Postdoctoral Researcher in Time Domain Astrophysics

Position Summary

The Department of Physics at Villanova University invites applications for a postdoctoral position in time domain and high-energy astrophysics with Prof. Becka Phillipson. Successful candidates will work on topics broadly related to the study of transient and variable phenomena, with a focus on accreting compact sources (e.g., XRBs, AGN) in preparation for the upcoming Rubin Observatory’s LSST. Projects will draw on new and archival observations from optical ground-based (e.g., Zwicky Transient Facility) and satellite (e.g., TESS) observatories, with potential supplementary data from X-ray observatories, and involve complexity analysis on uniquely variable sources. Applicants with general experience related to these observatories, timing variability of compact sources, time domain methodologies generally, machine learning techniques, OR complexity analysis/nonlinear dynamics are particularly well-matched to the opportunity, but applicants with theoretical expertise related to compact object variability or the aforementioned methodologies are also encouraged to apply. The Villanova Physics Department is dedicated to excellence in teaching and research, and we recognize the importance of involving our undergraduates in cutting-edge research. We are particularly interested in candidates who can contribute in such an atmosphere. Successful candidates will take advantage of opportunities to mentor students in research and in career development. Postdoctoral researchers in the Physics Department also have the opportunity to gain compensated teaching experience in college classrooms. The position is planned for two years, with additional years contingent on the availability of funding.

Duties and Responsibilities

• Analyze/simulate and interpret timing variability of accreting compact sources.
• Help supervise and mentor students working on related topics.
• Teach physics, if desired.

Minimum Qualifications

• PhD (or imminent defense) in Astrophysics, Physics, Math/Statistics, or related field

Preferred Qualifications

• Strong interest and expertise in high-energy astrophysics, particularly in timing analysis

References Needed

• Minimum Number of References Needed: 3
• Maximum Number of References Needed: 3