Postdoc Position in Physical Sciences

University of California Santa Barbara

Job #: JPF02906

Department: Physics / College of Letters & Science - Mathematical, Life, and Physical Sciences / UC Santa Barbara

Location: Santa Barbara, CA

Percent Time: 100%

Salary Range: $66,737 - $80,034 (full-time estimate)

Anticipated Start: Negotiable, ideally by summer 2025 or fall 2025

Position Duration: Initial appointment for two years, with expectation of renewal for a third year contingent upon satisfactory performance

Position Overview

The Physics Department at the University of California, Santa Barbara invites applications for 1-2 postdoctoral research positions in Prof. Brendan Bowler’s research group. The research will focus on observational studies broadly related to exoplanet discovery, formation, and characterization. Specific topics include:

• Astrometry of planets with Gaia
• High-contrast imaging with the James Webb Space Telescope
• Variability monitoring of substellar companions
• Stellar obliquities
• Observations of circumplanetary disks

Applicants with experience in any of these or related research areas are encouraged to apply.

Successful candidates will have access to facilities through University of California Observatories, including Keck Observatory and Lick Observatory, which host instruments for high-contrast adaptive optics imaging, high-dispersion spectroscopy, and precision radial velocities. Opportunities to advise undergraduate or graduate students are also available.

Candidates are expected to take on new projects, work independently, learn new skills, and contribute positively to departmental culture.

The department encourages applicants who can contribute to diversity and excellence through research, teaching, and service.

Qualifications

Basic Qualifications (required at time of application):

• Applicants must have completed all requirements for a Ph.D. (or equivalent), except the dissertation.
• Ph.D. expected in Physics, Astronomy, or closely related field.

Additional Qualifications (required at time of start):

• Candidate must have received their Ph.D. in Physics, Astronomy, or closely related field by the start of the appointment.

Application Requirements

Document Requirements:

• Curriculum Vitae: Include a list of publications at the end of your CV
• Statement of Research: Include current and future research interests

Reference Requirements:

• 3 letters of reference required
• Enter the contact information for references (name, email, phone number) and trigger solicitation for letters

Application Contact: erickajames@ucsb.edu