Job Information
University of Kansas Postdoctoral Researcher in Lawrence, Kansas
30037BR
Job Title:
Postdoctoral Researcher
Department:
Physics and Astronomy
Primary Campus:
University of Kansas Lawrence Campus
Job Description:
Conduct research in observational and/or theoretical exoplanetary atmospheric astrophysics as part of Prof. Crossfield’s ExoLab research program, in particular in the detailed characterization of exoplanetary atmospheres. Depending on the successful applicant’s strengths and interests, this work will involve some or all of: calculating model planetary atmospheres, chemistry, aerosols, and synthetic spectra; deriving physical parameters from observations; conducting and/or proposing for observations; and other work related to exoplanetary spectra, abundance, and other physical parameters. This also entails participation in relevant facets of the group’s research endeavors ranging from data analysis, software development, publication preparation, grant proposal preparation, editorial work, presentation of results, outreach and career development, and travel as required for work duties.
Specific Job Duties (percentage of time):
80% - Analysis of data and/or calculation of new models, and related work. Documentation, presentation and publication of research results.
20% - Assist the faculty in guiding the group's graduate and undergraduate students, and with outreach and Broader Impact efforts.
Req ID (Ex: 10567BR) :
30037BR
Disclaimer:
The University of Kansas prohibits discrimination on the basis of race, color, ethnicity, religion, sex, national origin, age, ancestry, disability, status as a veteran, sexual orientation, marital status, parental status, gender identity, gender expression, and genetic information in the university's programs and activities. Retaliation is also prohibited by university policy. The following person has been designated to handle inquiries regarding the nondiscrimination policies and is the Title IX coordinator for all KU and KUMC campuses: Associate Vice Chancellor for Civil Rights and Title IX, civilrights@ku.edu, Room 1082, Dole Human Development Center, 1000 Sunnyside Avenue, Lawrence, KS 66045, 785-864-6414, 711 TTY.
Work Schedule:
M-F; 8-5
FLSA Status:
Professional
Conditions of Employment:
Contingent on Funding, Limited Term
Contact Information to Applicants:
Ian Crossfield; ianc@ku.edu
Limited Term End Date:
01-Sep-2025
Required Qualifications:
Evaluation of the required qualification and preferred qualification will be made through
(1) records of accomplishments entered in CV
(2) description of research and education experience provided in the application materials
(3) references
(4) publications as appropriate.
Required Qualification:
- A Ph.D. in physics, astronomy, astrophysics, or a related field by date of appointment
NOTE: To be appointed at the Postdoctoral Researcher title, it is necessary to have the PhD in hand. Appointments made without a diploma or certified transcript indicating an earned doctorate are conditional hires and are appointed on an acting basis not to exceed 6 months.
Employee Class:
U-Unclassified Professional Staff
Advertised Salary Range:
$59,000 - $70,000, commensurate with experience and qualifications
FTE:
1.0
Preferred Qualifications:
Experience and ability in reduction & analysis of exoplanetary spectra and/or related data products, as evidenced in application materials.
Experience and ability with conducting, interpreting, and/or successfully proposing for astronomical observations, as evidenced in application materials.
Experience in constructing model atmospheres and synthetic spectra, as evidenced in application materials.
Experience in experimental techniques and software relevant to astrophysical observations, as evidenced in application materials.
Good communication skills, as evidenced in application materials.
Position Overview:
The Department of Physics and Astronomy at the University of Kansas (KU) seeks to fill a postdoctoral researcher position in observational or theoretical exoplanetary atmospheres, working in Professor Ian Crossfield’s KU ExoLab group.
Initial appointment is for two years with the possibility of renewal annually for subsequent years subject to review and continued grant funding.
Research in exoplanetary atmospheres. The successful candidate will contribute in several aspects of Prof. Crossfield’s ExoLab research program: in particular, in the detailed characterization (via observations and/or modeling) of exoplanetary atmospheres. Of particular interest are those candidates motivated to work on new JWST, HST, and ground-based exoplanet observations; and/or to confront observations with models using self-consistent forward models and/or inverse (retrieval) methods. The ideal candidate will also be a community member in good standing with a dedication to service.
Reg/Temp:
Regular
Application Review Begins:
16-Apr-2025
Anticipated Start Date:
01-Sep-2025
Additional Candidate Instruction:
A complete online application will include:
Cover Letter
Curriculum Vitae (including publications list)
Statement of Research Interests and Skills
At least three letters of recommendation
Application review begins Wednesday, April 16, 2025, and will continue until a qualified pool of applicants are identified.
Job Family:
Research-KUL
Work Location Assignment:
On-Site
Position Requirements:
This position is fully on-site, at 1082 Malott Hall, Lawrence KS