Postdoctoral Position in Experimental Plasma Physics for Solar Physics

Columbia University invites applications for a Postdoctoral Research Scientist position in the Columbia Astrophysics Laboratory (CAL), where the successful candidate will join the group of Drs. Michael Hahn and Daniel Wolf Savin. The objective of this project is to deepen our understanding of MHD waves in plasma similar to the solar corona; including properties such as damping, reflection, phase mixing, and nonlinear processes. The experimental work will be carried out using the Large Plasma Device at the University of California Los Angeles (UCLA). The position is based at Columbia and will involve travel several times per year to UCLA to perform experiments. The appointment will be initially for one year with the possibility of renewal for up to two additional years, contingent upon the availability of funds and mutual satisfaction. Questions regarding this position can be addressed to Dr. Michael Hahn at mhahn@astro.columbia.edu.

Candidates must have a Ph.D. or equivalent degree in Physics, Applied Physics, Plasma Physics, Solar Physics, or a related discipline. The successful candidate will have a strong background in laboratory plasma physics or solar physics, a proven research ability, and evidence of future research potential.  The candidate is expected to be able to work well independently and cooperatively with a team and to communicate the results of his/her research both orally and in writing. 

The salary of the finalist selected for this role will be set based on a variety of factors, including but not limited to departmental budgets, qualifications, experience, education, licenses, specialty, and training. The hiring range represents the University’s good faith and reasonable estimate of the range of possible compensation at the time of posting. 

Benefits included are those associated with benefits for Officers of Research at Columbia University. For detailed information, you can go to https://humanresources.columbia.edu/benefits

Applicants should submit a Cover Letter, Curriculum Vitae (including a list of publications), and Research Statement (no longer than 3 pages), with the subject line “Postdoctoral Application”. Additionally, applicants should arrange to have three letters of reference sent directly by the writers to Dr. Hahn at mhahn@astro.columbia.edu, with the subject line being the name of the applicant.  

Screening of applicants will begin immediately and will continue until the position is filled. Applications will only be considered after all of the material has been received.  Application deadline is January 17, 2025.

Columbia is an Equal Opportunity Employer/Disability/Veteran Employer.  CAL values a diverse workforce and culture of inclusion, which are keys to attracting and engaging the brightest minds to further our record of scientific excellence and groundbreaking innovations.