Postdoctoral Research Associate, JASPER Scholar (Steward Observatory) (Multiple Positions)

The University of Arizona Department of Astronomy and Steward Observatory invites applications for the JWST/Roman Arizona-Steward Postdocs in Early Galaxies and Reionization (JASPER) Scholar positions.

The University of Arizona is a center of JWST and Roman Space Telescope research. In the area of early galaxy formation and reionization, Arizona scientists are leading a wide range of JWST and Roman programs to study the first galaxies, high-redshift quasars and supermassive black hole evolution, early large-scale structures, the intergalactic medium, gravitational lensing, and cosmic reionization.

JASPER Scholars are expected to collaborate with one or more JWST/Roman science teams. They will fully participate in data reduction and scientific analysis in these programs as well as in complimentary programs using HST and ground-based telescopes. JASPER Scholars are also encouraged to conduct their independent research programs with up to 50% of their research time. For one of the positions, we are particularly interested in candidates who can contribute to the analysis of cluster-lensing data (e.g., VENUS, Dragon Arc).

The University of Arizona Steward Observatory offers a world-class research environment in space science and astrophysics with strong interdisciplinary programs across the Departments of Astronomy, Physics, Optical Sciences, and Planetary Sciences. We provide direct access to various world-class observational and computational facilities for ground-based radio and optical observing.

Start dates range from August 2027 to November 2027.

Outstanding U of A benefits include health, dental, vision, and life insurance; paid vacation, sick leave, and holidays; U of A/ASU/NAU tuition reduction for the employee and qualified family members; access to U of A recreation and cultural activities; and more!

The University of Arizona has been recognized for our innovative work-life programs. For more information about working at the University of Arizona and relocations services, please click here.

• Collaborate with one or more of the JWST and Roman projects on galaxy formation, quasars, gravitational lensing, and reionization, to work on data and scientific analysis as well as using data from the Hubble Space Telescope, ALMA and other telescopes.
• Carry out independent research in the areas of galaxy formation, supermassive black holes, quasars and AGN, gravitational lensing, and reionization.
• Develop and implement research initiatives, collaborations, publications, and/or events (e.g., talks, workshops, visitor programs, etc.) as needed and relevant to research agendas.
• Collaborate with faculty and scholars to foster a supportive academic environment (including organizing collaborative meetings, supervising/mentoring graduate and undergraduate students).
• Additional duties as assigned.

• Must have completed all the
  requirements for a Ph.D. in Astronomy, Physics, Astrophysics, or a related science
  at the time of hire.

• Research experience relevant to one or more of the following scientific areas: galaxy evolution, supermassive black holes, intergalactic medium, quasars and AGN, gravitational lensing and data reduction experience with JWST or Roman imaging and spectroscopy.

OR

With your application, please submit the following documents:

1. CV (limit: 2 pages)
2. Cover Letter, including names of three references that will be contacted at a later time
3. Research Statement (limit: 5 pages)
4. List of Publications

For full consideration, please submit your application by January 5, 2027. Review of applications will begin on January 6, 2027.