Postdoctoral Associate - Astrophysics; Rutgers-CCA Flatiron Research Fellow

Position Details

Title: Postdoctoral Associate – Astrophysics (Rutgers-CCA Flatiron Research Fellow)

Department: Physics & Astronomy

Employment Status: Full Time

Posting Number: 25FA1006

Salary: Minimum salary per Postdoc Union Contract – $63,968. Final salary offer may vary based on qualifications, experience, and funding.

• Medical, prescription drug, and dental coverage
• Paid vacation, holidays, and various leave programs
• Competitive retirement benefits, including defined contribution plans and voluntary tax-deferred savings options
• Employee and dependent educational benefits
• Life insurance coverage
• Employee discount programs

For detailed information on benefits and eligibility, visit (Use the "Apply for this Job" box below)..

The position will begin on or after July 1, 2026, and is jointly offered with the Center for Computational Astrophysics (CCA) at the Simons Foundation Flatiron Institute in New York City. The successful applicant will work at the galaxy‑interstellar medium interface under the guidance of Professor Blakesley Burkhart, collaborating with CCA and Rutgers science staff to contribute to a research program on star formation, galaxy formation, the interstellar medium, and fluid dynamics.

Key responsibilities include:

• Working on a subset of the mentioned topics, with proficiency in handling large observational and numerical data sets, machine learning, and running/analyzing numerical simulations.
• Developing and leading independent research projects within this framework.
• Participating in observational work, mentoring graduate students, attending journal clubs, coffee meetings, and colloquia at CCA and Rutgers.
• Traveling to conferences and engaging in professional development activities, with associated funds provided.

The initial appointment will be for two years at Rutgers University, followed by a third‑year appointment as a Flatiron Research Fellow re is potential for an additional one‑year extension at CCA contingent on performance.

The ideal candidate will possess:

• A Ph.D. in astronomy or physics by the start date.
• Experience and expertise in star formation, galaxy formation, the interstellar medium, and fluid dynamics.
• Proficiency with large data sets, machine learning techniques, and numerical simulations.
• Ability to develop and lead independent research projects.

It is university policy to provide equal employment opportunity to all its employees and applicants for employment regardless of their race, creed, color, national origin, age, ancestry, nationality, marital or domestic partnership or civil union status, sex, pregnancy, gender identity or expression, disability status, liability for military service, protected veteran status, affectional or sexual orientation, atypical cellular or blood trait, genetic information (including the refusal to submit to genetic testing), or any other category protected by law.

As an institution, we encourage all qualified applicants to apply. For additional information please see the Non-Discrimination Statement at the following web address: -statement