Postdoctoral - PAX Group

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JOB DESCRIPTION AND POSITION REQUIREMENTS:

The PAX Group at the Penn State Department of Physics, Department of Astronomy and Astrophysics, and the Institute for Gravitation and the Cosmos has two postdoctoral positions in the general area of gravitational-wave data analysis and science.

The postdoctoral positions are funded in parts by the National Science Foundation and the Eberly College of Science at Penn State. They are focused on harnessing gravitational-wave data from LIGO (Laser Interferometer Gravitational Wave Observatory), Virgo and KAGRA observatories to address problems in fundamental physics, cosmology and astrophysics. The postdoctoral scholars will have the opportunity to work on one or more of several topics of interest to the PAX group, but we also look forward to new skills and expertise that postdoctoral fellows bring to Penn State. These include, but not limited to, analytical modelling of waveforms from binary neutron star and black hole mergers and exploiting gravitational waves to infer the dense matter equation of state, measure cosmological parameters, understand the effect of dark matter in neutron star cores, and explore formation channels of compact binary systems. The postdoctoral scholars will also work on the science metrics for evaluating the performance of the next generation of gravitational wave observatories, such as the Cosmic Explorer and Einstein Telescope, for different design choices.

Education and Experience

Candidates should have a recent Ph.D. in theoretical physics, astrophysics, or a closely related area, and the ability to work productively within a diverse and collaborative research environment, producing and publishing original research, and presenting that research effectively in collaboration meetings, seminars, and scientific meetings.

Additional Information

Please submit a CV, a publication list, a statement of research interest, and three letters of reference (to be sent to bss25@psu.edu). Interested candidates are requested to submit their applications before December 15, 2023, to ensure full consideration. Early reviews of applications will begin by December 1, any candidate who can apply by this earlier date is encouraged to do so. Interviews will be held in the first two weeks of January 2024.

The term appointment will be initially for one year with the opportunity to renew for two more years (one year terms) depending on the availability of funding.

Our lab is committed to advancing diversity and inclusion efforts at Penn State and we encourage individuals who identify as members of groups historically underrepresented in STEM to apply.

The Pennsylvania State University is committed to and accountable for advancing diversity, equity, inclusion, and sustainability in all of its forms. We embrace individual uniqueness, foster a culture of inclusion that supports both broad and specific diversity initiatives, leverage the educational and institutional benefits of diversity in society and nature, and engage all individuals to help them thrive. We value inclusion as a core strength and an essential element of our public service mission.

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