"Post-Doctoral Associate (Scarlata)"

About the Job

We seek a postdoctoral researcher to support infrastructure for the Nancy Grace Roman Space Telescope’s Galaxy Redshift Survey (GRS) team. The appointment will focus on simulations and analysis that underpin the survey: end-to-end grism simulations and realistic mock catalogs; modeling and optimization of the observing program; studies to model and mitigate observational systematics; and delivery of high-level products. These efforts are intended to enable robust BAO and RSD measurements from Roman GRS data and to provide value-added catalogs and documentation for community use.

The research associate will be supervised by Claudia Scarlata, faculty member in Physics and Astronomy, and member of the GRS-PIT. The successful applicant would work closely with PIT team members at IPAC (Caltech). Additionally, the research associate would be expected to work with and directly mentor graduate students. The position is grant-funded for two years with the possibility of continued funding if further grants are successful.

50% - Support work with Roman simulations and preparation of value-added catalogs and documentation.

30% - Astrophysics Research: carry out a research program related to Roman. Communicate results via academic publication in appropriate journals. Mentor graduate and undergraduate students who are tasked with developing, implementing and analyzing some aspects of the program.

20% - Communication, dissemination, service and professional development: Take the initiative to keep all project stakeholders informed of progress or concerns. Assist the wider grant effort by participating in PIT team by contributing to key service tasks such as general project review, and participation in relevant working groups. Take a leadership role in wider PIT team meetings and discussions on strategy and development. Represent the PIT team at meetings and conferences as required. Contribute as appropriate to project reports to granting agency.

Other duties of a similar scope as assigned.

H-1B sponsorship may be provided to those who currently hold a valid visa and are present in the United States. Updated on October 28, 2025.

Qualifications

Required:

Applicant must hold a Ph.D. in a relevant subject (e.g. Physics or Astronomy). It is essential that the applicant have demonstrated experience with a set of tools appropriate for working with large-scale data science including application of machine learning. In addition, applicants must have demonstrated leadership experience in organizing or coordinating groups towards a common objective (e.g., run a working group, coordinated a journal club, organized regular coding sprints or workshops). A strong publication record in relevant academic field(s) is also required as is the ability to mentor students and work in a diverse, distributed team in an interdisciplinary manner with an ability to direct one’s own research.

Preferred:

Preference will be given to applicants who have demonstrated familiarity with machine learning in the context of Astrophysical research; a demonstrated interest in citizen science; the ability to manage multiple projects; excellent organizational, presentation and writing skills; and demonstrated self-motivation and creativity. While based in Minneapolis, the successful applicant will be expected to travel for collaboration purposes to Pasadena.

About the Department

School of Physics and Astronomy: https://cse.umn.edu/physics

Pay and Benefits

Pay Range: $65,000 - $70,000; depending on education/qualifications/experience

Please visit the Benefits for Postdoctoral Candidates website for more information regarding benefit eligibility.

• Competitive wages, paid holidays, and generous time off
• Continuous learning opportunities through professional training
• Medical, dental, and pharmacy plans
• Healthcare and dependent care flexible spending accounts
• University HSA contributions
• Disability and life insurance
• Employee wellbeing program
• Financial counseling services
• Employee Assistance Program with eight sessions of counseling at no cost

How To Apply

Applications must be submitted online. To be considered for this position, please click the Apply button and follow the instructions. You will have the opportunity to complete an online application for the position and attach a cover letter and resume.

Additional documents may be attached after application by accessing your "My Job Applications" page and uploading documents in the "My Cover Letters and Attachments" section.

Please include the following in your application materials: Cover letter, Curriculum vitae, Brief description of research interests (one to two pages), Reference list with contact information

This position will remain open until filled.

To request an accommodation during the application process, please e-mail employ@umn.edu or call (612) 624-8647.

Diversity

The University recognizes and values the importance of diversity and inclusion in enriching the employment experience of its employees and in supporting the academic mission. The University is committed to attracting and retaining employees with varying identities and backgrounds.

The University of Minnesota provides equal access to and opportunity in its programs, facilities, and employment without regard to race, color, creed, religion, national origin, gender, age, marital status, disability, public assistance status, veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity, or gender expression. To learn more about diversity at the U: http://diversity.umn.edu

Employment Requirements

Any offer of employment is contingent upon the successful completion of a background check. Our presumption is that prospective employees are eligible to work here. Criminal convictions do not automatically disqualify finalists from employment.