Assistant Project Scientist - Department of Astronomy & Astrophysics

Position Overview

The Department of Astronomy & Astrophysics in the School of Physical Sciences at UC San Diego invites applications for a non-tenured Assistant Project Scientist specializing in theoretical planet formation and exoplanet science. The selected candidate will join the research group of Professor Eve Lee.

Project Scientists at UC San Diego contribute significantly to research efforts, collaborating with faculty in advancing scientific programs. While they do not carry formal teaching responsibilities or lead research teams independently, they are expected to participate actively in research, publish scholarly work, and serve as Co-Principal Investigators when appropriate.

Salary Information

A reasonable estimate for this position is $76,700. Salary is determined according to the UC academic salary scales:

• UC Academic Personnel Salary Scales: (posted link in the original text)

• Salary Table for this series: (posted link in the original text)

Compensation will be commensurate with qualifications and experience.

Application Window

• Open Date: December 4, 2025

• Next Review Date: January 5, 2026 at 11:59 PM (Pacific Time)

• Applications submitted by this date will receive full consideration.

• Final Date: December 1, 2026 at 11:59 PM (Pacific Time)

• Applications received after the review date will be considered only if the position remains unfilled.

Position Description

The Assistant Project Scientist will:

• Conduct research in theoretical planet formation and exoplanet science.

• Contribute creatively to a collaborative research team.

• Publish scholarly work under the supervision of faculty in the Professor or Research Scientist series.

• Engage in university and public service (encouraged but not required).

• Participate in research activities that may involve numerical hydrodynamics and high-performance computational modeling.

Project Scientists cannot serve as Principal Investigators but may serve as Co-PIs with eligible faculty.

Qualifications

• Basic Qualifications (at time of application): Ph.D. in Astronomy, Physics, or a closely related field.

• Additional Qualifications (at time of hire): Demonstrated proficiency in numerical hydrodynamics methods.

• Preferred Qualifications: Experience using one or more of the following codes:

  • Athena++
  • FARGO3D
  • GIZMO

Application Requirements

• Documents: Curriculum Vitae (required), Statement of Research (required), Cover Letter (optional), Additional Materials (optional).

• References: 3–5 letters of reference required, at least 3 letters must be submitted for full consideration.

About UC San Diego

UC San Diego is a leading public research university committed to academic excellence and diversity. The university prohibits discrimination and upholds federal and state guidelines ensuring equal opportunity in employment.

Additional Information

• UC San Diego is a smoke- and tobacco-free campus.

• All new employees must comply with UC policies and any applicable collective bargaining agreements.

• Applicants may be required to disclose past findings of misconduct in compliance with state legislation, including Assembly Bill 810 and Senate Bill 791.

• Annual Security & Fire Safety Report: (posted link in the original text)

Job Location

San Diego, California