Post Doctoral Researcher in Stellar Populations

Space Telescope Science Institute • Baltimore, MD

43d • Onsite

About The Position

The Space Telescope Science Institute (STScI) invites highly motivated individuals to apply for a post-doctoral researcher position to work on observational studies of nearby galaxies with Dr. Kristen McQuinn. The science theme of the position is Near-Field Cosmology. The successful applicant will play a leading role on projects covering a range of science topics including: the star formation histories of low-mass galaxies, the local extragalactic distance scale to resolve the Hubble tension, constraining the baryonic-to-dark matter ratios in dwarfs, and the discovery and characterization of ultra-faint dwarfs. The projects include observations primarily of resolved stars in local galaxies from the Hubble Space Telescope (HST), the James Webb Space Telescope (JWST), and/or simulated/real data for the upcoming Roman Space Telescope. The successful applicant may also have limited time available for independent research or new projects. The nominal start date is Summer 2026, but other dates are negotiable. The initial appointment is for one year, with an expected renewal for additional three years based on satisfactory performance and availability of funding. The successful applicant 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, and Roman). Any questions about the position should be directed [email protected]

Requirements

• Applicants must hold a Ph.D. degree in Astronomy, Astrophysics, or a related field at the start of the post-doctoral researcher position.
• Expertise in one or more of the following areas in desirable: (a) resolved stellar populations; (b) nearby galaxies; (c) data reduction of imaging; (e) stellar evolution; (f) resolved star search algorithms/machine learning techniques.
• Willingness to take on new projects, learn new skills, and work independently to bring these projects to fruition.

Responsibilities

• Play a leading role on projects covering a range of science topics including: the star formation histories of low-mass galaxies, the local extragalactic distance scale to resolve the Hubble tension, constraining the baryonic-to-dark matter ratios in dwarfs, and the discovery and characterization of ultra-faint dwarfs.
• Observations primarily of resolved stars in local galaxies from the Hubble Space Telescope (HST), the James Webb Space Telescope (JWST), and/or simulated/real data for the upcoming Roman Space Telescope.

Benefits

• STScI, located on Johns Hopkins University Campus in Baltimore, Maryland, offers an excellent benefit package, competitive salaries, and a stimulating work environment.
• STScI's pay is commensurate to the year of Ph.D.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Entry Level
• Industry: Religious, Grantmaking, Civic, Professional, and Similar Organizations
• Education Level: Ph.D. or professional degree
• Number of Employees: 501-1,000 employees