The University of Arizona (UArizona) Department of Astronomy and Steward Observatory (SO) invites applications for Postdoctoral Research Associates interested in research related to direct imaging of exoplanets and debris disk. Successful applicants would have the opportunity to work with faculty including Ewan Douglas and the UArizona Space Astrophysics Lab (UASAL), the Center for Astronomical Adaptive Optics, and others within Steward Observatory on high-contrast imaging, debris disk science. The successful applicant would have the opportunity to join ongoing efforts in laboratory work demonstrating high-contrast technologies on the vacuum Space Coronagraph Optical Bench (SCoOB), in JWST and HST coronagraph image post-processing efforts, in precursor debris disk and exoplanet science and physical optics simulation of coronagraphs for future missions including the Roman Coronagraph and future 6+ m “UV/O/IR” missions to image habitable worlds.

UA/SO offers a world-class research environment in ground and space-based astrophysics with strong interdisciplinary programs across the Departments of Astronomy, Physics, Planetary Sciences, and the UA Data Science Institute. Recently selected to build the Aspera CubeSat and home to the JWST NIRCam team, Steward Observatory provides direct access to various world-class facilities for ground-based radio and optical observing. Among these are the Large Binocular Telescope and 6.5m aperture telescopes located in both the northern and southern hemispheres and applicants would be eligible to submit their own science proposals.

The position will provide opportunities for outreach and student engagement, and applicants with interest in outreach are encouraged to apply.

Multiple positions are expected to be available with start dates ranging from April 2023 to Sept 2023.