Postdoctoral Researcher

The Carnegie Observatories, a department of the Carnegie Institution for Science and a non-profit, world-class astronomical institution with offices located in Pasadena, California, is seeking candidates for a postdoctoral researcher position.

The successful applicant will work with Dr. Andrew Benson to develop the next generation of semi-analytic galaxy formation model – a primary input to pipelines for synthetic skies - focused on providing physical models of galaxies and key observables needed to produce realistic synthetic skies for the coming generation of surveys.

Specific areas of focus will include building models of emission lines, and their radiative transfer through dust, and incorporation of these models into detailed calculations of galaxy spectra.

Desired qualifications

• Prior expertise in semi-analytic models, emission line modeling, radiative transfer, and Bayesian statistics are desirable.
• Completed doctoral degree in astrophysics or a related field at the time of appointment.
• Excellent mathematical and computer programming skills;
• Excellent written and oral communication skills;
• Evidence of ability to work independently and in teams;
• Commitment to a collegial and inclusive workplace.

Salary: $66,560 annualized, plus benefits and supporting funds for research and equipment.

The appointment will be for one year, with potential extension to three years pending review at the end of the first year.

The application must include a cover letter, a CV (including a list of publications), and a list of three references with contact information.

Please contact Dr. Andrew Benson at abenson@carnegiescience.edu with any questions about the position.