Postdoctoral Scholar in Physics and Astronomy

Haverford College invites applications to our full-time, fixed-term, benefits-eligible Postdoctoral Scholar in Physics and Astronomy position. The initial appointment is for one year and continued funding is available for an additional year contingent upon satisfactory research progress. A third year is possible, pending funding. We enthusiastically encourage individuals from backgrounds that are underrepresented in STEM fields to apply for this opportunity.

Mentored by Professor Daniel Grin and Adam Lidz (University of Pennsylvania/Penn), the Postdoctoral Scholar will build computational/theoretical models of high-redshift galaxy formation and clustering in novel (for example, ultra-light axions, self-interacting dark matter) dark matter models, using a combination of semi-analytic and simulation-based approaches. Work will include exploring the implications of JWST, and analysis/forecasting for ongoing/upcoming neutral-hydrogen surveys (Lyman- ? forest measurements and 21-cm observations). The work may include both theoretical components and the analysis of existing data.

Prior experience in hydrodynamical astrophysical simulations, dark matter particle physics, or Monte Carlo Markov Chain analysis is helpful, but not required. Training in these areas will be provided as necessary.

Work may include mentorship of undergraduate research students and collaboration with graduate students (at Penn). The position will be at Haverford College, but the postdoctoral scholar also will have a Visiting Scholar Appointment at Penn. The fellow will be encouraged to interact with faculty, postdocs, and students at Penn and participate in journal clubs/seminars there. The Scholar may have an opportunity to teach an undergraduate course at Haverford in the second or third year, pending staffing needs and candidate interest and experience. Haverford is a primarily undergraduate institution (PUI) where faculty maintain visible and productive research careers – the successful candidate will have a unique opportunity to experience productive scholarship and student engagement at a PUI.

Financial support will be provided for conference/workshop travel and career development.

Haverford College is an Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action employer committed to diversity, equity, inclusion, social justice, and providing equal opportunities and access to all individuals regardless of race, ethnicity, religion, gender identity, sexual orientation, national origin or ancestry, age, marital status, disability, or veteran status. Women, non-binary and transgender individuals, people of color, Indigenous people, and those with other or multiple historically marginalized and/or underrepresented identities are especially encouraged to apply. Haverford College and our consortia partners are located on Lenape lands.

Primary Responsibilities

• Computational modeling of galaxy properties at high-redshifts and analysis of data
• Co-writing of publications
• Possible mentorship of students in independent related research

Line of Report: The Postdoctoral Scholar reports to Daniel Grin (Assistant Professor of Physics). It is not expected that any other positions will report to this person.

Minimum Qualifications

• Doctoral degree in physics, astronomy, astrophysics, or a closely related field (e.g., including but not limited to applied mathematics, computer science, geophysics, planetary science) by August 2023 – successful defense of Ph.D. is required to commence position.
• Two years of post-bachelor-degree research experience (e.g., master’s degree or equivalent).

Helpful Professional Competencies

• Strong computational skills
• Highly motivated
• Interest in mentoring undergraduate research students in a liberal arts setting

Special Requirements:

All faculty and staff (including contract workers) who are employed or engaged by Haverford College, must be fully vaccinated against COVID-19, and provide proof of vaccination (to include a booster dose when eligible) unless an exemption from this policy has been granted as an accommodation or otherwise.

To Apply: Interested applicants are invited to submit an application, to include a cover letter, curriculum vitae (CV, including publication list), description of past/ongoing research interests, and 2-3 recommendation letters by visiting https://haverford.wd1.myworkdayjobs.com/External/job/Haverford-Campus/Postdoctoral-Scholar-in-Physics-and-Astronomy_R462 . The application deadline is February 28, 2023. Application review will begin after the deadline has passed.