Post Doctoral Research Associate - High-Redshift Quasar Studies with JWST

Applications are invited for a postdoctoral appointment focused on the study of high-redshift quasars at the Hawai’i operations center of the International Gemini Observatory/NSF NOIRLab. The successful candidate will work with Dr. Ema Farina and their collaborators to explore the nature of supermassive black holes and their host galaxies during the first billion years of cosmic history. They will also join Gemini North’s vibrant extragalactic research community  (https://www.gemini.edu/about/contact-us/gemini-research-staff).

The position’s primary goal is to advance our understanding of the first massive black holes by investigating their close galactic environment, by spatially resolving their host galaxies, and by accurately measuring their physical properties. This research will utilize deep IFS data from JWST/NIRSpec Cycle 2 and 3 GO programs, supplemented by ground-based observations of high-redshift quasars. Responsibilities include NIRSpec IFS data reduction, high-level data processing, and analysis tasks such as PSF subtraction.

Position Details:

• Full-time, two-year appointment, with potential extension subject to funding.
• Applications received by January 31, 2025, will receive full consideration; the position will remain open until filled.
• The nominal start date is Spring/Summer 2025 (but other dates are negotiable).

Required Qualifications:

• PhD in Astronomy or a related field.
• Proficiency in Python programming.
• Experience in studying high-redshift quasars and/or galaxies.
• Preferred: Prior experience with JWST/NIRSpec data and general expertise with IFS.

Key Attributes:

• Self-motivated, independent, and highly organized.

Questions about the position can be directed to [email protected] .

Physical Demands:

The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.  

This work is mostly carried out in an office environment. Long periods of sitting may be required. For full list of physical please see official job description. Some Travel may be necessary in or outside the contiguous United States.

Veterans, disabled individuals or wounded warriors needing assistance with the employment process should request assistance at [email protected]  

Salary Range: $65,000 - $72,000. The final salary will depend on skills, qualifications, and experience. 

The position will remain open until it is filled. To be considered in the first round of reviews, please submit your application by January 31, 2025. 

• Applications should include: (1) a cover letter, (2) a curriculum vitae including publications, (3) a concise research statement including any relevant technical experience, and (4) a list of 3 referees. Letters of recommendation will be requested for shortlisted applicants after the deadline.
• Application documents that are not uploaded as part of the application may be sent to [email protected].