Postdoctoral Researchers - Time Domain and Multi-Messenger Astrophysics

About the role

The Department of Astronomy and Astrophysics at Penn State invites applicants for two Postdoctoral Researcher positions to work with Professor Jimmy DeLaunay and collaborators.

Responsibilities

• Work with the Fermi GBM and Swift-BAT GUANO teams to search for hard X-ray to gamma-ray transients in real-time as well as archivally over the decades of Fermi’s and Swift’s lifetime.
• Perform multi-messenger and transient population studies.
• Improve transient search pipelines.
• Analyze large quantities of data.
• Classify newly discovered, interesting transients.
• Conduct detailed studies of newly discovered, interesting transients.
• Publish scientific results.

Requirements

• A Ph.D. in Astronomy, Physics, or a related field is required.
• Experience with HPC systems, machine learning, and GRB monitor data analysis would be an advantage.

Qualifications

• Strong research background.
• Excellent communication skills.
• Ability to work independently and collaboratively.

Skills

• Proficiency in Python, R, or similar programming languages.
• Experience with HPC systems.
• Knowledge of machine learning techniques.
• Experience with GRB monitor data analysis.

Benefits

• Postdoctoral benefits package.

Pay

• Salary is commensurate with experience.

Schedule

• The expected start date is August 2026, but is negotiable.

Additional Information

• Applications must be submitted electronically and include a cover letter, statement of research interests, a CV, and a list of publications.
• Please arrange for three professional reference letters to be sent to jjd330@psu.edu.
• Questions regarding the application process can be directed to Professor Jimmy DeLaunay at jjd330@psu.edu.
• Review of applications will begin May 8, 2026, and continue until the position is filled. Applications received by May 7th will receive full consideration.

Background checks/clearances

Employment with the University will require successful completion of background check(s) in accordance with University policies.

Benefits

• Penn State provides a competitive benefits package for full-time employees designed to support both personal and professional well-being.

Equal Opportunity Employer

Penn State is an equal opportunity employer and is committed to providing employment opportunities to all qualified applicants without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability or protected veteran status.

Contact Information

• Email: jjd330@psu.edu
• Phone: 814-865-1473