Assistant Professor, Astronomy; T​/TE

Position

Assistant Professor, Astronomy (T/TE)

The Department of Astronomy and Steward Observatory (DA/SO) at the University of Arizona invites applications for a tenure-track faculty position, with an anticipated start date of August 2026. This position will also be granted the additional title of Assistant Astronomer (Chapter
4). We are seeking candidates with research expertise in cosmology and machine learning/data analysis. We are interested in candidates with expertise in using ML to improve the modeling and interpretation of cosmic structure evolution and/or the physics of the early universe. Candidates who can connect their expertise in cosmology/ML to existing and future large datasets (e.g. from DESI, LSST, Euclid, Roman, SPHEREx, Simons Observatory, etc.)

are especially encouraged to apply.

The University of Arizona offers a world-class research environment in astrophysics, with strong interdisciplinary programs across the Departments of Astronomy, Physics, Planetary Sciences, the James Wyant College of Optical Sciences, the UA Data Science Institute, and collaborations with NSF's NOIRLab. Our faculty have guaranteed access to local HPC resources ((Use the "Apply for this Job" box below).). We provide mentoring to successfully apply for access to national HPC systems.

Additional information about DA/SO, its personnel, and all our research facilities and observatories is available on the web page:
Astronomy & Steward Observatory.

Outstanding U of A benefits include health, dental, and vision insurance plans; life insurance and disability programs; sick leave and holidays; U of A/ASU/NAU tuition reduction for the employee and qualified family members; retirement plans; 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 .

• This position is expected to maintain an active research program, to participate fully and with distinction in both undergraduate and graduate education, and to carry out their share of advising duties and committee assignments.
• See "position highlights" summary.

• Ph.D. in Astronomy, Physics, Planetary Science, or related fields

• Assistant Professor

• Tenure Track (T/TE)

• FLSA:
  Exempt
• Full Time/Part Time:
  Full Time
• Number of Hours Worked per Week: 40
• Job FTE: 1.0
• Work Calendar:
  Academic
• Job Category:
  Faculty
• Benefits Eligible:
  Yes - Full Benefits

• Rate of Pay: DOE
• 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
• Target Hire Date: 3/6/2026
• Open Date: 11/24/2025
• Open Until Filled:
  Yes

• Documents Needed to Apply:
  Curriculum Vitae (CV) and Cover Letter
• Special Instructions to Applicant:
  To apply, complete the following steps: click Apply Now and complete the online UArizona application; upload CV and Cover Letter, Research Statement (limit: 5 pages), and Teaching Statement (limit: 1 page) as ONE PDF FILE to the box portal; include your name in the file titles; then have three references upload letters of recommendation to the same portal, including your name in the file title.

Kelly Merrill
kmerrill

Notice of Availability of the Annual Security and Fire Safety Report:
In compliance with Clery Act, the University of Arizona releases an Annual Security Report for each campus. Paper copies of the reports can be obtained by contacting the University Compliance Office at cleryact.