Job Description

The Postdoctoral Research Associate will conduct scientific research using James Webb Space Telescope (JWST) and Hubble Space Telescope (HST) multi-band imaging data to investigate the extent to which young, massive stars obscure older stellar populations in integrated-light studies of the early universe, a phenomenon known as “outshining.” The research will focus on understanding and calibrating outshining bias through detailed analysis of the full range of stellar populations in a sample of low-redshift analogs of high-redshift galaxies using new and archival JWST and HST observations.

The position will work closely with the Principal Investigator of the joint JWST-HST program and collaborate with NOIRLab researchers and a U.S.-based research team with expertise in both the low-redshift and high-redshift universe. The position is based at NSF NOIRLab's Tucson headquarters and provides opportunities for scientific collaboration and engagement with the broader NOIRLab and Steward Observatory research communities. The position is set to start in Fall 2027.

Essential Functions

• Perform near-ultraviolet (UV) to near-infrared (IR) multi-band photometric analyses of resolved stellar populations using JWST, HST, and related observational data.
• Conduct simultaneous analyses of multiple color-magnitude diagrams (CMDs) to derive global and spatially resolved star formation histories (SFHs).
• Analyze broadband, per-star spectral energy distributions (SEDs) to characterize stellar properties and line-of-sight dust extinction.
• Develop and apply methods to emulate high-redshift observations using nearby galaxy data and perform integrated-light SED analyses to measure and evaluate stellar masses and related properties.
• Investigate resolved stellar populations in nearby star-forming galaxies to characterize their properties and establish connections to the interpretation of galaxies in the early universe.
• Develop, validate, document, and deliver science-ready data products in support of the research program.
• Lead the analysis, interpretation, and dissemination of research findings through peer-reviewed scientific publications and presentations.
• Collaborate with project investigators and research team members in the interpretation of scientific results and advancement of the program's research objectives.
• All AURA employees are responsible for the proper management and control of all AURA property within their work area, whether assigned to them or someone else. This responsibility includes reporting any known missing, stolen, or non-working property in their work area to their supervisor or the AURA Property Officer.
• Responsible for ensuring compliance with government award terms and conditions assigned to this position or subordinates of this position.

Other Functions

• Other duties as assigned

Requirements

• PhD. in Astronomy, Physics, Astrophysics, or a closely related field by the start date of the appointment.
• Demonstrated research experience in one or more relevant areas, such as resolved stellar populations in nearby galaxies, star formation histories, stellar population analysis, and per-star and/or integrated-light spectral energy distribution (SED) modeling.
• Demonstrated ability to conduct independent scientific research while collaborating effectively with multidisciplinary research teams across geographically distributed locations.

Preferred Qualification

• Experience with color-magnitude diagram (CMD) fitting software and methodologies to derive star formation histories (SFHs).
• Experience with per-star and/or integrated-light spectral energy distribution (SED) modeling tools and methodologies.
• Experience analyzing JWST and/or HST imaging data.

Physical Demands:

The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

• Must be able to remain in a stationary position at least 50% of the time.
• Occasional need to move about inside the office environment to access files, office tools, attendance in a meeting room, etc.
• Constantly operates a computer and other office productivity tools that require fine motor skills, such as a calculator, copy machine, computer printer, etc.
• May occasionally need to position self to maintain computer and related tools.
• Seldomly needed to move objects up to 10 pounds.
• Constant communication with other individuals. Must be able to discern and exchange information as appropriate to the situation.
• Constant need to distinguish, discern, and identify a variety of objects and fine details with accuracy.
• Occasional work at high elevation summit sites may be required (summit elevations range from 6,800 feet to 14,000 feet)

The above statements are intended to describe the general nature and level of work being performed by individuals assigned to this position. They are not intended to be an exhaustive list of all duties, responsibilities and skills required by personnel so classified. This Institute promotes Equal Employment Opportunity workplace that includes reasonable accommodations to otherwise qualified, disabled applicants and employees.

Work Environment:

This position operates in a professional office environment and routinely utilizes standard office equipment, including computers, phones, and copiers. The work environment is generally quiet and may involve working in close proximity to others, depending on the needs of the specific function.

AURA offers an excellent benefits package including paid time off and retirement plan contributions, competitive salary commensurate with experience, and a very attractive work environment. Details on benefits can be found at Benefits by Location - Aura Human Resources

The following materials are requested in a single PDF file: a one-page cover letter detailing your research interests and relevant expertise, a curriculum vitae including a list of publications, and a summary of previous and current research (limited to 3 pages). Also, applicants should arrange for three confidential letters of reference to be submitted on their behalf. Complete applications received by December 31, 2026, will receive full consideration, but applications will be accepted until the position is filled.

Individuals needing assistance with the employment process can request assistance here.