Assistant Research Professor, Steward Observatory; Career-Track

Assistant Research Professor, Steward Observatory (Career-Track) Position Highlights

Steward Observatory seeks to fill a Research Professor position to support exoplanet science within the Center for Astronomical Adaptive Optics (CAAO). This faculty member will bridge the gap between science and instrumentation, informing, commissioning, and analyzing exoplanet direct imaging instruments and datasets. The position will support new and in-progress space instruments for coronagraphy and high-resolution astronomy while advancing the technology readiness of a variety of approaches through simulation, analysis, reduction, and publication.

Recently selected to build the Lazuli instruments and leading the GMagAO-X instrument, Steward Observatory provides direct access to various world-class facilities for ground-based radio and optical observing. Among these are the Large Binocular Telescope and 6.5m aperture telescopes located in both the Northern and Southern Hemispheres. Applicants will be eligible to submit their own science proposals and lead independent research programs.

As a key member of the research team, the successful candidate will play an active role in defining and implementing science priorities, mentoring students and postdocs, and developing cutting-edge tools for high-contrast imaging.

This career-track appointment is not eligible for tenure. This position may be eligible for a hybrid work assignment in conversation with the supervisor.

Visa sponsorship is not available for this position.

• Outstanding U of A benefits include health, dental, and vision insurance plans; life insurance and disability programs; paid vacation, 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 .

• Support high-contrast imaging projects within the Center for Astronomical Adaptive Optics (CAAO).
• Mentor students in best practices for exoplanet imaging and astronomical data reduction.
• Build and contribute to target selection and data reduction tools.
• Organize exoplanet science journal clubs and symposia within the CAAO.

• Proven ability to collaborate across disciplines.

• PhD in astronomy, optics, physics, engineering, or a related field.
• Minimum of 5 years of experience in high-contrast imaging or coronagraphy.

• Experience in exoplanet atmosphere modeling.
• Experience in team management in high-stress environments.
• Experience with modern software development practices and documentation, including Python and Git.
• Experience managing priorities across teams.
• Experience commissioning an astronomical instrument.
• Experience mentoring students.

• Location:
  
  Tucson Campus
• Address:
  Tucson, AZ USA
• Rank:
  Professor
• Tenure Information:
  Career-Track (CT)
• 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 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: 9/14/2026

Ewan Douglas Ph.D.
Associate Professor, Astronomy
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