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Postdoctoral Scholar HWO
Job Summary
Category
Post-doctoral Positions and Fellowships
Institution
The Ohio State University
Department
Department of Astronomy
Number of Positions Available
1
Duration
3 Years
Work Arrangement
In-Person
In-Person Location(s)
Columbus, OH
United States
Job Description
The Ohio State University Department of Astronomy invites applications for a postdoctoral research position focused on the development and planning of living worlds science goals of the NASA’s Habitable Worlds Observatory. Expertise in the atmospheric characterization of Earth-like exoplanets through reflected light spectroscopy, spectral retrieval analysis of directly-imaged exoplanets, habitability and biosignatures of temperate terrestrial planets, or the detection and characterization of exoplanets using astrometry, is beneficial.
Applicants must have a PhD in astronomy, astrophysics, astrobiology, or a related field by the start date of the appointment. Candidates should have strong scientific programming skills using modern languages such as Python or C++. Expertise in statistical analysis, machine learning, and data-driven modeling is highly desirable. Appointment is contingent on the university’s verification of credentials and other information required by law and/or university policies, including but not limited to a criminal background check.
Assets of the Ohio State department include a 1/6 observing share of the Large Binocular Telescope, a 1/4 share of MDM observatory, membership in SDSS-V, substantial institutional presence in DES, DESI, and ASAS-SN, and a lively scientific environment. Information about faculty and their research programs can be found at https://astronomy.osu.edu/."
Compensation and Benefits
Compensation Type
Salary
Currency
467
Compensation Range
$65,000USD to $70,000USD
Included Benefits
The Ohio State University Benefits: https://hr.osu.edu/benefits/
Compensation Notes
The appointments will begin in Fall 2026 or earlier and run for two years with extension to a third year possible based on performance and availability of funds. The target hiring range is$65,000-$70,000. The actual salary will fall within this range based on internal equity, the candidate's qualifications, and available funding.
Application Details
Application Instructions
Applications should include:
1. A cover letter which includes a motivation for applying for the position, and the names, institutions, and email addresses of at least three individuals who can provide recommendation letters upon request.
2. A curriculum vitae.
3. A list of research publications (either separately or as part of the CV).
4. A brief description (3 pages maximum) of past and proposed future research.
We strongly prefer that these be provided as a single PDF document with the elements given in the order listed above. Application materials must be submitted via the following URL: https://osu.wd1.myworkdayjobs.com/OSUCareers/job/Columbus-Campus/Postdoctoral-Scholar_R155245
Applications will be reviewed until the position is filled. Applying before September 1, 2026 is strongly recommended.
To build a strong workforce Ohio State encourages applications from individuals with diverse backgrounds. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation or identity, national origin, disability status, or protected veteran status. Flexible work options are available. Ohio States is an EEO/AA employer, and an NSF Advance Institution.
1. A cover letter which includes a motivation for applying for the position, and the names, institutions, and email addresses of at least three individuals who can provide recommendation letters upon request.
2. A curriculum vitae.
3. A list of research publications (either separately or as part of the CV).
4. A brief description (3 pages maximum) of past and proposed future research.
We strongly prefer that these be provided as a single PDF document with the elements given in the order listed above. Application materials must be submitted via the following URL: https://osu.wd1.myworkdayjobs.com/OSUCareers/job/Columbus-Campus/Postdoctoral-Scholar_R155245
Applications will be reviewed until the position is filled. Applying before September 1, 2026 is strongly recommended.
To build a strong workforce Ohio State encourages applications from individuals with diverse backgrounds. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation or identity, national origin, disability status, or protected veteran status. Flexible work options are available. Ohio States is an EEO/AA employer, and an NSF Advance Institution.
Link to Online Application
Publication Start Date
2026 Jul 22
Application Deadline
2026 Sep 01