Research Associate in Astronomy

University of Virginia • Charlottesville, VA

6d • $68,000 - $70,000 • Onsite

About The Position

The University of Virginia invites applications for a postdoctoral position with the Targeted Simons Research Group on Dark Matter Dynamics. The group’s primary mission is to build a theoretical framework that translates particle-physics models of dark matter with new forces into galactic predictions. The successful candidate will conduct research connecting numerical simulations, dark matter phenomenology, and current and future observations.

The position is based primarily at the University of Virginia and involves collaboration across several working-group nodes, with particular emphasis on interactions with the University of Maryland. The researcher will work closely with Paul Torrey, Benedikt Diemer, and other collaborators to develop and lead research efforts advancing the group’s scientific goals.

This is a one-year appointment, which may be renewed for an additional year contingent on available funding and satisfactory performance. The anticipated salary is $68,000–$70,000, commensurate with experience. Applications should include a research statement of no more than two pages, excluding references, and a curriculum vitae with publications. Applicants should also arrange for three recommendation letters. For full consideration, applications should be received by December 1, 2026; review begins on that date, and the position remains open until filled. Background checks will be performed on all new hires before employment.

Requirements

• Doctorate degree in Physics, Astronomy, or a closely related field by the start date.

Nice To Haves

• Experience working with hydrodynamical or N-body simulations, including at least one publication in this area.
• Experience developing and executing new simulations is preferred.
• Working knowledge of dark matter phenomenology and/or small-scale structure observables for dark matter, such as dwarf galaxies, streams, or lensing.

Responsibilities

• Conduct research connecting numerical simulations, dark matter phenomenology, and current and future observations.
• Collaborate across working-group nodes, especially with researchers at the University of Maryland.
• Work with Paul Torrey, Benedikt Diemer, and other collaborators to develop and lead research efforts advancing the group’s scientific goals.

What This Job Offers

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