall 2020.

These positions will be part of the Center for Interdisciplinary Exploration and Research in Astrophysics (CIERA) at Northwestern. 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). CIERA researchers have exclusive access to two high-performance computer clusters, providing access to 1,344 compute cores. Additional HPC resources, including high-memory nodes, are available through Northwestern’s Quest cluster (see https://ciera.northwestern.edu/high-performance-computing/ for more information). A dedicated Computational Specialist is also on staff to assist CIERA researchers.

Of particular interest this year are candidates who will work with:

• Prof. Claude-André Faucher-Giguère on galaxy formation modeling (including cosmological simulations, star formation and stellar feedback, supermassive black hole growth and feedback, IGM/CGM/ICM, and large-scale structure). In the case of overlapping interests, joint appointments with the cosmology group at Argonne National Lab or with the theoretical astrophysics group at Fermilab are possible. Please mention in your cover letter if you are especially interested in a collaborative appointment with one of these laboratories.
• Prof. Vicky Kalogera on gravitational-wave data analysis and astrophysical interpretation of gravitational-wave measurements
• Prof. Fred Rasio on the modeling of dense star clusters (globular clusters, galactic nuclei), and, in particular, the dynamical formation of GW sources, X-ray binaries, and binary pulsars, or
• Prof. Tchekhovskoy on modeling compact object accretion and ejection in a wide range of astrophysical contexts (including compact object mergers, magnetic stellar explosions, gamma-ray bursts, X-ray binaries, ultra-luminous X-ray sources, tidal disruptions, and active galactic nuclei)

Please submit applications electronically on Academic Jobs Online #14389. 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, and arrange for at least three letters of recommendation to be uploaded to Academic Jobs Online. All questions should be sent by email to CIERA-Jobs@northwestern.edu. Applications received by December 1st, 2019 will receive full consideration. Later applications will be considered until all positions are filled.

Please state that you are applying for a Theoretical Astronomy & Astrophysics Postdoctoral Associate position in your cover letter. If you wish to simultaneously apply for a CIERA Postdoctoral Fellowship position, submit a single copy of your application materials and specify all positions in your cover letter. Applicants must complete their Ph.D. requirements prior to appointment.

CIERA has a strong commitment to the achievement of excellence through diversity among its faculty and staff. Northwestern University is an Equal Opportunity, Affirmative Action Employer of all protected classes, including veterans and individuals with disabilities. Women, racial and ethnic minorities, individuals with disabilities, and veterans are encouraged to apply. Hiring is contingent upon eligibility to work in the United States.