Postdoc position in astrophysics

Job Summary

Category
Post-doctoral Positions and Fellowships
Institution
Purple Mountain Observatory
Number of Positions Available
2
Duration
1 Year
Could the duration be extended?
Yes
Work Arrangement
In-Person
In-Person Location(s)

Nanjing Shi
Jiangsu Sheng,
China

Job Description

One or two postdoctoral positions are available with Prof. Jiangtao Li at the Purple Mountain Observatory (PMO), Nanjing, China.

The positions are open to candidates working in observational, theoretical, or instrumentation related astrophysics, provided the work is science driven. Observational projects may involve any wavelength from radio to X-ray, while theoretical work may include analytical modeling or numerical simulations. Possible research topics include nearby galaxies, high-redshift objects, and high-energy astrophysics, such as supernova remnants or compact objects.

Prospective applicants may consult Prof. Li’s personal website for examples of current research projects (see the CV or Research and Teaching/Proposals sections):
https://sites.google.com/a/umich.edu/jiangtaoli2

However, the position is not limited to existing projects. Applicants with new research ideas that overlap broadly with the group’s scientific interests are strongly encouraged to apply.

The initial appointment is for one year, with the possibility of renewal for up to two additional years, contingent on performance and the availability of funding. The salary follows the standard postdoctoral salary scale at PMO. Postdocs are also encouraged to apply for external fellowships and grants, which can typically provide additional (higher) salary support.

Compensation and Benefits

Compensation Type
Salary
Currency
349
Compensation Range
$250,000USD to $300,000USD
Included Benefits

postdoc housing or stipend

institute transportation shuttle

institute canteen

insurances

free institute stadium

free parking

Compensation Notes

The Purple Mountain Observatory Xianlin campus is located in the eastern outskirts of Nanjing, in a newly developed urban area with an excellent natural environment. The campus offers convenient access to transportation, shopping, and other amenities, while maintaining a relatively low cost of living compared to many major cities.

The institute is located within a five-minute walk of the School of Astronomy and Space Science at Nanjing University, one of the leading astronomy departments in China. This proximity enables frequent interactions, seminars, and collaborative research opportunities between the two institutions.

Application Details

Application Instructions
Applicants should submit the following materials:

Curriculum Vitae
Statement of past research
Future research plan
(Optional) cover letter

Applications should be sent by email to: [email protected]

The proposed research plan does not need to align exactly with the group’s current projects. Innovative ideas and complementary expertise, especially those related to Chinese missions (X-ray, optical, radio, etc.), are often more valuable than strict overlap with existing work.

Including the birth year in the application materials is optional but encouraged.

There is no strict page limit, but applicants are encouraged to keep both the research statement and research plan to no more than three pages each.

Applications will begin to be reviewed on April 16, 2026, and will continue until the positions are filled.
Publication Start Date
2026 Mar 05
Application Deadline
2026 Apr 16

Inquiries

Name
Li, Jiangtao

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