Postdoctoral Associate in Physics and Astronomy

The Department of Physics and Astronomy at Rice University is excited to invite applications for a postdoctoral research position under the guidance of Prof. Andrea Isella. This role focuses on observational and/or theoretical studies of star-planet interactions.

The successful candidate will have the opportunity to join the Owens Valley Radio Observatory – Long Wavelength Array (OVRO-LWA) science team at Rice and engage in collaborative projects with multi-institutional core teams, including Caltech/JPL, Arizona State University, and New Jersey Institute of Technology. Candidates with prior experience in analyzing large multidimensional datasets or low-frequency radio observations are especially encouraged to apply.

Position Details

• Appointment Duration: Initial appointment for one year with the possibility of renewal for a second year based on performance, and a third year contingent upon funding availability.
• Start Date: Immediate, position will remain open until filled.
• Salary: Annual salary ranges from $60,000 to $65,000 USD, depending on experience.

Application Requirements

Applicants should submit the following:

• A cover letter, including contact information for at least three references
• A CV that includes a list of publications
• A brief (2-page) statement detailing previous work and proposed research

Workplace Requirements
This position is in-person at Rice University in Houston, Texas. Occasional extended hours (after 5 PM and/or weekends) may be required to meet project deadlines. The position is funded by a grant, with continued employment contingent upon funding renewal.

Essential Functions

• Document, analyze, and maintain research data related to star-planet interactions
• Assist in proposal development to secure research funding
• Mentor and oversee junior research team members
• Publish and present research findings
• Support project management and collaboration across institutions
• Design and implement research protocols, adapting methods as needed
• Perform other duties as assigned

Required Qualifications

• PhD in astronomy, astrophysics, physics, or a closely related field

Required Skills

• Proficiency in analyzing large multidimensional astronomical datasets
• Expertise in searching for and analyzing transient astronomical events
• Strong verbal and written communication skills, including oral presentation abilities
• Excellent organizational and time management skills
• Familiarity with modern research methods and data collection techniques
• Understanding of the principles and techniques in physics and astronomy
• Ability to write scholarly papers for publication
• Capacity to work collaboratively and independently with minimal supervision

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience in analyzing low-frequency radio observations
• Background in stellar astrophysics and star-planet interactions

About Rice University
Rice University, located on a beautiful 300-acre campus in Houston, is ranked among the top 20 universities in the nation by U.S. News & World Report. With a 6-to-1 undergraduate student-to-faculty ratio, Rice fosters close-knit, diverse college communities through a robust residential college system that promotes intellectual, emotional, and cultural support.

Commitment to Diversity
Rice University is an Equal Opportunity Employer dedicated to diversity at all levels. We consider qualified applicants for employment without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national or ethnic origin, genetic information, disability, or protected veteran status.

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