Postdoctoral Researcher
Position Overview
The Department of Physics and Astronomy at the University of Kansas (KU) seeks to fill a postdoctoral researcher position in observational or theoretical exoplanetary atmospheres, working in Professor Ian Crossfield’s KU ExoLab group.
Initial appointment is for two years with the possibility of renewal annually for subsequent years subject to review and continued grant funding.
Research in exoplanetary atmospheres. The successful candidate will contribute in several aspects of Prof. Crossfield’s ExoLab research program: in particular, in the detailed characterization (via observations and/or modeling) of exoplanetary atmospheres. Of particular interest are those candidates motivated to work on new JWST, HST, and ground-based exoplanet observations; and/or to confront observations with models using self-consistent forward models and/or inverse (retrieval) methods. The ideal candidate will also be a community member in good standing with a dedication to service.
Initial appointment is for two years with the possibility of renewal annually for subsequent years subject to review and continued grant funding.
Research in exoplanetary atmospheres. The successful candidate will contribute in several aspects of Prof. Crossfield’s ExoLab research program: in particular, in the detailed characterization (via observations and/or modeling) of exoplanetary atmospheres. Of particular interest are those candidates motivated to work on new JWST, HST, and ground-based exoplanet observations; and/or to confront observations with models using self-consistent forward models and/or inverse (retrieval) methods. The ideal candidate will also be a community member in good standing with a dedication to service.
Job Description
Conduct research in observational and/or theoretical exoplanetary atmospheric astrophysics as part of Prof. Crossfield’s ExoLab research program, in particular in the detailed characterization of exoplanetary atmospheres. Depending on the successful applicant’s strengths and interests, this work will involve some or all of: calculating model planetary atmospheres, chemistry, aerosols, and synthetic spectra; deriving physical parameters from observations; conducting and/or proposing for observations; and other work related to exoplanetary spectra, abundance, and other physical parameters. This also entails participation in relevant facets of the group’s research endeavors ranging from data analysis, software development, publication preparation, grant proposal preparation, editorial work, presentation of results, outreach and career development, and travel as required for work duties.
Specific Job Duties (percentage of time):
80% - Analysis of data and/or calculation of new models, and related work. Documentation, presentation and publication of research results.
20% - Assist the faculty in guiding the group's graduate and undergraduate students, and with outreach and Broader Impact efforts.
Specific Job Duties (percentage of time):
80% - Analysis of data and/or calculation of new models, and related work. Documentation, presentation and publication of research results.
20% - Assist the faculty in guiding the group's graduate and undergraduate students, and with outreach and Broader Impact efforts.
Position Requirements
This position is fully on-site, at 1082 Malott Hall, Lawrence KS
Required Qualifications
Evaluation of the required qualification and preferred qualification will be made through
(1) records of accomplishments entered in CV
(2) description of research and education experience provided in the application materials
(3) references
(4) publications as appropriate.
Required Qualification:
(1) records of accomplishments entered in CV
(2) description of research and education experience provided in the application materials
(3) references
(4) publications as appropriate.
Required Qualification:
- A Ph.D. in physics, astronomy, astrophysics, or a related field by date of appointment
NOTE: To be appointed at the Postdoctoral Researcher title, it is necessary to have the PhD in hand. Appointments made without a diploma or certified transcript indicating an earned doctorate are conditional hires and are appointed on an acting basis not to exceed 6 months.
Preferred Qualifications
- Experience and ability in reduction & analysis of exoplanetary spectra and/or related data products, as evidenced in application materials.
- Experience and ability with conducting, interpreting, and/or successfully proposing for astronomical observations, as evidenced in application materials.
- Experience in constructing model atmospheres and synthetic spectra, as evidenced in application materials.
- Experience in experimental techniques and software relevant to astrophysical observations, as evidenced in application materials.
- Good communication skills, as evidenced in application materials.
Additional Candidate Instructions
A complete online application will include:
- Cover Letter
- Curriculum Vitae (including publications list)
- Statement of Research Interests and Skills
- At least three letters of recommendation
Contact Information to Applicants
Ian Crossfield; ianc@ku.edu
Advertised Salary Range
$59,000 - $70,000, commensurate with experience and qualifications
Work Schedule
M-F; 8-5
Application Review Begins
Wednesday April 16, 2025
Anticipated Start Date
Monday September 1, 2025