Researcher in Interstellar and Circumgalactic Medium and UV spectroscopy

The Space Telescope Science Institute (STScI) invites applications for one postdoctoral position to work with Drs. Julia Roman-Duval, Andy Fox, and an international team of collaborators. The successful applicant(s) will work on two HST UV spectroscopic programs relating to Milky Way science. The first, the STIS-ISM project, supervised by Dr. Julia Roman-Duval, aims to measure neutral gas-phase abundances and dust depletions toward a large sample of Milky Way sightlines using HST/STIS. The second, supervised by Dr. Andy Fox, aims to map the cool gas in the Milky Way’s nuclear wind and determine the wind’s chemical properties using a combination of new HST/COS and GBT H I spectra. The successful applicant will work on the measurements and scientific analysis of both projects. Part of the time may be available for independent research or new projects in related areas.

The successful applicant(s) will work in two research groups. The dynamic, welcoming, and inclusive ISM@STSCI group (https://sites.google.com/view/ism-stsci/home) includes several faculty members and a number of postdocs and graduate students.  The ISM@ST group has broad scientific interests centered on the interstellar medium, stellar populations, and the circum-galactic medium.  The successful applicant will also work in the Milky Way Halo group (https://www.stsci.edu/~afox/group/index.html), which is devoted to understanding the Milky Way’s CGM and the role of diffuse gas in the Galactic ecosystem. The Milky Way Halo group prioritizes career growth and peer mentoring. Both projects could involve working with and proposing for observations with Hubble, JWST, and ground-based facilities.

The successful applicant(s) will benefit from the 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 learning opportunities related to the missions supported by STScI (HST, JWST, Roman). 

Applicants must hold a Ph.D. degree in Astronomy, Physics, Planetary Science, or related fields at the start of the post-doctoral researcher position.  Research experience in the areas of gas-phase abundances, spectroscopy, nearby galaxies, interstellar and/or circumgalactic gas and dust, and H I observations is desirable. Expertise in numerical methods, statistics, and/or comparing observations to numerical simulations is a plus.

The positions are for two years, with a possible renewal for a third year, depending on performance and availability of funding. The nominal start date is fall 2025 but earlier start dates are possible. STScI, located on Johns Hopkins University Campus in Baltimore, Maryland, offers an excellent benefit package (including comprehensive healthcare and paid parental leave), competitive salaries, and a stimulating work environment. STScI’s pay for postdoctoral researchers is commensurate to the year of Ph.D.  We especially welcome applications from women, minorities, veterans, LBGTQ+ people, and other members of underrepresented groups. 

Prospective applicants should ONLY complete an on-line application through: https://stsci.slideroom.com/#/permalink/program/81992

The following materials are requested in a single PDF file: a brief cover letter detailing your research interests and relevant expertise, a curriculum vitae, a list of publications, and a summary of previous and current research (limited to 3 pages). Complete applications received by December 27, 2024, will receive full consideration. Applicants should arrange for three confidential letters of reference to be submitted by December 27, 2024 via the online 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 handicap. Veterans, disabled or wounded warriors needing assistance with the employment process can contact us at careers@stsci.edu.