Post-Doctoral Research in Star Formation and Stellar Populations in Nearby Galaxies
Space Telescope Science Institute
Summary
The Space Telescope Science Institute (STScI) invites applications for a post-doctoral position to work with Dr. Janice Lee and her research groups on observational studies of star and cluster formation, stellar evolution, star formation feedback, the multi-phase interstellar medium, and stellar populations of nearby star-forming galaxies.
Job description
The successful applicant will have opportunities to lead research in this broad range of topics, and contribute to the scientific foundation of mission development for NASA's Habitable Worlds Observatory (HWO). The research will connect two complementary efforts: (1) using the rich multiwavelength datasets from PHANGS (Physics at High Angular resolution in Nearby GalaxieS), including HST and JWST observations, to investigate star cluster formation and evolution and constrain stellar feedback processes in nearby galaxies; and (2) using representative observing programs to establish how potential HWO capabilities can enable the next generation of star formation and stellar population studies.
Above all, we value: scientific curiosity, initiative, and the ability to bring new ideas to a project, learn new skills, and carry research through to publication, both independently and in collaboration with others.
The position may begin as early as February 2026, and the start date is negotiable. The initial appointment is for two years, with an expected renewal to a 3rd year subject to satisfactory performance and availability of funding.
Requirements
- Ph.D. in Astronomy, Physics, Planetary Science, or a related field by the start of the appointment
- Expertise in reduction and analysis of space-based imaging data, particularly from HST or JWST (desirable)
- Expertise in spectroscopy in the UV, optical, or infrared (desirable)
- Expertise in resolved stellar populations and star clusters (desirable)
- Expertise in the interstellar medium and stellar feedback (desirable)
- Expertise in multiwavelength photometry and stellar population modeling (desirable)
- Expertise in planning astronomical observations and evaluating telescope capabilities (desirable)
- Scientific curiosity, initiative, and ability to bring new ideas
- Ability to learn new skills and carry research through to publication
- Ability to work independently and in collaboration with others
Benefits
- Excellent benefit package
- Competitive salaries
- Postdoc mentoring program
Company overview
The Space Telescope Science Institute (STScI) is a premier astronomical research center established in 1981 and operated for NASA by the Association of Universities for Research in Astronomy (AURA). Located on the Johns Hopkins University campus in Baltimore, Maryland, STScI serves as the science operations center for the Hubble Space Telescope, the science and mission operations center for the James Webb Space Telescope, and the science operations center for the upcoming Nancy Grace Roman Space Telescope. With approximately 850 staff members, including about 200 Ph.D. scientists, the institute manages all aspects of telescope operations from proposal selection and observation scheduling to data processing, calibration, and archiving. STScI operates the Mikulski Archive for Space Telescopes (MAST), which curates data from over 20 astronomical missions, and conducts world-class scientific research across diverse astrophysical domains including exoplanet studies, galaxy evolution, and cosmology. The institute also plays a vital role in public outreach and education, making groundbreaking astronomical discoveries accessible to global audiences through innovative media and educational programs.