Post-Doctoral position in Extragalactic Astrophysics (JWST)

Job Summary

Category
Post-doctoral Positions and Fellowships
Institution
Center for Astrophysics | Harvard & Smithsonian
Department
Harvard College Observatory
Number of Positions Available
1
Duration
2 Years
Could the duration be extended?
Yes
Work Arrangement
In-Person
In-Person Location(s)

Cambridge, MA
United States

Job Description

The Harvard College Observatory invites applications for one or more postdoctoral positions in extragalactic astrophysics, with a focus on observational studies using the James Webb Space Telescope (JWST).

The successful candidate will work with Prof. Daniel Eisenstein and collaborators on the analysis and interpretation of JWST data, with particular emphasis on deep-field observations. The position provides access to large, high-impact JWST datasets and opportunities to contribute to multiple ongoing programs, as well as to a broader portfolio of datasets through the JWST Advanced Deep Extragalactic Survey (JADES) collaboration.
 

The postdoctoral researcher will contribute to ongoing JWST programs and collaborative projects, while being strongly encouraged to develop an independent research program. The postdoc is expected to lead and contribute to publications and will have opportunities to take on leadership roles within collaborative projects.
 

Research topics include, but are not limited to:

  • Galaxy formation and evolution across cosmic time
  • Spectroscopic studies of galaxies and AGN at intermediate to high redshift
  • Analysis of JWST slit and/or slitless spectroscopy datasets and/or JWST imaging datasets
  • Development of methods for large spectroscopic surveys and data products
     

This is a two-year term appointment from date of hire with the possibility of renewal for a third year contingent upon the availability of funding and performance. The nominal starting date will be September 1, 2026, but an earlier or later start is negotiable.

Compensation and Benefits

Compensation Type
Salary
Currency
467
Compensation Range
$67,600USD to $72,500USD

Application Details

Application Instructions
Applicants should have:
A Ph.D. in astronomy, astrophysics, or a related field by the start date
Demonstrated experience in extragalactic astrophysics
Strong background in observational data analysis, particularly with JWST data.

To apply, please submit:
Cover Letter
Curriculum Vitae
Research statement (2-3 pages)
Three (3) letters of recommendation.

Applications received by May 31, 2026 will receive full consideration.
Publication Start Date
2026 Apr 29
Application Deadline
2026 May 31

Inquiries

Name
Daniel Eisenstein

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