Postdoctoral Position in Observational Exoplanet Studies

Application Window

Applications are invited for a postdoctoral research position in observational exoplanet studies in the Department of Physics and Astronomy at the University of California, Irvine. The position will start in Fall 2023 and will initially be for one year, but is expected to be extended for up to three years contingent on funding and annual progress evaluations.

The position will be to work with Prof. Steph Sallum supporting the development of the Slicer Combined with Array of Lenslets for Exoplanet Spectroscopy (SCALES). SCALES is an integral field spectrograph currently under construction for Keck Observatory. It will enable simultaneous discovery and characterization of exoplanets from 2-5 µm. The postdoctoral scholar will work with Prof. Sallum to produce SCALES data reduction tools for use at Keck. They will also have the opportunity to design and execute early SCALES science programs related to exoplanets, protoplanetary disks, Solar System objects, and more. These early observations will take place following first light in 2025.

The successful applicant will have access to world class telescopes and instruments through UC Observatories. UCI postdoctoral scholars may apply for time at Lick Observatory as PI, and have access to the Keck Observatory through faculty sponsors.

Applicants should hold a Ph.D. in astrophysics or a related discipline by Fall 2023. It is preferred that candidates have experience in developing software tools for reducing astronomical data. Review of applications will begin on February 15th, 2023, and applications will be accepted until the position is filled.

Candidates should apply through AP Recruit:

https://recruit.ap.uci.edu/apply/JPF08041.

Include with their application the following items:
Curriculum Vitae
Research Statement, not to exceed 5 pages in length
3-5 letters of recommendation
Statement of Contribution to Inclusive Excellence

Informal inquiries may be directed to sallum@uci.edu.

UCI Postdoctoral Scholars are covered by a collective bargaining agreement between the Regents of the University of California and the International Union, United Automobile, Aerospace and Agricultural Implement Workers of America (UAW). More information may be found at https://ap.uci.edu/postdoc/.

Applicants should hold a Ph.D. in astrophysics or a related discipline by Fall 2023.

The University of California, Irvine is an Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action Employer advancing inclusive excellence. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, age, protected veteran status, or other protected categories covered by the UC nondiscrimination policy.