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Post Doctoral Researcher for AGN Investigations with JWST

Space Telescope Science Institute · Baltimore, MD · 2 mo ago
HybridAnalystFull-time

Job Summary

The Space Telescope Science Institute (STScI) invites applications for a postdoctoral researcher position to work on JWST investigations of AGN feedback, shock physics, and the response of the interstellar medium in both nearby and distant galaxies. The successful applicant will contribute to a coordinated set of JWST observing programs.

About the Role

The position is centered on analysis of multiple JWST programs, including two Cycle 2 MIRI programs and a newly awarded Cycle 5 program. The successful applicant will take a leading role in reducing and analyzing JWST IFU datasets, developing scientific interpretations across programs, and publishing results in collaboration with a broad international team.

Responsibilities

  • Contribute to a coordinated set of JWST observing programs focused on how AGN-driven outflows affect molecular gas, ionized gas, dust, and star formation.
  • Take a leading role in reducing and analyzing JWST IFU datasets.
  • Develop scientific interpretations across programs.
  • Publish results in collaboration with a broad international team.
  • Areas of work may include emission-line analysis, molecular and ionized gas diagnostics, spatially resolved spectroscopy, AGN feedback, shock excitation, star formation diagnostics, and comparison of nearby and high-redshift systems.
  • May also have opportunities to help develop new related projects and pursue independent research aligned with the broader scientific goals of the program.

Requirements

  • Hold a Ph.D. in Astronomy, Physics, or a related field by the start date of the appointment.
  • Expertise in one or more of the following areas is desirable: JWST data reduction and analysis, especially MIRI and/or NIRSpec spectroscopy, integral field spectroscopy and spatially resolved studies of galaxies or AGN, molecular gas, ionized gas, or dust diagnostics in galaxies, AGN feedback, galactic outflows, shock excitation, or star formation in galaxy nuclei, development of analysis tools for spectroscopic datasets.
  • The strongest candidates will demonstrate the ability to work both independently and collaboratively, communicate scientific results clearly, and bring complex observational programs to publication.

Qualifications

  • The successful candidate will benefit from a stimulating research environment rich in colloquia, journal clubs, symposia, and interactions with scientists working across HST, JWST, and Roman science.
  • STScI also maintains strong ties with Mainieri of European Southern Observatory, Kakkad at University for Hertfordshire- UK, and nearby Johns Hopkins University.
  • The position offers excellent benefits and a competitive salary commensurate with year of PhD.
  • The nominal start date is Fall 2026, though some flexibility may be possible.

Benefits

  • Excellent benefits and a competitive salary commensurate with year of PhD.

Schedule

  • Nominal start date is Fall 2026, though some flexibility may be possible.

Pay

  • Competitive salary commensurate with year of PhD.

Skills

  • Willingness to take on new projects, learn new skills, and work to bring these projects to fruition.

Benefits

  • Excellent benefits.

Application Instructions

Applicants should submit: a cover letter, a curriculum vitae, a publication list, a research statement of approximately 3 pages describing relevant experience, current interests, and future research goals, and three letters of reference. Applications received by June 5, 2026 will receive full consideration. Please use this link to submit your application: https://stsci.slideroom.com/#/permalink/program/88831. Questions about the scientific aspects of the position may be directed to Dr. Travis C. Fischer at tfischer@stsci.edu. Questions regarding the application process may be directed to careers@stsci.edu.

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