Applicants with observational experience, pipeline development for NASA imaging, and/or other reduction and analysis techniques are encouraged to apply.  Fong and Eftekhari are members of the F4, CRAFT and CHIME/FRB collaborations. Kilpatrick is a member of the Young Supernova Experiment (YSE) and the La Silla Southern Schmidt Survey (LS4). Successful candidates will have the opportunity to become part of these efforts.

As members of CIERA, successful applicants will benefit from interaction with a broad interdisciplinary group of researchers and will be immersed in a diverse and dynamic intellectual environment (https://ciera.northwestern.edu/programs/). Northwestern has institutional access to several mid- and large-scale optical/IR ground-based telescope facilities, including Keck, MMT, and Magellan. Postdoctoral researchers can apply for nights through CIERA’s internal time allocation process.

Please submit applications electronically (AJO Job ID 32643). Applications should include a cover letter (stating your interest in and relevant experience/skills for the position(s)), CV, statement of research accomplishments and plans (up to 5 pp), and arrange for at least three letters of recommendation to be uploaded to AJO. In your cover letter, please state that you are applying for a Time-Domain Astronomy Postdoctoral Associate position, and which of the positions (Kilpatrick, Fong/Eftekhari) you are interested in. All questions should be sent by email to CIERA-Jobs@northwestern.edu. Applications received by December 18, 2026, will receive full consideration. If you wish to apply for other CIERA positions, submit a separate application per position applied. Applicants must complete their Ph.D. requirements prior to appointment.

Benefits: At Northwestern, we are proud to provide meaningful and competitive benefits. The available benefits package for this position will include health, dental, vision, disability, and life insurance; paid vacation and holidays; paid medical/sick and parental leave; tuition benefits for the employee and dependents; pre-tax and flex spending accounts for commuting and dependent care; generous retirement savings options; and wellness programs. For a comprehensive overview of available benefits, including eligibility details, visit us at Benefits: Human Resources - Northwestern University to learn more. 

Work-Life and Wellness: Northwestern offers comprehensive programs and services to help you and your family navigate life’s challenges and opportunities and adopt and maintain healthy lifestyles. We support flexible work arrangements where possible and programs to help you locate and pay for quality, affordable childcare and senior/adult care. Visit us at Caregiving Resources: Human Resources - Northwestern University to learn more. 

Professional Growth & Development: Northwestern supports employee career development in all circumstances whether your workspace is on campus or at home. If you’re interested in developing your professional potential or continuing your formal education, we offer a variety of tools and resources. Visit us at Talent Development: Human Resources - Northwestern University to learn more. 

Northwestern University is an Equal Opportunity Employer and does not discriminate on the basis of protected characteristics, including disability and veteran status. View Northwestern’s non-discrimination statement. Job applicants who wish to request an accommodation in the application or hiring process should contact the Office of Civil Rights and Title IX Compliance. View additional information on the accommodations process.