Working at MIT offers opportunities, an environment, a culture – and benefits – that just aren’t found together anywhere else. If you’re curious, motivated, want to be part of a unique community, and help shape the future – then take a look at this opportunity.

POSTDOCTORAL ASSOCIATE, Kavli Institute for Astrophysics and Space Research (MKI), to carry out independent and collaborative research programs in stellar astrophysics--with broad emphasis on star formation--such as the evolution of accreting low-mass stars with circumstellar disks, accretion, jets, and gas and dust clouds. In addition to persuing own independent research, will lead the analysis of an 100 orbit HST program. This program serendipitously observes parts of star forming regions to identify cluster members, look for disks, and discover new jets and outflows. Other projects may include multi-wavelength spectroscopy (IR to X-rays) of young stars, observations of stellar jets, or stellar X-ray activity to name just a few examples.  Members of the group use a variety of X-ray, UV, optical, and infrared spectra from ground and space-based observatories with much emphasis on Chandra X-ray imaging and spectroscopic instruments (high and low resolution). The high energy astrophysics group also participates in definition of the Chandra Guaranteed Time Observation Program for the HETG. Additionally, MIT is a member of the Magellan Telescope Consortium, which includes a budget of observing time.  While not a necessity for this position, the successful applicant will be encouraged to pursue their research interests by utilizing these resources. 

Job Requirements

REQUIRED: a Ph.D. in astronomy or physics; familiarity with either imaging or high-resolution spectroscopy in the optical, UV, or X-ray range; demonstrated initiative; and experience working in modern stellar astrophysics research, particularly star formation.  Job #19193 

Review of the applications will begin on January 31, 2021, and continue until the position is filled. The start date is nominally spring of 2021, but can be negotiated.

The appointment will be for two years, renewable for a third depending on performance and availability of funding.

In addition to applying online via the MIT website with a single PDF containing a CV and statement of research interests (3-4 page summary of recent work including ongoing projects), applicants are asked to submit their CV, publications list, statement of research interests, and arrange for three letters of reference to be sent to Dr. Moritz Guenther by email at hgunther@mit.edu.

Due to the COVID-19 pandemic, MIT staff are currently encouraged to work remotely whenever possible. Until it is safe for MIT to fully reopen the campus, this position will work remotely and immediate relocation is not necessary, provided that the work is conducted within the U.S.