Job Details

Postdoctoral Associate in Observational Extragalactic Astrophysics with JWST

Position Number: 6904426
Location: Boulder, CO
Position Type: Science - Astronomy and Astrophysics

Postdoctoral Associate in Observational Extragalactic Astrophysics with JWST

Requisition Number: 69895
Location: Boulder Colorado
Employment Type: Research Faculty
Schedule: Full Time
Posting Close Date:
Date Posted:

Job Summary

Applications are invited for a Postdoctoral Associate research position to work at the University of Colorado with Professor Wren Suess in the Center for Astrophysics and Space Astronomy (CASA). The candidate will conduct research related to galaxy formation and evolution at cosmic noon and beyond using data from the JWST MINERVA survey, which targets four extragalactic deep fields with NIRCam medium-band and MIRI imaging (minerva.colorado.edu). While a broad range of scientific projects are possible, applicants with expertise or interest in the following science topics are particularly welcomed:

Multi-band galaxy morphologies
Spatially-resolved spectral energy distribution modeling
Quenching and the evolution of massive galaxies
Dust, dust attenuation laws, and effective use of multi-band MIR data
Building accurate/flexible models for SED fitting

Depending on interest, the successful applicant could also contribute to NIRSpec/MIRI IFU observations of z~0.5 quiescent galaxies, or the SQuIGGLE survey of z~0.7 post-starburst galaxies.

The expected start date is Fall 2026, but can be flexible upon request. The appointment will be for an initial period of two years, with renewal for a third year contingent on progress and funding.
CU is an Equal Opportunity Employer and complies with all applicable federal, state, and local laws governing nondiscrimination in employment. We are committed to creating a workplace where all individuals are treated with respect and dignity, and we encourage individuals from all backgrounds to apply, including protected veterans and individuals with disabilities.

Who We Are

The Center for Astrophysics and Space Astronomy (CASA) is dedicated to advancing our understanding of the Universe in which we live through observations and theory. Founded in 1985, CASA is an affiliated unit within the structure of the Astrophysical and Planetary Sciences (APS) Department at the University of Colorado, Boulder.

What Your Key Responsibilities Will Be

Work collaboratively with Professor Wren Suess to advance our knowledge of galaxy formation and evolution. Our research group at CU currently consists of ~a dozen scientists across undergraduate, graduate, and postdoctoral levels.
Attend regular research group meetings and highly encouraged to collaborate both within the CU group and with the broader MINERVA team.

What You Should Know

The successful candidate will join a highly collaborative research group where respect and kindness are prioritized.

What We Can Offer

The annual starting salary range for this full-time position is $65,000 - $70,000.
The position also offers research/travel funds, and access to CU's telescope and supercomputing facilities.
Relocation funds may be available per department guidelines.

Benefits

At the University of Colorado Boulder, we are committed to supporting the holistic health and well-being of our employees. Our comprehensive benefits package includes medical, dental, and retirement plans; generous paid time off; tuition assistance for you and your dependents; and an ECO Pass for local transit. As one of Boulder County's largest employers, CU Boulder offers an inspiring academic community and access to world-class outdoor recreation. Explore additional perks and programs through the CU Advantage program.

Be Statements

Be ambitious. Be inspired. Be Boulder.

What We Require

Applicants must have a PhD in astronomy or a closely related field at the start of this position.

What You Will Need

Preferred qualifications include experience with JWST imaging, stellar population synthesis modeling, and galaxy physics at z>~2.

Special Instructions

To apply, please submit the following materials:

Resume/CV
Cover Letter
Essay: A brief statement of your scholarly interests, past work, and how you would contribute to a research program on galaxy evolution with JWST. Candidates are encouraged to discuss their overall career goals, experience working with junior scientists or in collaborations, and/or any previous/planned work to make academia more inclusive. (up to 3 pages)

(Optional) Transcript/Proof of Degree: If you are selected as the finalist, your degree will be verified by the CU Boulder Campus Human Resources department using an approved online vendor. If your degree was obtained outside of the United States, please submit a translated version (if applicable) as an optional attachment.

During the application process, you will be asked to enter the contact information for three references. We will request letters of recommendation immediately upon receipt of your application.

Please apply by March 1st, 2026 for full consideration. The position will remain open until filled.

Note: Application materials will not be accepted via email. For consideration, applications must be submitted through CU Boulder Jobs.

In compliance with the Colorado Job Application Fairness Act, in any materials you submit, you may redact or remove age-identifying information such as age, date of birth, or dates of school attendance or graduation. You will not be penalized for redacting or removing this information.

To apply, visit https://jobs.colorado.edu/jobs/JobDetail/Postdoctoral-Associate-in-Observational-Extragalactic-Astrophysics-with-JWST/69895