Space Telescope Science Institute
Post Doctoral Researcher in Transient Astrophysics
Space Telescope Science Institute, Baltimore, Maryland, United States, 21276
Post Doctoral Researcher in Transient Astrophysics
The Space Telescope Science Institute invites applications for a postdoctoral position in transient astrophysics, focusing on supernovae and dust formation.
Project Description Under the mentorship of Dr. Melissa Shahbandeh and Dr. Armin Rest, the successful candidate will design, curate, and analyze a large‑scale, JWST‑based database on transient phenomena. The role also entails developing data‑processing pipelines, quality‑assurance procedures, and community‑ready tools.
Qualifications
Strong background in software engineering and modern database management (SQL, cloud computing, efficient data retrieval).
Experience creating user‑friendly interfaces and visualization tools for scientific data.
Proficiency in scientific programming with Python, including version control, testing, and documentation best practices.
Experience with large astronomical datasets, preferably from space‑based missions.
Prior work with spectroscopy, ideally in the infrared.
Expertise or interest in dust analysis.
Familiarity with JWST data formats and reduction pipelines.
Knowledge of radiative transfer modeling.
Background in transients is welcome; priority to those with strong software/database skill.
Applicants must hold a Ph.D. in Astronomy, Astrophysics, Physics, or a related field before the appointment begins. Independent research is permissible pending progress. The position is for two years, with a possible third‑year extension based on performance and funding.
Benefits include comprehensive healthcare coverage, paid parental leave, relocation assistance, and a competitive salary commensurate with Ph.D. year.
Application Process Submit a single PDF containing a cover letter, curriculum vitae, publication list, and a 3‑page research summary. Applications and reference letters are accepted through the internal system: https://stsci.slideroom.com/#/permalink/program/87224. Complete applications and reference letters must be received by
January 4, 2026 . For questions regarding the scientific scope, contact mshahbandeh@stsci.edu. For general application questions, contact careers@stsci.edu.
#J-18808-Ljbffr
Project Description Under the mentorship of Dr. Melissa Shahbandeh and Dr. Armin Rest, the successful candidate will design, curate, and analyze a large‑scale, JWST‑based database on transient phenomena. The role also entails developing data‑processing pipelines, quality‑assurance procedures, and community‑ready tools.
Qualifications
Strong background in software engineering and modern database management (SQL, cloud computing, efficient data retrieval).
Experience creating user‑friendly interfaces and visualization tools for scientific data.
Proficiency in scientific programming with Python, including version control, testing, and documentation best practices.
Experience with large astronomical datasets, preferably from space‑based missions.
Prior work with spectroscopy, ideally in the infrared.
Expertise or interest in dust analysis.
Familiarity with JWST data formats and reduction pipelines.
Knowledge of radiative transfer modeling.
Background in transients is welcome; priority to those with strong software/database skill.
Applicants must hold a Ph.D. in Astronomy, Astrophysics, Physics, or a related field before the appointment begins. Independent research is permissible pending progress. The position is for two years, with a possible third‑year extension based on performance and funding.
Benefits include comprehensive healthcare coverage, paid parental leave, relocation assistance, and a competitive salary commensurate with Ph.D. year.
Application Process Submit a single PDF containing a cover letter, curriculum vitae, publication list, and a 3‑page research summary. Applications and reference letters are accepted through the internal system: https://stsci.slideroom.com/#/permalink/program/87224. Complete applications and reference letters must be received by
January 4, 2026 . For questions regarding the scientific scope, contact mshahbandeh@stsci.edu. For general application questions, contact careers@stsci.edu.
#J-18808-Ljbffr