Postdoctoral Researcher (Physics and Astronomy: High Resolution Imaging of Brown Dwarfs)

Job no: 496220
Position type: full-time
Location: Lewisburg, PA
Categories: Physics & Astronomy

A postdoctoral position is available to work with Dr. Katelyn Allers in the Department of Physics and Astronomy at Bucknell University. The position is a yearly appointment, renewable for up to three years, and has a preferred start date of between June and September 2019.

The successful applicant will join a research program focused on using high resolution (HST) imaging to study the multiplicity properties of low mass stars and brown dwarfs and search for planetary-mass companions. The position will involve active participation in all phases of the project: data reduction, analysis, statistical modeling, and publication of results in collaboration with an international team. Efforts will also be made to sustain projects the successful candidate has previously established. The position includes the option to participate in the liberal arts educational mission of Bucknell, including mentoring of undergraduate research.

Job Duties:
In collaboration with Dr. Katelyn Allers, the Postdoctoral Researcher will:
- Reduce and analyze data from multiple HST programs related to brown dwarf multiplicity.
- Develop and/or modify statistical tools for analysis of multiplicity properties.
- Plan and conduct follow-up observations of candidate planetary-mass companions.
- Prepare manuscripts for publication in peer-reviewed journals, write grant proposals, and present results at national/international conferences.
- Explore novel approaches to dissemination and outreach.
- Have the opportunity to mentor and instruct students as part of Bucknell's mission to provide a superior undergraduate experience.

Minimum Qualifications:
Applicants are required to have a Ph.D. or the equivalent (in astronomy, physics or a related field), or be ABD with the understanding that the Ph.D. must be completed prior to their second year. The position requires proficiency in oral and written English language skills as well as demonstrated experience in preparing publications. The successful candidate must demonstrate a commitment to diversity and inclusiveness.

Preferred Qualifications:
An interest in low-mass stars, brown dwarfs or directly-imaged exoplanets. Experience with high resolution imaging observations. Background in astrometric, photometric, and/or spectroscopic observations in the near-infrared.

Applications will only be accepted through Bucknell’s online career site (careers.bucknell.edu) and must include a CV and a brief (2-3) statement explaining the applicant’s interest and qualifications for the position. Applicants should also arrange for two letters of recommendation to be submitted. Review of applications will begin on March 6, 2019.

Bucknell’s Department of Physics and Astronomy has 14 faculty, with support provided by two technical staff, one introductory lab coordinator, and one administrative assistant. Faculty and staff have access to a linux computing cluster as well as a high performance science computing network. The department is a leasing partner on the ARC 3.5 m telescope at Apache Point Observatory. The department also maintains an on-campus observatory, including the 131-year old Clark refractor, the Tressler Observing Lab with six small optical telescopes, and a radio telescope.

About Bucknell

Founded in 1846 and located along the banks of the Susquehanna River in historic Lewisburg, Pa., Bucknell University is an undergraduate-focused institution that stands uniquely at the intersection of top-ranked liberal arts, engineering and management programs. Our students choose from more than 50 majors and 60 minors in the arts, engineering, humanities, management, and natural and social sciences, as well as extensive global study, service-learning and research opportunities. Bucknell’s 3,600 undergraduate and 100 graduate students enjoy a low 9:1 student-faculty ratio and exceptional opportunities to collaborate with faculty mentors.

Bucknell’s beautiful 450-acre campus includes first-rate facilities and is home to more than 90 percent of its students. Residential life is vibrant with about 150 student-run organizations, 27 NCAA Division I athletic teams, a robust arts culture, and a strong student commitment to community and global service work.

Bucknell is committed to fostering an environment that embraces diversity, equity and inclusion, and we seek candidates who will contribute to a climate that supports the growth and development of a diverse campus community. The University provides equal opportunity without regard to race, color, gender, gender identity, gender expression, sexual orientation, age, religion, national or ethnic origin, marital status, veteran status or disability in admissions, employment and in all of its educational programs and activities. We encourage individuals from historically underrepresented groups to apply.

The Community

Located in central Pennsylvania, Lewisburg features a variety of restaurants, beautiful Victorian homes, the restored art deco Campus Theatre (owned by the University), charming shops and boutiques, and the Barnes and Noble at Bucknell University Bookstore. About 33,000 residents live in the region.

The city of Williamsport is about a 30-minute drive from campus, and Penn State University’s main campus is about an hour away, as is Harrisburg, Pennsylvania’s state capital. Bucknell is about three hours from New York City, Philadelphia, Baltimore and Washington, D.C.

The cost of living here is low compared to that of major U.S. cities and suburbs. Bucknell’s surroundings yield fresh produce, cultural activities and events, and many opportunities for outdoor activity on the Susquehanna River and in the nearby state parks and forests. The Lewisburg Area School District receives excellent reviews for its schools at all grade levels. Lewisburg Area High School is consistently ranked among the top 50 high schools in Pennsylvania for SAT scores and statewide exams.

Advertised: 28 Jan 2019 Eastern Standard Time
Applications close:

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