Position Description

The University of Notre Dame, Department of Physics & Astronomy, invites applications for a postdoctoral scholar to work on high contrast direct imaging of extrasolar planets and/or IR instrumentation. The successful applicant will work with Prof. Jeffrey Chilcote’s research group. Prof. Chilcote’s group is involved in both the Gemini Planet Imager upgrade (GPI 2.0) and the CHARIS integral field spectrograph (IFS) located behind SCExAO at Subaru. Depending upon the applicant’s research interests and qualifications, researchers may be involved with the commissioning, testing and early science of GPI 2.0, direct imaging surveys with CHARIS, or instrument development and research projects.

GPI was originally installed on the Gemini South telescope in Chile in 2013 and is currently undergoing a major upgrade at Notre Dame as part of a relocation to Gemini North. The upgrade to GPI 2.0 is currently being completed at Notre Dame and is planned to have first light in 2025 with early science and a larger survey thereafter. GPI is scheduled for final lab testing to occur in 2024. CHARIS is an IFS located behind the SCExAO system which is currently conducting a survey to search for directly observable extrasolar planets. The survey is focused on increasing the number of directly imaged planets using CHARIS.

Qualifications include a PhD in physics, astronomy, or a related field, strong written and oral communication, and leadership qualities. The appointment is for two years, with a third-year contingent on performance and continued funding. Base salary will be commensurate with experience.

The successful applicant will receive health care and benefits. More information about being a postdoctoral scholar at Notre Dame can be found at http://postdocs.nd.edu.

Candidates should provide a cover letter, CV, a 3-page research statement, publication list and arrange to have three letters of recommendation submitted. Please contact Prof. Jeffrey Chilcote with questions about the position. Applications received by January 7, 2024 will receive full consideration. Late applications will be considered at the discretion of the search committee.

The Department is committed to diversifying, and encourages applications from women and members of traditionally underrepresented groups. The University of Notre Dame is located in South Bend, Indiana and provides a family friendly environment and affordable cost of living.