Postdoctoral researcher in resolved studies of nearby galaxies with JWST and HST

The Space Telescope Science Institute (STScI) invites applications for two postdoctoral positions to work with Drs. Christopher Clark, Karl Gordon, Julia Roman-Duval, Adam Smercina, Kristen McQuinn, and collaborators. The successful applicant(s) will work on JWST and HST programs targeting nearby galaxies. The objectives of the programs are multi-fold and focus on investigations of resolved stellar populations, interstellar dust, including polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) and photo-dissociation regions (PDRs).

The first position will focus on the study of individual stars resolved in the nearby massive starburst galaxy M82, as part of a large Cycle 3 JWST NIRCam imaging program, and in the nearby star-forming dwarf galaxies NGC 4449 and NGC 7793, as part of an HST archival project. The successful applicant will use stellar SED-fitting methods on multi-filter photometry of these stars to derive precise stellar and dust parameters. Higher-level science will involve inference of star formation and enrichment histories, via color-magnitude-diagram fitting, and mapping of interstellar extinction. This work will be largely supervised by Drs. Adam Smercina, Kristen McQuinn, and Christopher Clark.

The second position will focus on the study of dust and PAH emission in nearby galaxies, including the SMC, M82, M51, and the Milky Way, using observations from JWST Cycle 1–3, across several projects with NIRCam and MIRI imaging, and MIRI Medium Resolution Spectroscopy. The successful applicant will use imaging data to map PAH and dust emission in the targets, and in the case of MRS observations analyze individual dust emission features present in their mid-infrared spectra. This work will be largely supervised by Drs. Julia Roman-Duval, Adam Smercina, and Karl Gordon.

Part of the time may be available for independent research or new projects in related areas.

The successful applicant(s) will work closely as part of the dynamic, welcoming, and inclusive ISM*@STSCI group (https://www.ismstar.space), which includes a number of faculty, postdocs, and graduate students.  The ISM*@ST group has broad scientific interests centered on the interstellar medium and stellar populations.  This research will involve working with and, if possible, 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 nearby galaxies, interstellar gas and dust, and stellar populations 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 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, 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/81989

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.