Postdoctoral Research Associate I - Space Instrumentation (Multiple Positions) (updated)

Position Overview The University of Arizona Department of Astronomy and Steward Observatory invite applications for three Postdoctoral Research Associates focused on instrumentation and techniques for ground and space-based wavefront control and high-contrast imaging. Candidates with experience outside of astronomy are encouraged to apply. Start dates range from August 2025 to August 2026. Research Focus Postdoctoral Research Associates will work closely with faculty members Jared Males, Ewan Douglas, Patrick Ingraham, and others within the Center for Astronomical Adaptive Optics. Projects will involve controls, machine learning, image reconstruction, wavefront sensing, and instrument development and testing. Researchers will be encouraged to conduct independent research, apply for time on Steward facilities as a principal investigator, and collaborate broadly with department faculty. Duties & Responsibilities Develop and lead an independent research agenda in adaptive optics, wavefront control, space instrumentation, and exoplanet direct imaging; disseminate work through publications and presentations. Develop and implement research initiatives, collaborations, publications, or events (talks, workshops, visitor programs) as needed. Collaborate with faculty and scholars to support an inclusive academic environment, including organizing meetings, supervising or mentoring graduate and undergraduate students. Additional duties as assigned. Minimum Qualifications Completed all requirements for a PhD in physical science, mathematics/data science, or engineering at time of hire. Preferred Qualifications Experience in space mission and hardware, systems engineering, testing, and operations. Experience developing CubeSats, SmallSats, sub-orbital missions, or payloads. Experience building, operating, or testing astronomical instruments or telescopes on the ground or in space. Experience contributing to open-source software or hardware projects. Experience with technical communication. Benefits Health, dental, vision, and life insurance. Paid vacation, sick leave, and holidays. Tuition reduction for the employee and qualified family members at UA, ASU, and NAU. Access to UA recreation and cultural activities. #J-18808-Ljbffr University of Arizona