CIERA Exoplanet Postdoctoral Associate

We invite applications for a postdoctoral scholar to join Northwestern’s Center for Interdisciplinary Exploration and Research in Astrophysics (CIERA) to work with Professor Jason Wang to work on improving the sensitivity of exoplanet imaging for space telescopes using auto-differentiation-based techniques. The postdoctoral associate will have the opportunity to work on developing data reduction and instrument modeling tools for the upcoming Lazuli and Roman space telescopes. The postdoctoral associate is expected to contribute to open-source code bases and to work on areas prioritized by the space missions.

The ideal candidate for this position will possess a background in exoplanet imaging data analysis, instrument calibration, experience with space telescopes, experience with machine learning techniques, and the ability to manage multiple projects. We recognize that finding a candidate with such a diverse background may not be possible, so we encourage anyone with experience in exoplanet imaging data analysis or experience with auto-differentiation-based modeling for astronomy to apply.

The postdoctoral associate will be part of the CIERA community. Successful applicants will benefit from interaction with a broad interdisciplinary group of researchers and will be immersed in a diverse and dynamic intellectual environment (learn more about CIERA’s programs and activities). As a CIERA postdoc, the postdoctoral associate will have access to world-class telescope facilities (Keck, MMT, Magellan, SEDMv2, LS4), as well as CIERA-dedicated high performance computing resources and the services of a dedicated Computational Specialist (see https://ciera.northwestern.edu/high-performance-computing/ for more information).

The postdoctoral associate will receive a competitive salary and benefits and will be employed for a term of two years, with the possibility of a third year.

CIERA is committed to creating a welcoming, safe, and inclusive community for everyone. Every person connected to CIERA, including its visitors, upholds our shared values by seeking diverse perspectives and deliberately working to increase access and equity of people from marginalized groups. We recognize that true excellence only comes from the meaningful integration of all perspectives in our community and culture. CIERA also participates with University-wide diversity & inclusion efforts: Northwestern’s Leadership Commitment, Northwestern’s Office of Equity. 

Northwestern University is an equal opportunity, affirmative action employer and does not discriminate against qualified individuals on the basis of race, color, religion, national origin, sex, pregnancy, sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, parental status, marital status, age, disability, citizenship status, veteran status, genetic information, or any other protected class. Individuals from all diverse backgrounds are encouraged to apply. Hiring is contingent upon eligibility to work in the United States. For more information, please see the University’s Policy on Discrimination and Harassment.