Job Description

Postdoctoral Research Associate, Direct Imaging and Instrument Development (Steward Observatory) Posting Number req27619 Department Steward Observatory Department Website Link https://astro.arizona.edu/ Location Tucson Campus Address Tucson, AZ USA Position Highlights

The University of Arizona (UA) Department of Astronomy and Steward Observatory (SO) are excited to invite applications for Postdoctoral Research Associates interested in research related to high contrast imaging and spectroscopy of exoplanets and substellar companions.

As a Postdoctoral Research Associate, you will have the opportunity to work closely with Dr. Brittany Miles along with staff and engineers from the Center for Astronomical Adaptive Optics (CAAO). You will be encouraged to integrate into the lab and Steward Observatory to support an collaborative scholarly environment in research, mentoring, and service. Your research will focus on:

1. Integration and commissioning of the first ever, coronagraphic, adaptive optics assisted, long-wavelength infrared IFU.
2. Development of thermal IR instrumentation and science for the Large Binocular Telescope and 30-meter class telescopes.

Throughout your postdoctoral journey with us, you will be encouraged to conduct your own independent research, as time permits, and will be able to apply for time on any Steward facility directly as a PI. You will be expected to lead high-profile, independent research in exoplanet and brown dwarf atmospheres as well as collaborate with SO faculty and scholars in the Department of Astronomy.

UA/SO offers a world-class research environment in space science and astrophysics with strong interdisciplinary programs across the Departments of Astronomy, Physics, Optical Sciences, and Planetary Sciences. We provide direct access to various world-class observational and computational facilities for ground-based radio and optical observing.

Steward Observatory is both a century-old observatory on the University of Arizona campus and one of the University’s oldest research units. The Observatory brings together students, staff, faculty, engineers, and technicians to explore the universe and share discoveries through world-class research, education, and outreach. With more than 180 professionals supporting advanced facilities, laboratories, and observatories, Steward Observatory offers a collaborative environment where technical expertise plays a critical role in advancing ground- and space-based astronomy.

Outstanding UA benefits includehealth, dental, vision,and life insurance; paid vacation, sick leave, and holidays; UA/ASU/NAU tuition reduction for the employee and qualified family members; access to UA recreation and cultural activities; and more!

The University of Arizona has been recognized for our innovative work-life programs. For more information about working at the University of Arizona and relocations services, please click here.

Duties & Responsibilities

• Develop and lead an independent research agenda centered on thermal IR instrumentation and the characterization of planetary atmospheres; disseminate work through publications and presentations; contribute to public-engagement opportunities.
• Develop and implement research initiatives, collaborations, publications, and/or events (e.g., talks, workshops, visitor programs, etc.) as needed and relevant to research agendas.
• Collaborate with faculty and scholars in support of a collegial academic environment (including organizing collaborative meetings, supervising/mentoring graduate and undergraduate students).

Minimum Qualifications

• Must have completed all the requirements for a PhD in Astronomy, Physics, Astrophysics, or related science at the time of hire.

Preferred Qualifications

• Candidates with a PhD in astronomy/astrophysics are preferred.
• Research experience relevant to one or more of the following scientific areas:
• Experience with operating and testing astronomical instruments.
• Experience with infrared observations and data reduction.

FLSA Exempt Full Time/Part Time Full Time Number of Hours Worked per Week 40 Job FTE 1.0 Work Calendar Fiscal Job Category Research Benefits Eligible Yes - Full Benefits Rate of Pay NIH salary guidelines, Depends on Experience. Compensation Type salary at 1.0 full-time equivalency (FTE) Type of criminal background check required: Name-based criminal background check (non-security sensitive) Number of Vacancies 1 Target Hire Date Expected End Date Contact Information for Candidates Brittany Miles

Assistant Professor, Astronomy

bemiles@arizona.edu Open Date 11/10/2026 Open Until Filled Yes Documents Needed to Apply Curriculum Vitae (CV), Cover Letter, and Two Additional Documents Special Instructions to Applicant

Documents Required to apply:

1. CV (limit: 2 pages), and list three potential reference writers
2. Cover letter
3. Research statement (limit: 5 pages)
4. List of Publications

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