Post-Doctoral Position in Extragalactic Astrophysics (JWST)

Post-Doctoral Position in Extragalactic Astrophysics (JWST)

Company:
Harvard University

Job Location:
Cambridge, 02138

Category:
Astronomy and Astrophysics

Type:
Full-Time

School: Faculty of Arts and Sciences

Department/Area: Harvard College Observatory

Position Description

The Harvard College Observatory invites applications for one or more postdoctoral positions in extragalactic astrophysics, with a focus on observational studies using the James Webb Space Telescope (JWST).

The successful candidate will work with Prof. Daniel Eisenstein and collaborators on the analysis and interpretation of JWST data, with particular emphasis on deep-field observations. The position provides access to large, high-impact JWST datasets and opportunities to contribute to multiple ongoing programs, as well as to a broader portfolio of datasets through the JWST Advanced Deep Extragalactic Survey (JADES) collaboration.

The postdoctoral researcher will contribute to ongoing JWST programs and collaborative projects, while being strongly encouraged to develop an independent research program. The postdoc is expected to lead and contribute to publications and will have opportunities to take on leadership roles within collaborative projects.

Research topics include, but are not limited to:

• Galaxy formation and evolution across cosmic time
• Spectroscopic studies of galaxies and AGN at intermediate to high redshift
• Analysis of JWST slit and/or slitless spectroscopy datasets and/or JWST imaging datasets
• Development of methods for large spectroscopic surveys and data products

This is a two-year term appointment from date of hire with the possibility of renewal for a third year contingent upon the availability of funding and performance. The nominal starting date will be September 1, 2026, but an earlier or later start is negotiable.

Basic Qualifications

Applicants should have:

• A Ph.D. in astronomy, astrophysics, or a related field by the start date
• Demonstrated experience in extragalactic astrophysics
• Strong background in observational data analysis, particularly with JWST data.

Special Instructions

To apply, please submit:

• Cover Letter
• Curriculum Vitae
• Research statement (2-3 pages)
• Three (3) letters of recommendation.

Applications received by May 31, 2026 will receive full consideration.

Contact Information

Daniel Eisenstein

Contact Email: deisenstein@cfa.harvard.edu

Salary Range

$67,600 - $72,500
Pay offered to the selected candidate is dependent on factors such as years of experience, training or qualification, field of scholarship, and accomplishments in the field.

Minimum Number of References Required: 3

Maximum Number of References Allowed: 3