Postdoctoral Associate - Researcher in Exoplanet Sciences

Postdoctoral Associate - Researcher in Exoplanet Sciences Below you will find the details for the position including any supplementary documentation and questions you should review before applying for the opening. Applicants should submit: Curriculum vitae, including a publication list; A statement describing research accomplishments, future research interests, and professional development goals; Contact information for three professional references. Applications received by December 15, 2026 will receive full consideration. Position Information Recruitment/Posting Title : Postdoctoral Associate - Researcher in Exoplanet Sciences Department : Physics & Astronomy Salary Details : minimum salary per Postdoc Union Contract - $63,968 Benefits : Medical, prescription drug, and dental coverage Paid vacation, holidays, and various leave programs Competitive retirement benefits, including defined contribution plans and voluntary tax-deferred savings options Employee and dependent educational benefits Life insurance coverage Employee discounts programs Rutgers offers a comprehensive benefits package to eligible employees, based on position, which includes: Salary will be competitive and commensurate with qualifications and experience. Located in New Jersey, Rutgers University is a premiere, Research 1, public land grant institution that reflects the broad spectrum of backgrounds in the state. The School of Arts and Sciences, the largest and most comprehensive school at Rutgers University, is especially interested in candidates who can advance our mission of excellence. Research Activities Research activities may include: Leading and participating in observations with the James Webb Space Telescope (JWST) and major ground-based observatories, including the development of novel data analysis techniques Developing and applying innovative atmospheric and surface models, including climate and photochemical processes Integrating observational and theoretical approaches to investigate the formation, evolution, and environments of small exoplanets Developing and applying artificial intelligence and machine learning methods to accelerate exoplanet discovery and characterization Performing science analyses that inform future flagship observatories, including the Habitable Worlds Observatory (HWO) The successful candidate will have access to a broad suite of modeling tools and observing resources. Through the Rutgers astrophysics program, opportunities are available to pursue observations with the Southern African Large Telescope (SALT), one of the largest optical telescopes in the Southern Hemisphere. The combination of premier observational facilities and advanced theoretical frameworks provides an exceptional environment for impactful and transformative research. Job Responsibilities & Development The postdoctoral researcher will be encouraged and supported in developing scientific independence, pursuing professional development opportunities, and taking leadership roles in proposal development, scientific collaborations, and observational and theoretical research projects. Terms of Appointment The position is supported through a combination of the Downsbrough Endowment and externally funded research grants. The initial appointment is for two years, with the possibility of renewal contingent upon mutual agreement and the availability of funding. Position Status: Full Time Eligibility & Requirements Minimum Education and Experience: Applicants must have a Ph.D. in astronomy or physics by the start date. Required Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities: Excellence in research, with observational and/or theoretical experience relevant to one or more of the areas described above, and a commitment to developing as an independent researcher will be the primary criteria for consideration. Preferred Qualifications: (none specified) Immunization Requirements: Under Policy 100.3.1 Immunization Policy for Covered Individuals , if employment will commence during Flu Season, Rutgers University may require certain prospective employees to provide proof that they are vaccinated against Seasonal Influenza for the current Flu Season, unless the University has granted the individual a medical or religious exemption. Additional infection control and safety policies may apply. Equal Employment Opportunity Statement It is university policy to provide equal employment opportunity to all its employees and applicants for employment regardless of their race, creed, color, national origin, age, ancestry, nationality, marital or domestic partnership or civil union status, sex, pregnancy, gender identity or expression, disability status, liability for military service, protected veteran status, affectional or sexual orientation, atypical cellular or blood trait, genetic information (including the refusal to submit to genetic testing), or any other category protected by law. As an institution, we encourage all qualified applicants to apply. For additional information please see the Non-Discrimination Statement at the following web address: Questions about this position may be directed to Professor Renyu Hu at View email address on click.appcast.io #J-18808-Ljbffr Rutgers