Post Doctoral Researcher in Strong Gravitational Lensing Cosmology

The Space Telescope Science Institute invites applications for a postdoctoral position focused on cosmology using strongly lensed supernovae. The successful applicants will be part of the Transient Science @ Space Telescope group (TS@ST, https://www.stsci.edu/stsci-research/research-groups/transient-science-space- telescope), a joint research group at STScI, which includes Drs. Justin Pierel, Lou Strolger, Ori Fox, Armin Rest, Suvi Gezari, Russell Ryan, and a number of additional postdocs and graduate students. The TS@ST group has broad scientific interests in transient science, including supernovae, lensed supernovae, gravitational waves, tidal disruption events, and cosmology.

Researchers will have access to data from APO, Pan-STARRS, DECam, ATLAS, Gemini, Magellan, HST, Kepler, TESS, SDSS-V, ZTF-II, SEDMv2, Swift, and JWST.

The successful candidates would work on a combination of strong lensing projects:

1. Galaxy-scale and/or cluster-scale lens modeling for cosmological measurements with strongly lensed supernovae observed with HST/JWST.
2. Coordinating HST/JWST observations of lensed supernovae, including photometry and light curve fitting in support of time-delay measurements for
3. A Roman Wide-Field Science investigation on cosmology with strongly lensed supernovae. This program develops a detection and analysis pipeline that prepares the community to find and leverage gravitationally lensed supernovae in the Roman surveys for cosmology.

Applicants must hold a Ph.D. degree in Astronomy, Astrophysics, Physics, or a related field prior to beginning their appointment. Research experience is desired in areas of lens modeling, and/or supernova analysis (e.g., measuring photometry, spectroscopic analysis, light curve fitting, etc.) with an interest in strongly lensed supernovae. Experience in scientific computing in Python with some understanding of best practices in modern software development, large and complex data sets, and cloud computing are also desired.

This position will include some time made available for independent research on new projects in related areas. The position is for two years, with a third year possible contingent upon performance and continued funding.

Successful applicants will benefit from a career mentoring program at STScI, interactions with the Johns Hopkins University research staff, and a stimulating work environment rich in colloquia, journal clubs, symposia, and other learning opportunities related to the missions supported by STScI (HST, JWST, Roman, and MAST).

The nominal start date is Summer/Fall 2025. STScI, located on Johns Hopkins University Campus in Baltimore, Maryland, offers an excellent benefit package (including comprehensive healthcare and paid parental leave), competitive salaries, relocation assistance, and a stimulating work environment. STScI’s pay is commensurate to the year of Ph.D. We especially welcome applications from women, underrepresented minorities, veterans, LBGTQ+ people, and people from other underserved groups.

Please ONLY submit your application using this link: https://stsci.slideroom.com/#/permalink/program/81859

The following materials are requested in a single PDF file: a brief cover letter detailing your interest in the position and relevant expertise, curriculum vitae, publication list, and a summary of previous and current research (limited to 3 pages). Complete applications received by December 20, 2024, will receive full consideration. Applicants should arrange for three confidential letters of reference. Reference letters must be submitted by December 20, 2024 via the on-line application system.

Questions regarding the application process can be sent directly to careers@stsci.edu.

STScI sees the diversity of our staff as a strategic priority in our desire to create a first-rate scientific community. We reflect that deep commitment in strongly encouraging women, minorities, veterans and disabled individuals to apply for these opportunities.

As an Equal Opportunity and Affirmative Action Employer, STScI does not discriminate because of race, sex, color, age, religion, national origin, sexual orientation, lawful political affiliations, veteran status, or mental or physical