Job Description

Applications are invited for a post-doctoral researcher to work with Dr. Claudia Scarlata and collaborators at the Minnesota Institute for Astrophysics. The postdoc will work with NIRSpec spectroscopic data from the James Webb Space Telescope (JWST). The data were acquired with an innovative strategy that allows the use of NIRSpec as a slitless spectrograph. More details can be found here. The postdoc will be responsible for the development of the data-reduction pipeline for this new observing method. 

70%: development of the data-reduction pipeline for this new observing method..
5% Supervision of graduate students, and undergraduates participating in this research
10% Maintain familiarity with the latest results and methods in the field, reading relevant papers, organizing and participating in seminars and conferences.
15%: Communicating research to the collaboration and the broader community by giving presentations to the collaboration, writing technical documents, and submitting papers for publication in peer-reviewed journals. Giving presentations at universities and laboratories, and presenting results at domestic and international conferences. 
Other duties of a similar scope as assigned.

Required: 
PhD in Physics or Astrophysics by beginning date of appointment.

Preferred:
Previous experience with slitless spectroscopy and JWST spectroscopic data is highly desirable.

See more information about the School of Physics and Astronomy at https://cse.umn.edu/physics

Working at the University

At the University of Minnesota, you’ll find a flexible work environment and supportive colleagues who are interested in lifelong learning.  We prioritize work-life balance, allowing you to invest in the future of your career and in your life outside of work.

The University also offers a comprehensive benefits package that includes:

• Competitive wages, paid holidays, and generous time off
• Continuous learning opportunities through professional training and degree-seeking programs supported by the Regents Scholarship
• Low-cost medical, dental, and pharmacy plans
• Healthcare and dependent care flexible spending accounts
• University HSA contributions
• Disability and employer-paid life insurance
• Employee wellbeing program
• Excellent retirement plans with employer contribution
• Public Service Loan Forgiveness (PSLF) opportunity
• Financial counseling services 
• Employee Assistance Program with eight sessions of counseling at no cost
• Employee Transit Pass with free or reduced rates in the Twin Cities metro area

Please visit the Office of Human Resources website for more information regarding benefits.

The position is open effective immediately. Applications will be accepted until the position is filled. 

Please provide in a single pdf:

Applications should include the following documents:

-- cover letter, 
-- curriculum vitae, 
-- publication list, 
-- statement of research experience and interests,
-- reference list with contact information.

Applications should be completed online by Jan 1st 2024.

In addition, applicants should have three letters of recommendation sent via email to Benji Koshy (bkoshy@umn.edu)

Applications must be submitted online.  To be considered for this position, please click the Apply button and follow the instructions.  You will be given the opportunity to complete an online application for the position and attach a cover letter and resume.

Additional documents may be attached after application by accessing your "My Job Applications" page and uploading documents in the "My Cover Letters and Attachments" section.

To request an accommodation during the application process, please e-mail employ@umn.edu or call (612) 624-UOHR (8647).

The University recognizes and values the importance of diversity and inclusion in enriching the employment experience of its employees and in supporting the academic mission.  The University is committed to attracting and retaining employees with varying identities and backgrounds.

The University of Minnesota provides equal access to and opportunity in its programs, facilities, and employment without regard to race, color, creed, religion, national origin, gender, age, marital status, disability, public assistance status, veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity, or gender expression.  To learn more about diversity at the U:  http://diversity.umn.edu

Any offer of employment is contingent upon the successful completion of a background check. Our presumption is that prospective employees are eligible to work here. Criminal convictions do not automatically disqualify finalists from employment.

The University of Minnesota, Twin Cities (UMTC)

The University of Minnesota, Twin Cities (UMTC), is among the largest public research universities in the country, offering undergraduate, graduate, and professional students a multitude of opportunities for study and research. Located at the heart of one of the nation's most vibrant, diverse metropolitan communities, students on the campuses in Minneapolis and St. Paul benefit from extensive partnerships with world-renowned health centers, international corporations, government agencies, and arts, nonprofit, and public service organizations.

At the University of Minnesota, we are proud to be recognized by the Star Tribune as a Top Workplace for 2021, as well as by Forbes as Best Employers for Women and one of America’s Best Employers (2015, 2018, 2019, 2023), Best Employer for Diversity (2019, 2020), Best Employer for New Grads (2018, 2019), and Best Employer by State (2019, 2022).