Post Doctoral Researcher for AGN Investigations with JWST

Space Telescope Science Institute • Baltimore, MD

1d

About The Position

The Space Telescope Science Institute (STScI) invites applications for a
postdoctoral researcher position to work with Dr. Travis C. Fischer, Dr. Darshan
Kakkad, and Dr. Vincenzo Mainieri on JWST investigations of AGN feedback, shock
physics, and the response of the interstellar medium in both nearby and distant
galaxies. The successful applicant will contribute to a coordinated set of JWST
observing programs focused on how AGN-driven outflows affect molecular gas,
ionized gas, dust, and star formation.

The position is centered on analysis of multiple JWST programs, together with
exploitation of the JWST archive, including two Cycle 2 MIRI programs and a
newly awarded Cycle 5 program. One Cycle 2 program targets warm molecular gas in
AGN and star-forming galaxies at z~2.2, testing whether AGN hosts show
systematically different warm gas content than matched non-AGN systems. A second
Cycle 2 program uses JWST/MIRI to map PAH emission in four AGN at z~2 with known
ionized outflows, with the goal of determining how feedback affects recent star
formation at cosmic noon. The Cycle 5 program will use JWST NIRSpec and MIRI IFU
spectroscopy of nearby NGC 4258 to measure the molecular and ionized gas physics
in three shock-dominated regions at parsec-scale resolution, with particular
emphasis on distinguishing shock regimes and clarifying the nature of
radio-emitting structures in radio-quiet AGN.

The postdoctoral researcher will take a leading role in reducing and analyzing
JWST IFU datasets, developing scientific interpretations across programs, and
publishing results in collaboration with a broad international team. Areas of
work may include emission-line analysis, molecular and ionized gas diagnostics,
spatially resolved spectroscopy, AGN feedback, shock excitation, star formation
diagnostics, and comparison of nearby and high-redshift systems. Depending on
the interests of the successful applicant, there may also be opportunities to
help develop new related projects and pursue independent research aligned with
the broader scientific goals of the program.

The successful applicant will benefit from a stimulating research environment
rich in colloquia, journal clubs, symposia, and interactions with scientists
working across HST, JWST, and Roman science. STScI also maintains strong ties
with Mainieri of European Southern Observatory, Kakkad at University for
Hertfordshire- UK, and nearby Johns Hopkins University. The position offers
excellent benefits and a competitive salary commensurate with year of PhD. The
nominal start date is Fall 2026, though some flexibility may be possible.

Requirements

• Applicants should hold a Ph.D. in Astronomy, Physics, or a related field by the start date of the appointment.

Nice To Haves

• JWST data reduction and analysis, especially MIRI and/or NIRSpec spectroscopy
• Integral field spectroscopy and spatially resolved studies of galaxies or AGN
• Molecular gas, ionized gas, or dust diagnostics in galaxies
• AGN feedback, galactic outflows, shock excitation, or star formation in galaxy nuclei
• Development of analysis tools for spectroscopic datasets
• The strongest candidates will demonstrate the ability to work both independently and collaboratively, communicate scientific results clearly, and bring complex observational programs to publication.
• More important than experience in every listed area is the willingness to take on new projects, learn new skills, and work to bring these projects to fruition.

Responsibilities

• Reducing and analyzing JWST IFU datasets
• Developing scientific interpretations across programs
• Publishing results in collaboration with a broad international team

Benefits

• excellent benefits
• competitive salary commensurate with year of PhD

What This Job Offers

• Career Level: Entry Level
• Education Level: Ph.D. or professional degree
• Number of Employees: 251-500 employees