Postdoctoral Research Scholar in Exoplanet Atmospheres

Arizona State University • Tempe, AZ

8d • Onsite

About The Position

Arizona State University’s School of Earth and Space Exploration invites applications for a postdoctoral research position with Professor Luis Welbanks. The scholar will characterize exoplanet atmospheres using James Webb Space Telescope (JWST) data and help advance atmospheric modeling and retrieval techniques, including Bayesian frameworks, photochemistry integration, radiative-convective equilibrium modeling, and multidimensional retrievals. The scholar will join a collaborative, interdisciplinary team analyzing JWST spectroscopic datasets to investigate the chemical and physical processes shaping exoplanet atmospheres.

Research will focus on one or both of two projects: improving data-driven atmospheric models to refine understanding of exoplanet properties, or characterizing the metallicity, water content, and diversity of young sub-Neptune atmospheres. Researchers with expertise in reducing JWST spectroscopic observations are encouraged to apply.

This is a full-time, benefits-eligible position located on ASU’s Tempe Campus, where physical presence is required. Working from another location requires additional approvals, which are not guaranteed. The anticipated start date is September 1, 2027. The initial appointment is one year and may be renewed annually for up to two additional years, contingent on satisfactory performance, university needs, and available resources. The annual salary is $75,000, with $5,000 in relocation expense.

Requirements

• Ph.D. in Astronomy, Planetary Science, Astrophysics, or a closely related field by the start date.
• Expertise in atmospheric modeling and retrieval techniques, such as Bayesian frameworks, radiative-convective equilibrium modeling, or photochemical modeling.
• Demonstrated ability to analyze and interpret spectroscopic datasets from JWST or similar instruments.
• Demonstrated programming skills, including experience with statistical and computational tools relevant to atmospheric characterization.
• A record of publication in peer-reviewed journals demonstrating expertise in exoplanetary or atmospheric sciences.

Nice To Haves

• Experience with advanced statistical techniques, including Bayesian cross-validation and data-driven methods for atmospheric retrievals.
• Proficiency in photochemical and self-consistent atmospheric modeling, especially integrating chemistry with radiative-convective frameworks.
• Familiarity with analyzing transmission spectra, emission spectra, and phase curves, especially from JWST instruments such as NIRISS or NIRSpec.
• Knowledge of sub-Neptune atmospheric composition and evolution, including cloud physics and water-world formation processes.
• Demonstrated ability to combine atmospheric and interior modeling or analyze observational data across multiple wavelengths.
• Demonstrated commitment to collaborating with faculty members, staff, students, and external partners to advance the principles of the ASU Charter.

Responsibilities

• Analyze JWST spectroscopic data, including transmission spectra, emission spectra, and phase curves, to characterize exoplanet atmospheres.
• Develop and refine atmospheric retrieval models, incorporating Bayesian and self-consistent frameworks to evaluate chemical and physical processes in planetary atmospheres.
• Conduct photochemical and radiative-convective equilibrium modeling to advance understanding of exoplanetary and sub-Neptune systems.
• Collaborate with interdisciplinary research teams to integrate atmospheric and interior modeling approaches.
• Prepare manuscripts for publication in peer-reviewed journals and present findings at scientific conferences.
• Mentor undergraduate and graduate students.

Benefits

• Benefits-eligible position
• $5,000 relocation expense

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Entry Level
• Education Level: Ph.D. or professional degree