Our department is committed to diversity and making the field more equitable and inclusive (read more here). With this in mind, we will take into consideration personal experiences, as well as efforts in education, outreach or other service activities related to astrophysics or other sciences. Princeton University is an equal opportunity employer and all qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to age, race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, national origin, disability status, protected veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by law.
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The following positions are offered in the Department of Astrophysical Sciences directly and may be applied to with one application:
- Lyman Spitzer, Jr. Fellowship
- Henry Norris Russell Fellowship
- Carnegie-Princeton Fellowship
- Astrophysical Plasma Theory and Simulation
- Cosmic Microwave Background
- Machine Learning and Cosmology
- Multimessenger Plasma Physics Center (MPPC)
- Statistical Astronomy
- Theoretical Astrophysics
The following department positions are applied to individually:
- Future Faculty in the Physical Sciences Fellowship
- Experimental/Observational Space Physics
- Space and Planetary Sciences
- Magnetized Multi-ion Transport in Plasma with Application to Nuclear Fusion
- Visiting Fellows in Space Physics Program
The following positions are also of interest:
- Princeton Gravity Initiative
- 51 Pegasi b Fellowship in Planetary Astronomy
- Brinson Prize Fellowship
Frequently Asked Questions
Lyman Spitzer, Jr. Postdoctoral Fellowship
The Department of Astrophysical Sciences at Princeton University invites applications for the Lyman Spitzer, Jr. Postdoctoral Fellowship in Astrophysics. Spitzer Fellows are expected to carry out original research in astrophysics, independently or in collaboration with Princeton faculty, postdoctoral researchers, and students. The fellowship is intended primarily to support researchers in theoretical astrophysics, but exceptional candidates in all areas of astronomy are encouraged to apply. The fellowship is open to postdoctoral or more senior researchers, and includes a substantial annual research fund. Applications from members of groups historically under-represented in Astrophysics are especially encouraged.
Applicants may work with the department’s distinguished faculty and research staff. For a full list of department members and activities, see https://web.astro.princeton.edu/. There are also strong research groups with interests in astrophysics at the Princeton Plasma Physics Lab and in the Physics, Geosciences, and Mechanical and Aerospace Engineering Departments, and at the nearby Institute for Advanced Study. Spitzer Fellows will have access to the extensive Princeton research computing facilities. These include a variety of high-performance (petaflop) clusters with both CPUs and GPUs, large shared-memory systems for data analysis and visualization, and multiple petabytes of data storage. Spitzer Fellows will also have data rights to the Hyper Suprime-Cam Survey and the Prime Focus Spectrograph Survey on the Subaru 8.2m telescope, and will have the opportunity to join the Atacama Cosmology Telescope and the Simons Observatory collaborations.
Appointments are for one year, renewable annually based on satisfactory performance, for a total of up to three years. The expected starting date is September 1, 2023, although this is flexible. A PhD in Astronomy or a related field is required.
Interested persons should submit a curriculum vitae, a publication list and a research statement, and provide contact information for three references by November 1, 2022 at 11:59pm EST. Our department is committed to diversity and making the field more equitable and inclusive. With this in mind, we will take into consideration personal experiences, as well as efforts in education, outreach or other service activities related to astrophysics or other sciences. Applicants are invited to describe such experiences and their commitment to diversity, equity and inclusion in a separate statement, but this is not required.
Applicants should apply via the web at: https://puwebp.princeton.edu/AcadHire/position/27583. Letters of recommendation will also be handled through this site. All applications received by November 1, 2022 at 11:59pm EST will be fully considered, but applications will continue to be accepted until all available positions are filled. All applications will be considered for all postdoctoral positions available in the department, including department fellowships and grant supported positions, but you will be asked in the application which positions you are interested in. For further inquiries, contact [email protected].
This position is subject to the University’s background check policy. Princeton University is an Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action employer and all qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to age, race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, national origin, disability status, protected veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by law.
Henry Norris Russell Postdoctoral Fellowship
The Department of Astrophysical Sciences, Princeton University, invites applications for the Henry Norris Russell Fellowship in Astrophysics. Russell Fellows are expected to carry out original research in astrophysics, independently or in collaboration with Princeton faculty, postdoctoral researchers and students. The fellowship is intended primarily to support researchers in observational or experimental astrophysics, but exceptional candidates in all areas of astronomy are encouraged to apply. The fellowship is open to postdoctoral or more senior researchers, and includes a substantial annual research fund. Applications from members of groups historically under-represented in Astrophysics are especially encouraged.
Applicants may work with the Department’s distinguished faculty and research staff. For a full list of department members and activities, see https://web.astro.princeton.edu/. There are also strong research groups with interests in astrophysics at the Princeton Plasma Physics Lab and in the Physics, Geosciences, and Mechanical and Aerospace Engineering Departments, and at the nearby Institute for Advanced Study. The Department is playing a major role in the Rubin Observatory Legacy Survey of Space and Time consortium, which is building a dedicated 8.4-meter telescope to carry out a 20,000-square-degree, multi-band, multi-epoch imaging survey. We are also collaborating with the National Astronomical Observatory of Japan to carry out deep, high-resolution, wide-area imaging and spectroscopic surveys to study galaxy evolution, cosmology, Milky Way structure, and planetary systems on the Subaru 8.2 meter telescope on Maunakea, Hawaii as part of the Hyper Suprime-Cam and Prime Focus Spectrograph surveys. We also have major initiatives searching for and characterizing extrasolar planets, including leadership of the HATPi survey and participation in the TESS survey.
We are using the Atacama Cosmology Telescope (ACT) to map the intensity and polarization of the Cosmic Microwave Background at a variety of frequencies, and are participating in the new Simons Observatory for CMB studies. Russell Fellows will have data rights to the Hyper Suprime-Cam Survey and the Prime Focus Spectrograph Survey on the Subaru 8.2m telescope. They can also apply to join ACT and the Simons Observatory, for which Princeton has institutional membership. Russell Fellows will also be able to apply for Princeton’s share of time on the Magellan 6.5-meter telescopes and have access to the extensive Princeton research computing facilities. These include a variety of high-performance (petaflop) clusters with both CPUs and GPUs, large shared-memory systems for data analysis and visualization, and multiple petabytes of data storage.
Appointments are for one year, renewable annually based on satisfactory performance, for a total of up to three years. The expected starting date is September 1, 2023, although this is flexible. A PhD in Astronomy or a related field is required.
Interested persons should submit a curriculum vitae, a publication list and a research statement, and provide contact information for three references by November 1, 2022 at 11:59pm EST. Our department is committed to diversity and making the field more equitable and inclusive. With this in mind, we will take into consideration personal experiences, as well as efforts in education, outreach or other service activities related to astrophysics or other sciences. Applicants are invited to describe such experiences and their commitment to diversity, equity and inclusion in a separate statement, but this is not required.
Applicants should apply via the web at: https://puwebp.princeton.edu/AcadHire/position/27583. Letters of recommendation will also be handled through this site. All applications received by November 1, 2022 at 11:59pm EST will be fully considered, but applications will continue to be accepted until all available positions are filled. All applications will be considered for all postdoctoral positions available in the department, including department fellowships and grant supported positions, but you will be asked in the application which positions you are interested in. For further inquiries, contact [email protected].
This position is subject to the University’s background check policy. Princeton University is an Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action employer and all qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to age, race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, national origin, disability status, protected veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by law.
Carnegie-Princeton Postdoctoral Fellowship
The Observatories of the Carnegie Institution for Science and the Department of Astrophysical Sciences of Princeton University invite applications for a four-year postdoctoral fellowship in astronomy, to begin in fall 2023. Fellows are expected to work two years at the main offices of the Observatories in Pasadena and two years at Princeton (one-year term renewed annually at a rank of Postdoctoral Research Associate or more senior research position), in an order to be negotiated with the applicant. Carnegie-Princeton Fellows will carry out original research in any area of astronomy or astrophysics, either independently or in collaboration with staff, faculty or students at the host institutions. The principal selection criteria will be outstanding research accomplishments and promise of future achievement. Top candidates will indicate directly how they will exploit resources from both Carnegie and Princeton. Preference will be given to researchers working in those areas in which Carnegie and Princeton have active research interests.
The fellows will have access to all of the resources and facilities of both institutions. In particular: The Carnegie Institution owns and operates the Las Campanas Observatory in Chile, which includes the twin 6.5-meter Magellan telescopes, and the 2.5-meter du Pont and 1.0-meter Swope telescopes. Carnegie is also a full institutional member of the Sloan Digital Sky Survey V. Based in Pasadena, between the Jet Propulsion Laboratory and the California Institute of Technology, the Observatories provide an exceptional intellectual environment and access to resources for theorists, observers, and instrumentalists alike. The Department of Astrophysical Sciences at Princeton is a major partner in the Atacama Cosmology Telescope, the Simons Observatory, and the Rubin Observatory Legacy Survey of Space and Time. The department is collaborating with the Japanese astronomical community on large imaging and spectroscopic surveys with the Subaru Telescope, focused on extragalactic astronomy (the Hyper Suprime-Cam survey). In addition, we are heavily involved in the Prime Focus Spectrograph Survey. The successful applicant will have the right to join all these surveys. Carnegie-Princeton Fellows will also have access to the extensive Princeton research computing facilities. These include a variety of high-performance (petaflop) clusters with both CPUs and GPUs, large shared-memory systems for data analysis and visualization, and multiple petabytes of data storage. Together with research groups in other departments in the university and the nearby Institute for Advanced Study, the department offers an unparalleled environment for research in theoretical and observational astrophysics and cosmology.
The position provides support for observing, travel, computing and publications, and the observing and computational facilities at both institutions will be accessible for the entire duration of the position. Further information on the host institutions is available at obs.carnegiescience.edu and https://web.astro.princeton.edu/.
Interested persons should submit a cover letter, curriculum vitae, bibliography, a research statement describing the applicant's previous research and future research plans (up to five pages including references), a broader impact statement (one page), and provide contact information for three references. The broader impact statement should articulate the applicant's past accomplishments and future plans in any of the following areas: contributions to diversity, equity, and inclusion, mentoring, service work, and outreach. For further information, please see https://obs.carnegiescience.edu/broader-impact-statement-information-2022-fellowship-applications and https://web.astro.princeton.edu/climate. Applications must be sent to BOTH the Observatories and to Princeton via the web at https://obs.carnegiescience.edu/fellowships/ AND https://puwebp.princeton.edu/AcadHire/position/27583 by November 1, 2022 at 11:59pm EST. Letters of reference are requested to be submitted by November 7, 2022 at 11:59pm EST.
Princeton and Carnegie strive to enable a scientifically excellent, equitable, and inclusive community, and therefore aim for diverse groups of people to collaborate and thrive in their departments. With this in mind, we will take into consideration personal experiences, as well as efforts in education, outreach or other service activities related to astrophysics or other sciences. Applicants are asked to describe such experiences and their commitment to diversity, equity and inclusion, describing how they have contributed to such community characteristics in previous positions and how those contributions have been informed by their life experiences. Candidates from under-represented groups and backgrounds are encouraged to apply.
Selection of the successful candidate(s) will be made by a joint Carnegie-Princeton committee. All applicants will automatically be considered for all postdoctoral positions in the Astrophysical Sciences department at Princeton and for the Carnegie Fellowship at The Observatories; however, they should clearly state in the cover letter that they wish to be considered for the Carnegie-Princeton Fellowship. A PhD in Astronomy or a related field is required.
This position is subject to Princeton University’s background check policy.
Princeton University and the Carnegie Observatories are Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action employers and all qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to age, race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, national origin, disability status, protected veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by law.
For questions or additional information, please send email to [email protected] and/or [email protected]. For additional information on the fellowship program at Carnegie, please visit: https://obs.carnegiescience.edu/fellowships. For additional information on other positions in the Department of Astrophysical Sciences, please visit: https://web.astro.princeton.edu/jobs.
Astrophysical Plasma Theory and Simulation
The Department of Astrophysical Sciences at Princeton University invites applications for a postdoctoral or more senior research position in astrophysical plasma theory and simulation. The successful candidate will work with Prof. Anatoly Spitkovsky on applications of particle-in-cell and other plasma simulation methods to astrophysical problems, including the physics of collisionless shocks, cosmic rays, pulsar magnetospheres, accretion, and modeling and design of laboratory astrophysics experiments. A strong background in high-energy astrophysics, plasma physics, computational science, and parallel computing is preferred. The successful candidate will have access to state-of-the-art computational facilities, opportunities for collaboration, and support for travel.
Appointments are for one year, renewable annually based on funding and satisfactory performance, for a total of up to three years. The expected starting date is September 1, 2023, although this is flexible. A PhD in Astronomy, Physics, or a related field is required.
Interested persons should submit a curriculum vitae, a publication list, and a research statement, and provide contact information for three references by November 1, 2022 at 11:59pm EST. Our department is committed to diversity and making the field more equitable and inclusive. With this in mind, we will take into consideration personal experiences, as well as efforts in education, outreach or other service activities related to astrophysics or other sciences. Applicants are invited to describe such experiences and their commitment to diversity, equity and inclusion in a separate statement, but this is not required.
Applicants should apply via the web at: https://puwebp.princeton.edu/AcadHire/position/27583. . Letters of recommendation will also be handled through this site. All applications received by November 1, 2022 at 11:59pm EST will be fully considered, but applications will continue to be accepted until all available positions are filled. All applications will be considered for all postdoctoral positions available in the department, but you will be asked in the application which positions you are interested in. For further inquiries, contact [email protected].
This position is subject to the University's background check policy. Princeton University is an Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action employer and all qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability status, protected veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by law.
The Department of Astrophysical Sciences at Princeton University invites applications for a postdoctoral research position in cosmology. The successful candidate will work with Prof. Jo Dunkley on analysis and interpretation of cosmic microwave background data for the Atacama Cosmology Telescope and/or Simons Observatory projects, with opportunities for joint analyses with large scale structure data from ongoing optical surveys. The successful candidate will have access to state-of-the-art computational facilities, opportunities for collaboration, and support for travel.
Appointments are for one year, renewable annually based on satisfactory performance and funding, for a total of up to three years. The expected starting date is September 1, 2023, although this is flexible. A PhD in Astronomy or a related field is required.
Interested persons should submit a curriculum vitae, a publication list, and a research statement, and provide contact information for three references by November 1, 2022 at 11:59pm EST. Our department is committed to diversity and making the field more equitable and inclusive. With this in mind, we will take into consideration personal experiences, as well as efforts in education, outreach or other service activities related to astrophysics or other sciences. Applicants are invited to describe such experiences and their commitment to diversity, equity and inclusion in a separate statement, but this is not required.
Applicants should apply via the web at: https://puwebp.princeton.edu/AcadHire/position/27583. Letters of recommendation will also be handled through this site. All applications received by November 1, 2022 at 11:59pm EST will be fully considered, but applications will continue to be accepted until all available positions are filled. All applications will be considered for all postdoctoral positions available in the department, including departmental fellowships and grant supported positions, but you will be asked in the application which positions you are interested in. For further inquiries, contact [email protected].
This position is subject to the University’s background check policy. Princeton University is an Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action employer and all qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to age, race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, national origin, disability status, protected veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by law.
Machine Learning and Cosmology
The Department of Astrophysical Sciences, Princeton University invites applications for a postdoctoral research position in ML x Cosmology. The successful candidate will work with Dr. Francisco Villaescusa-Navarro and Profs. Romain Teyssier and David Spergel, developing and applying machine learning techniques to problems in cosmology and astrophysics, broadly defined. The successful candidate will join the CAMELS collaboration and will have access to state-of-the-art computational facilities, opportunities for collaboration, and support for travel.
Appointments are for one year, renewable annually based on satisfactory performance and funding, for a total of up to two years at Princeton. The third year will be at CCA, with an appointment at the Flatiron Institute. The expected starting date is September 1, 2023, although this is flexible. A PhD in Astronomy or a related field is required.
Interested persons should submit a curriculum vitae, a publication list, and a research statement, and provide contact information for three references by November 1, 2022 at 11:59pm EST. Our department is committed to diversity and making the field more equitable and inclusive. With this in mind, we will take into consideration personal experiences, as well as efforts in education, outreach or other service activities related to astrophysics or other sciences. Applicants are invited to describe such experiences and their commitment to diversity, equity and inclusion in a separate statement, but this is not required.
Applicants should apply via the web at: https://puwebp.princeton.edu/AcadHire/position/27583. Letters of recommendation will also be handled through this site. All applications received by November 1, 2022 at 11:59pm EST will be fully considered, but applications will continue to be accepted until all available positions are filled. All applications will be considered for all postdoctoral positions available in the department, including departmental fellowships and grant supported positions, but you will be asked in the application which positions you are interested in. For further inquiries, contact [email protected].
This position is subject to the University’s background check policy. Princeton University is an Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action employer and all qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to age, race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, national origin, disability status, protected veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by law.
Multimessenger Plasma Physics Center (MPPC)
The Department of Astrophysical Sciences at Princeton University, the Department of Astronomy and the Department of Physics at Columbia University, and the Department of Physics at University of Maryland, College Park, invite applications for a four-year postdoctoral research associate position in plasma astrophysics as part of the new NSF-funded Multimessenger Plasma Physics Center (MPPC). MPPC is a multi-institutional collaboration between Princeton University, Columbia University, University of Maryland, and Washington University in St. Louis, that is dedicated to studying plasma processes that occur in astrophysical sources of multimessenger astronomy. In particular, the core research topics of MPPC include global modeling of magnetospheres of merging neutron stars, black hole accretion flares, acceleration of ultra-high energy cosmic rays, physics of cosmic ray transport, dynamics of relativistic plasmas undergoing radiative reconnection, and other processes relevant to electromagnetic counterparts of multimessenger signals.
Applicants with interest and experience in high-energy astrophysics theory and modeling, and in plasma theory and simulation are strongly encouraged to apply. The successful candidate(s) are expected to carry out research on center topics independently and in collaboration with other center members. Faculty involved in MPPC projects include A. Spitkovsky, A. Bhattacharjee, E. Quataert (Princeton), L. Sironi, A. Beloborodov (Columbia), A. Philippov, J. Drake (UMd), and Y. Yuan (WU). To enable cross-collaboration work, the successful candidate(s) will spend two years at either Princeton, Columbia or UMd followed by two years at one of the other center institutions; institutions with the best research fit, and therefore the order of institutions, will be agreed upon with the applicants upon acceptance of the position. MPPC fellows will have access to outstanding computing facilities and support for collaborative and conference travel.
In order to be considered for these joint positions, candidates must submit their application by November 1, 2022 at 11:59pm EST, at the following link:
https://puwebp.princeton.edu/AcadHire/position/27583
The expected starting date is September 1, 2023, although this is flexible. A PhD in Physics, Astronomy, or a related field is required.
Interested persons should submit a curriculum vitae, a publication list and a research statement, and provide contact information for three references. All applications received by November 1, 2022 at 11:59pm EST will be fully considered, but applications will continue to be accepted until all available positions are filled.
All applicants at the above link will automatically be considered for all postdoctoral positions in the Astrophysical Sciences Department at Princeton; to indicate particular interest in the joint MPPC position, select the “MPPC” button. Appointments at each institution are for one year with the expectation of renewal for a second year subject to satisfactory performance and availability of funding. This position is subject to Princeton University’s background check policy.
Each of the center institutions is committed to diversity and making the field more equitable and inclusive. Princeton University, Columbia University and UMd are Equal Opportunity/ Affirmative Action employers and all qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, national origin, disability status, protected veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by law.
The Department of Astrophysical Sciences, Princeton University, invites applications for a postdoctoral or more senior research position in statistical astronomy. The successful candidate(s) will work with Prof. Peter Melchior to design and build analysis methods for next-generation surveys (imaging and spectroscopy), and pursue their own research interests. Experience in signal processing, data fusion, deep learning, or simulation-based inference is an advantage. The successful candidate(s) will have access to state-of-the-art computational facilities, opportunities for collaboration, and support for travel.
Appointments are for one year, renewable annually based on satisfactory performance and funding, for a total of up to three years. The expected starting date is September 1, 2023, although this is flexible. A PhD in Astronomy or a related field is required.
Interested persons should submit a curriculum vitae, a publication list, a research statement, and provide contact information for three references by November 1, 2022 at 11:59pm EST. Our department is committed to diversity and making the field more equitable and inclusive. With this in mind, we will take into consideration personal experiences, as well as efforts in education, outreach or other service activities related to astrophysics or other sciences. Applicants are invited to describe such experiences and their commitment to diversity, equity and inclusion in a separate statement, but this is not required.
Applicants should apply via the web at: https://puwebp.princeton.edu/AcadHire/position/27583. Letters of recommendation will also be handled through this site. All applications received by November 1, 2022 at 11:59pm EST will be fully considered, but applications will continue to be accepted until all available positions are filled. All applications will be considered for all postdoctoral positions available in the department, including departmental fellowships and grant supported positions, but you will be asked in the application which positions you are interested in. For further inquiries, contact [email protected].
This position is subject to the University’s background check policy. Princeton University is an Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action employer and all qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to age, race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, national origin, disability status, protected veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by law.
The Department of Astrophysical Sciences at Princeton University invites applications for a postdoctoral or more senior research position in theoretical astrophysics. The successful candidate will work with Prof. Eliot Quataert and other members of the Department of Astrophysical Sciences on problems in any area of theoretical astrophysics.
Appointments are for one year, renewable annually based on funding and satisfactory performance, for a total of up to three years. The expected starting date is September 1, 2023, although this is flexible. A PhD in Astronomy or a related field is required.
Interested persons should submit a curriculum vitae, a publication list and a research statement, and provide contact information for three references by November 1, 2022 by 11:59pm EST. Our department is committed to diversity and making the field more equitable and inclusive. With this in mind, we will take into consideration personal experiences, as well as efforts in education, outreach or other service activities related to astrophysics or other sciences. Applicants are invited to describe such experiences and their commitment to diversity, equity and inclusion in a separate statement, but this is not required.
Applicants should apply via the web at: https://puwebp.princeton.edu/AcadHire/position/27583. Letters of recommendation will also be handled through this site. All applications received by November 1, 2022 by 11:59pm EST will be fully considered, but applications will continue to be accepted until all available positions are filled. All applications will be considered for all postdoctoral positions available in the department, including department fellowships and grant supported positions, but you will be asked in the application which positions you are interested in. For further inquiries, contact [email protected].
This position is subject to the University’s background check policy. Princeton University is an Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action employer and all qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to age, race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, national origin, disability status, protected veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by law.
The following department positions are applied to individually:
Future Faculty in the Physical Sciences Postdoctoral Fellowship
Princeton University invites applications for the newly established Future Faculty in the Physical Sciences (FFPS) Fellowship. We seek a diverse cohort of early career scientists who will conduct research in physics, broadly defined to include the subdisciplines of astrophysics, biophysics, and geophysics and planetary physics, independently or in collaboration with Princeton faculty, postdoctoral researchers and students. The Fellowship aims to increase excellence at Princeton by bringing scholars with unique backgrounds and insights, whose work will contribute to the promotion of groups that have been historically, and are presently, under-represented in physics and related fields. Candidates who have demonstrated a strong commitment to remedying the historical under-representation of people of color and women in the physical sciences by promoting inclusion, equity, and diversity through teaching, advising, mentoring, advocacy, or public outreach are especially encouraged to apply.
FFPS Fellows will have a primary home in the Department of Physics, of Astrophysical Sciences, or of Geosciences, and will be part of an actively mentored research community across institutional affiliations, including the Princeton Center for Theoretical Science, the Center for the Physics of Biological Function, the Princeton Gravity Initiative, and other Centers and Programs. The Fellowship includes an annual research fund. Appointments will be made at the postdoctoral or more senior research rank. Appointments are for one year, renewable annually based on satisfactory performance and funding, for a total of up to three years. The expected starting date is September 1, 2023, although this is flexible. A PhD in the physical sciences or a related field is required. Interested persons should submit a curriculum vitae, a bibliography, a statement of research interests and plans, and should provide contact information for three references by November 15, 2022, 11:59pm EST.
A personal statement and/or a description of the applicant's work in broadening opportunities in the field should be included as a separate section of the research statement. Applicants must apply via the web at: https://www.princeton.edu/acad-positions/position/27441. Letters of recommendation will also be handled through this site. All applications received by November 15, 2022, 11:59pm EST will be fully considered, but applications will continue to be accepted until the position(s) are filled. Only submissions through the application website will be considered. For further inquiries, contact [email protected].
This position is subject to the University's background-check policy. Princeton University is an Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action employer and all qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to age, race, color, religion, sex, gender, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, national origin, disability status, protected veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by law.
Experimental Observational Space Physics
The Space Physics Group in the Department of Astrophysical Sciences, Princeton University, anticipates offering one or more postdoctoral or more senior research positions in experimental/observational space physics.
The Space Physics Group conducts research in many aspects of space physics (aka heliophysics), with a strong emphasis on experimental and observational space plasma physics. Among others, the Group currently leads NASA's Interstellar Boundary Explorer (IBEX) mission, the Parker Solar Probe (PSP) Integrated Science Investigation of the Sun (ISIS) instrument suite, and the Interstellar Mapping and Acceleration Probe (IMAP) mission, in development for launch in 2025 to explore the details of particle acceleration and the Sun's interaction with the local interstellar medium. See https://spacephysics.princeton.edu/ for more information about the Space Physics Group at Princeton University.
The successful candidate(s) can play a major role in one or more of the following: 1) analysis and publication of Energetic Neutral Atom (ENA) and other observations from IBEX, 2) analysis and publication of energetic particle observations from ISIS, 3) development of the experimental capability of the Group, and development of space flight instrumentation for IMAP, and 4) other funded space physics research in the Group. Preferred qualifications include having prior experience in the development of space flight instrumentation, analyzing ENA and/or energetic particle data, and the proven ability to lead/participate in the rapid development and publication of numerous excellent research articles. A Ph.D. in Space Physics or a related field is required. Appointments are for one year, renewable annually based on satisfactory performance and continued funding, with the expectation of up to three years. Positions are available regularly so that starting dates may be negotiated.
Interested persons must apply online at https://puwebp.princeton.edu/AcadHire/position/26909 and submit a curriculum vitae, bibliography, a brief statement of research interests, and provide contact information for three references. Letters of recommendation will also be handled through this site. Applications will continue to be accepted until positions are filled. For further inquiries, contact spacephysicsATprinceton.edu.
These positions are subject to the University's background check policy. Princeton University is an Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action employer, and all qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to age, race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, national origin, disability status, protected veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by law.
The Department of Astrophysical Sciences and Princeton Center for Heliophysics at Princeton University invites applications for one or more postdoctoral or more senior research positions in space and planetary sciences. The successful candidate will work with Dr. Chuanfei Dong on a wide range of topics, including but not limited to, star-planet interactions, solar energetic particle transport through the heliosphere and its impact on planetary atmospheres, magnetohydrodynamic turbulence and plasma turbulence, and data-driven discovery of partial differential equations. A strong background in space and planetary science, heliophysics, plasma physics, parallel computing and/or machine learning is preferred. The successful candidate will have access to state-of-the-art computational facilities and laboratory experiments, opportunities for collaboration with people in the Department of Astrophysical Sciences and Princeton Plasma Physics Laboratory (PPPL), and support for travel.
Appointments are for one year, renewable annually based on funding and satisfactory performance, for a total of up to three years. The expected starting date is July 1, 2022, although this is flexible. A PhD in Space Science, Astrophysics, or a related field is required.
Interested persons should submit a curriculum vitae, a publication list, and a research statement (up to two pages), and provide contact information for three references by June 10, 2022 - 11:59pm Eastern Time. Our department is committed to diversity and making the field more equitable and inclusive. With this in mind, we will take into consideration personal experiences, as well as efforts in education, outreach or other service activities related to astrophysics or other sciences. Applicants are invited to describe such experiences and their commitment to diversity, equity and inclusion in the cover letter.
Applicants must apply via the web at: https://puwebp.princeton.edu/AcadHire/position/26161. Letters of recommendation will also be handled through this site. All applications received by June 10, 2022 11:59 pm Eastern Time will be fully considered, but applications will continue to be accepted until the position is filled. For further inquiries, contact [email protected].
This position is subject to the University's background check policy. Princeton University is an Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action Employer and all qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to age, race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, national origin, disability status, protected veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by law.
Magnetized Multi-ion Transport in Plasma with Application to Nuclear Fusion
A postdoctoral or more senior researcher is sought in the Department of Astrophysical Sciences at Princeton University. The researcher will participate in theoretical and computational studies in the area of magnetized multi-ion transport in plasma with application to nuclear fusion, including aneutronic fusion. Successful applicants will have a recent PhD in theoretical plasma physics. A strong background in fluid dynamics, computational physics, and statistical mechanics will be valuable.
The appointment is for one year, with the possibility of renewal for a second year, depending on funds and performance. Salary and rank will be commensurate with experience. The start date is negotiable, but preferably by January 2023. Applicants must apply online and submit a curriculum vita, bibliography, a statement of research interest, and provide contact information for three reference at:https://puwebp.princeton.edu/AcadHire/position/26981. Letters of recommendation will also be handled through this site.
Applications will be reviewed as they are received. Applications should be submitted by December 1, 2022, 11:59pm ET for full consideration.
This position is subject to Princeton University's background check policy. Princeton University is an Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action Employer, and all qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to age, race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, national origin, disability status, protected veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by law.
Visiting Fellows in Space Physics Program
The Space Physics at Princeton Group (https://spacephysics.princeton.edu/) in the Department of Astrophysical Sciences is pleased to offer Visiting Fellow positions. The program supports faculty and equivalent senior researchers to do intensive research in residence at Princeton for periods from one month up to a full year. Visiting Fellows will work closely with Space Physics at Princeton Group members on one or more of several topical areas: 1) Energetic Particles observations from Parker Solar Probe, 2) Energetic Neutral Atom and/or Interstellar Neutral Atom observations from the Interstellar Boundary Explorer (IBEX), and 3) scientific preparations for the Interstellar Mapping and Acceleration Probe (IMAP). The environment is scientifically intense, highly collaborative, and extremely rewarding. The goal of the program is to strengthen the Group with new and diverse perspectives while carrying out world-class research and publishing numerous papers in collaboration with the Group. Visiting Fellow positions are suitable for faculty members on sabbatical and other comparable senior researchers on leave from their primary appointments. Financial support (including stipend and/or housing) may be offered. Interested researchers should submit to https://puwebp.princeton.edu/AcadHire/position/25641 the following: 1) a brief cover letter stating the specific reasons you'd like to visit the Space Physics at Princeton Group and the dates you're available to visit and 2) a CV.
The following positions are also of interest:
The Princeton Gravity Initiative is seeking exceptional Ph.D. recipients in theoretical gravitational theory for an honorific postdoctoral fellowship program. The Princeton Gravity Initiative is a new collaborative effort between Princeton University's Astrophysics, Mathematics, and Physics Departments to explore the fundamental nature of gravity; see https://gravity.princeton.edu for more information. Candidates from all areas of research focusing on gravitational theory, including gravitational wave astrophysics, mathematical relativity, early universe cosmology, and quantum gravity, will be considered.
These appointments will be at the rank of Associate Research Scholar. Several positions may be available. The appointments will be annual with the expectation of renewal for two additional years subject to satisfactory performance. We are committed to diversity, equity, and inclusion and thus seek to recruit candidates who, through their research, teaching, and service, will contribute to the diversity and excellence of the academic community.
This position is subject to the University's background check policy. To apply online, please visit https://puwebp.princeton.edu/AcadHire/position/26907 and submit a cover letter (which can include a research statement of up to three pages in length), CV, and contact information for three references.
To ensure full consideration, all materials, including letters of reference, must be received by November 1, 2022.
For more information, contact Frans Pretorius at [email protected].
51 Pegasi b Fellowship in Planetary Astronomy
The 51 Pegasi b Fellowship provides exceptional postdoctoral scientists with the opportunity to conduct theoretical, observational, and experimental research in planetary astronomy.
Established in 2017, the Heising-Simons Foundation 51 Pegasi b Fellowship is named for the first exoplanet discovered orbiting a Sun-like star. The growing field of planetary astronomy studies objects both within and beyond our solar system, bridging planetary science and astronomy. From improving our understanding of planetary system formation and evolution, to advancing new technologies for detecting other worlds, 51 Pegasi b Fellows make a unique contribution to the field.
The Heising-Simons Foundation is committed to diversity, equity, and inclusion. Thus, we particularly welcome applications from individuals who belong to groups that have been historically underrepresented in planetary sciences and astronomy, such as women, persons with disabilities, racial and ethnic minorities, gender and sexual minorities, and others who may contribute to the diversification of the field.
51 Pegasi b Fellowship research must be pursued at one of the following participating institutions:
- California Institute of Technology
- Cornell University
- Johns Hopkins University
- Harvard University / Harvard Smithsonian
- Massachusetts Institute of Technology
- Pennsylvania State University
- Princeton University
- The Ohio State University
- University of Arizona
- University of California, Berkeley
- University of California, Los Angeles
- University of California, Santa Cruz
- University of Chicago
- University of Hawaii
- University of Maryland
- University of Michigan
- University of Texas, Austin
- Yale University
For guidelines and application information, see here.
The Space Telescope Science Institute is collaborating with The Brinson Foundation to support the Brinson Prize Fellowship program. These fellowships are awarded to early career astrophysicists and cosmologists who are committed to chasing bold ideas with creative, nimble, and innovative research. The fellowships focus on supporting research in observational cosmology, particularly complementing and capitalizing on space science, including topics such as the first stars, the cosmic distance scale, and the development of large-scale structure.
Brinson Fellowships are tenable at participating U.S. host institutions. The fellowship provides up to three years of support for independent research, including an annual research stipend.
Participating Institutions:
- California Institution of Technology
- University of Chicago
- Princeton University
- Stanford University
For announcement of opportunity, see here.
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Q: You have a lot of postdoc ads here. Do I need to apply separately for each postdoc position I'm interested in?
A: Most of our positions may be applied for with a single application, found here: https://puwebp.princeton.edu/AcadHire/position/27583. You should indicate in that application which positions you are interested in.
However:
For the Carnegie-Princeton Fellowship, you must ALSO apply directly to Carnegie here: http://www.obs.carnegiescience.edu/fellowships/.
The following department positions must be applied to individually:
Future Faculty in the Physical Sciences Fellowship
Experimental/Observational Space Physics
Space and Planetary Sciences
Magnetized Multi-ion Transport in Plasma with Application to Nuclear Fusion
Visiting Fellows in Space Physics Program
For the positions of interest, please see the individual ads for application information.
Q: How long should my research statement be?
A: For all of our positions, we will accept the AAS Postdoctoral Application Guidelines (see https://jobregister.aas.org/postdoc-application-guidelines). If you are applying for the Carnegie-Princeton Fellowship, we will accept a longer statement (up to 5 pages) for all positions for which you are applying.
Q: Can I list Princeton as a host institution for the external fellowship for which I am applying?
A: Princeton University is an eligible host institution for national fellowships such as the NASA Hubble Postdoctoral Fellowship and the NSF AAPF. Candidates should contact the proposed faculty sponsor. Princeton is also one of a select group of institutions eligible to host both the Brinson Prize Fellowship sponsored by STScI and the 51 Pegasi b Fellowhip in Planetary Astronomy sponsored by the Heising-Simons Foundation. Princeton is home to a vibrant research program in this area, including theoreticians, observers, and instrument builders, as well as links to major international projects such as the Transiting Exoplanet Survey Satellite, the HATNet, the HATSouth global network of telescopes, the HATPI all-sky survey, and the Terra Hunting Experiment. Postdoctoral candidates who may be interested in designating Princeton as a host institution for the 51 Peg Fellowship are encouraged to contact Professor Adam Burrows in advance, to explore possible projects and connections to existing efforts.
Q: When are recommendation letters due?
A: Recommendation letters are due about a week after you submit your application, preferably no later than November 8. No application will be discounted due to late letters, although it will delay our full and careful review of your application. Once you submit your application, you will have one day to make any changes on your own. At the conclusion of that one day, your references will receive an email, each with a unique url to upload their letter for you. The email will ask them to please upload their letter within one week.
Q: Who do I contact if I have more questions?
A: Please send an e-mail to [email protected] with any questions. We will do our best to reply in a timely manner.
Lyman Spitzer, Jr.
(1914-1997)
