Postdoctoral Research Associate - Department of Physics and Astronomy

The Department of Physics and Astronomy at West Virginia University (WVU) invites applications for a Postdoctoral Research Associate position. The research group of Dr. Sarah Burke-Spolaor seeks outstanding, highly motivated postdoctoral researchers interested in enabling the multi-messenger era of supermassive black holes. The incumbent will conduct research in areas related to multi-messenger astronomy, focusing on radio and other wavelength studies of Active Galactic Nuclei (AGN) in the context of pulsar timing arrays and LISA.

About the role

This is a full-time, benefits-eligible position initially appointed for one year, with an expectation of continuation for a total of three years. The successful candidate will work closely with the research group of Dr. Burke-Spolaor, interface with other members of WVU's Department of Physics and Astronomy and its Center for Gravitational Waves and Cosmology (GWAC), and collaborate with senior members of NANOGrav and other WVU faculty involved in LIGO and LISA collaborations.

Responsibilities

• Study of active galactic nuclei as candidate binary massive black hole sources with a focus on radio observations.
• Research with a focus on enabling the era of multi-messenger astronomy with supermassive and intermediate-mass binary black holes.
• Design follow-up campaigns for multi-messenger and multi-wavelength detections of binary supermassive black holes.
• Independent research in topics related to multi-messenger science.
• Assist and mentor graduate and undergraduate students.

Requirements

• A Ph.D. in astrophysics, physics, or related field is required.
• Working knowledge of active galactic nuclei is preferred.
• Experience with large survey data, pulsar timing arrays, and/or radio astronomical data reduction (long-baseline interferometry) is desirable.

Qualifications

• Excellent written and oral communication skills.
• Mentoring experience.
• Demonstrated excellent interpersonal skills.

Application

To apply, please visit WVU Careers and upload the following: 1) a curriculum vitae; 2) an application letter discussing relevant experience and interest in the research area; and 3) contact information for three references that can provide recommendation letters. The screening process begins on March 16, 2026 and continues until the position is filled. For more information, contact Dr. Sarah Burke-Spolaor at sarah.spolaor@mail.wvu.edu.

Morgantown, WV is a growing university city offering abundant outdoor recreation and cultural opportunities. It is within easy driving distance of Pittsburgh, PA (70 mi) and Washington DC and Columbus, OH (200 mi).

West Virginia University is an Equal Opportunity Employer. We invite all qualified applicants regardless of race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, disability, genetic information, or Veteran status.