Postdoctoral Research Scientist in Time Domain Astrophysics

Columbia University invites applications for a Postdoctoral Research Scientist position in the Columbia Astrophysics Laboratory (CAL), where the successful candidate will join the research group of Professor of Astronomy, Dr. Kishalay De. 

The selected candidate will be expected to be involved in a broad research program on time domain astrophysics spanning supernovae, nuclear transients, stellar eruptions in the Milky Way and nearby galaxies and Galactic variable stars; and will have the opportunity to work on survey programs with ongoing time domain experiments, including the Near Earth Object Wide-field Infrared Survey Explorer (NEOWISE), the Prime-focus Infrared Microlensing Experiment (PRIME), Wide-field Infrared Transient Explorer (WINTER), Palomar Gattini-IR (PGIR), Zwicky Transient Facility (ZTF), as well as early experiments for the upcoming Rubin observatory (Columbia University is a member of the LSST Discovery Alliance) and the Roman Space Telescope. The selected candidate will have access to telescopes at the MDM observatory, and will be encouraged to lead a multi-wavelength follow-up program from X-ray to radio bands, interacting extensively with the Theoretical High Energy Astrophysics (THEA) group at Columbia University and the transient’s group at the Center for Computational Astrophysics. They will be expected to be able to work well independently and cooperatively with a team, and to communicate the results of their research.

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. Kishalay De at kd3038@columbia.edu. with the subject line Postdoctoral Position.

Candidates must have a Ph.D., or equivalent degree in Astronomy, Physics, or a related discipline. Applicants with prior experience in time domain analysis, observational data reduction techniques as well as data-driven modeling of transients and variable stars are highly desirable and are encouraged to apply.

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

Review of applications 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 received by January 03, 2025, will be given full consideration.

All applications must be submitted through Columbia University’s Academic Search and Recruiting (ARS) system by going to the following link:  http://apply.interfolio.com/158223.  Applicants should submit a Cover Letter, Curriculum Vitae (including a list of publications), and Research Statement (no longer than 3 pages).   Additionally, applicants should arrange to have three letters of reference sent directly by the writers.

Columbia University 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.