Postdoctoral Research Associate I, SORAL

Company:

The University of Arizona

Job Location:

Tucson, 85724

Category:

Astronomy and Astrophysics

Type:

Full-Time

Posting Number: req25563

Department: Steward Observatory

Location: Tucson Campus

Address: Tucson, AZ USA

Position Highlights

The University of Arizona (UA) Department of Astronomy and Steward Observatory (SO) are excited to invite applications for Postdoctoral Research Associates interested in research related to the development of spacecraft, telescopes, and gossamer optical systems for exploration of the solar system and beyond. As a Postdoctoral Research Associate, you will have the opportunity to work closely with Prof. Christopher K. Walker. You will be encouraged to integrate into the activities of the Steward Observatory Radio Astronomy Laboratory (SORAL) and to support an equitable scholarly environment in research, mentoring, and service.

Throughout your postdoctoral journey with us, you will be encouraged to conduct your own independent research, as time permits, and will be able to apply for time on any Steward facility directly as a PI. You will be expected to lead high-profile, independent research in fields of your choosing, as well as collaborate with SO faculty and scholars in the Department of Astronomy.

UA/SO offers a world-class research environment in space science and astrophysics, with strong interdisciplinary programs across the Departments of Astronomy, Physics, Optical Sciences, Aerospace & Mechanical Engineering, Electrical & Computer Engineering, and Planetary Sciences. We provide direct access to various world-class observational and computational facilities for ground-based radio and optical observing.

Start dates range from April 15, 2026, to June 1, 2026.

Outstanding U of A benefits include health, dental, vision, and life insurance; paid vacation, sick leave, and holidays; U of A/ASU/NAU tuition reduction for the employee and qualified family members; access to U of A recreation and cultural activities; and more!

The University of Arizona has been recognized for our innovative work-life programs. For more information about working at the University of Arizona and relocations services, please click here.

Duties & Responsibilities

• Develop and lead an independent research agenda centered on spacecraft, telescopes, and gossamer optical; disseminate work through publications and presentations; and contribute to public-engagement opportunities.
• Develop and implement research initiatives, collaborations, publications, and/or events (e.g., talks, workshops, visitor programs, etc.), as needed and relevant to research agendas.
• Collaborate with faculty and scholars in support of an inclusive academic environment (including teaching, organizing collaborative meetings, supervising and mentoring graduate and undergraduate students).
• Additional duties as assigned.

Minimum Qualifications

• Must have completed all the requirements for a Ph.D. in Aerospace Engineering, Astronomy, Physics, Astrophysics, or a related science at the time of hire.

Preferred Qualifications

• Research experience relevant to one or more of the following scientific areas: computer modelling, fabrication, and testing of flight hardware, as well as project management.

FLSA: Exempt

Full Time/Part Time: Full Time

Number of Hours Worked per Week: 40

Job FTE: 1.0

Work Calendar: Fiscal

Job Category: Research

Benefits Eligible: Yes - Full Benefits

Rate of Pay: NIH salary guidelines, Depends on Experience

Compensation Type: salary at 1.0 full-time equivalency (FTE)

Type of criminal background check required: Name-based criminal background check (non-security sensitive)

Number of Vacancies: 1

Contact Information for Candidates

Christopher K. Walker, Ph.D.
cwalker@arizona.edu

Open Until Filled: Yes

Documents Needed to Apply: Curriculum Vitae (CV), Cover Letter, and Two Additional Documents

Special Instructions to Applicant

Along with your application, cover letter, and CV, please attach:

• Additional Document 1: Research Statement (limit of five (5) pages)
• Additional Document 2: List of Publications