Archived Job Ad

Post Doctoral Research Associate - Space Telescope Science Institute

No. 26487
Position/Title: Post Doctoral Research Associate
Institution: Space Telescope Science Institute

Submit Resumes To:
Attention: Human Resources #10-0038

URL1: www.stsci.edu/jobs
URL2:
URL3:

Email Inquiries: careers@stsci.edu

The closing date for receipt of applications: 08/20/2010 (Application date has passed)

Job Description:

The Space Telescope Science Institute (STScI) invites applications for a postdoctoral research associate to work with Dr. Marc Postman on the analysis of data from an approved HST Multi Cycle Treasury program that will address timely and substantive questions about dark matter, dark energy, and galaxy evolution beyond z = 7. The program received 524 orbits to observe 25 carefully chosen clusters of galaxies.

Our MCT program will take full advantage of the refurbished ACS and WFC3 cameras to deliver deep 16-filter images of the clusters. The 25 X-ray clusters were chosen to be free of lensing bias and to span a wide range of redshift (0.15 < z < 0.9) and mass. By combining strong and weak lensing, we will obtain the definitive mass profile of relaxed clusters to confront the distinctive prediction of the standard Lambda-CDM model. Detailed maps of internal structure will be enabled by ~1,000 new multiply-imaged lensed sources to AB = 26, all with precise (2% • (1+z)) photometric redshift measurements, thanks to WFC3's UV and IR coverage. A supernovae search in parallel (with low magnification uncertainties) will extend the Hubble diagram of SN1a to z > 1.5, testing the constancy of dark energy with time and probing progenitor evolution.

We are seeking researchers to work on one or more topics from the cosmological constraints derived from strong and weak lensing and supernovae, to the characterization of the strongly lensed high redshift (z > 7) galaxies, to the study of the evolution of the cluster galaxy population with this unique multi-color survey. The MCT team members in Baltimore are Marc Postman (P.I.) and Larry Bradley at the STScI, and Holland Ford, Adam Reiss, and Wei Zheng at JHU. The successful applicants will work as part of the Baltimore team and with the entire international team as well. Postdoctoral researchers will be given the opportunity to lead papers.

The Space Telescope Science Institute, located on Johns Hopkins University Campus in Baltimore, Maryland, manages the Hubble Space Telescope and the James Webb Space Telescope and hosts the Kepler Mission Data Center. The institute provides a uniquely dynamic and diverse environment for professional development, and also offers an excellent benefit package, competitive salaries, and a stimulating work environment.

The successful applicant will have a Ph.D. in astronomy or physics and have substantial knowledge of observational extragalactic astrophysics. Experience with data from space-based and large ground-based telescopes is highly desirable. The appointments will initially be for two years and may be renewed for up to one additional year subject to funding and performance. It is anticipated that the work starts no later than November 2010.


Applicants are requested to complete an online application at ww.stsci.edu/institute/employment

Find the position using the requisition number #10-0038, click "apply online" at the bottom of the job details page, create an account, and upload the following items as PDF files into the "Resume Upload" section: 1) curriculum vitae, 2) list of publications, 3) brief statement of research interests, accomplishments, relevant scientific expertise and 4) contact information of four individuals familiar with your research directly that will be submitting reference letters. Please include requisition number 10-0038 in the file name for each uploaded attachment.

Completed applications received by August 20, 2010 are assured full consideration. Committed to the benefits of diversity, we strongly encourage qualified women and minority candidates to apply. STScI is an affirmative action/equal opportunity employer. EOE/AA/M/F/D/V.

Included Benefits:

O Comprehensive Benefits: Medical, Dental, Prescription, and Vision
O Vacation: Up to 5 weeks of paid vacation a year
O Sick Leave: Up to 12 sick days a year
O Paid Holidays: 7 regular holidays and 3 personal holidays
O Employee Voluntary Retirement Savings Plan
O Casual Work Environment O Flexible Work Schedules
O Tuition Reimbursement and Prepayment Program
O Telecommuting Options Available O Free Parking
O Flexible Spending Accounts O Employee Assistance Program
O Company-paid Life, Short-term Disability, and Long-term Disability O Employer-sponsored Retirement Plan: Company contribution equal to 10% of base salary annually O Discounted Access to the JHU Fitess Center
O Access to the Milton S. Eisenhower Library O Part-time employees are offered benefits on a pro-rated basis.
Join our stellar team!

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