Research Associate in Astronomy

UVA Health • Charlottesville, VA

6d • $68,000 - $70,000 • Onsite

About The Position

The University of Virginia Department of Astronomy invites applications for multiple Postdoctoral Research Associate positions supported by the Galaxy Evolution and COsmology Initiative (GECO), the Virginia Institute for Theoretical Astronomy (VITA), and the Virginia Initiative on Cosmic Origins (VICO). Research areas span theoretical and observational astronomy, including galaxy evolution and cosmology; exoplanet and stellar astrophysics; planetary science and formation; astrochemistry; astrobiology; star formation; and computational astrophysics.

Associates will have access to the department’s telescope resources, UVA high-performance research computing facilities, and research partnerships and collaborations including the Sloan Digital Sky Survey, LSST Discovery Alliance, Simons Observatory, Dark Energy Spectroscopic Instrument, and NRAO. They will participate in departmental activities, mentor students, and promote wider collaboration. Professional networking and development opportunities are available through the PhDPlus Program and UVA Postdoctoral Association.

Positions are based in Charlottesville and begin as one-year appointments, renewable for up to two additional one-year increments, contingent on satisfactory performance and funding availability. A competitive salary and benefits package is offered, along with a research budget for equipment purchases, travel, networking, and collaboration. Applicants must hold a Ph.D. in astronomy, astrophysics, physics, or a related discipline by the appointment start date. Applications are reviewed beginning December 1, 2026, and the positions remain open until filled.

Requirements

• A Ph.D. in astronomy, astrophysics, physics, or a related discipline by the appointment start date.

Responsibilities

• Conduct research in areas relevant to GECO, VITA, and/or VICO.
• Participate in departmental activities.
• Mentor students.
• Promote wider collaboration.

Benefits

• Competitive salary and benefits package.
• Research budget to support equipment purchases, travel, networking, and collaboration.
• Professional development and networking opportunities through the PhDPlus Program and UVA Postdoctoral Association.

What This Job Offers

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