Staff Associate,Postdoctoral Researcher in Star Formation and Magnetic Fields Job Worcester area,Massachusetts USA,Research/Development

Staff Associate, Postdoctoral Researcher in Star Formation and Magnetic Fields

Official

Title:

Staff Associate, Postdoctoral Researcher in Star Formation and Magnetic Fields
Supervision Received: Assistant Professor (Ian Stephens) and/or Dean for the School of Science, Technology & Health
General Statement of Duties: Conduct research in collaboration with Dr. Ian Stephens at Worcester State University (WSU) using data from the Stratospheric Observatory for Infrared Astronomy (SOFIA). Build a unified dataset of all HAWC+ polarization data for star-forming regions and analyze this data to understand the magnetic fields of specific regions in the Gould Belt. Funding is available for two years, with a possible third year if additional funding is secured.

Collaborative opportunities include work at the Center for Astrophysics | Harvard & Smithsonian. Preferred start date September.

Responsibilities (Essential)

Conduct research at Worcester State University.

Compare observations with models to interpret the role of magnetic fields in forming stars within a galaxy's magnetized spiral potential.

Maintain regular communication with WSU supervisor(s).

Perform other duties as assigned, consistent with the research project.

Demonstrate civility and professional, customer‑service oriented behavior, worthy of emulation by other staff and students.

Responsible for contributing to the WSU Strategic Plan through research activities.

Responsible for contributing to Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action objectives through research activities.

Requirements

Required Qualifications:

Ph.D. in astronomy, astrophysics, or a related field, conferred by date of appointment.
Ability to successfully conduct research and analyze data.
Ability to travel to each work site, as necessary.
Ability to successfully pass a thorough background check and CORI check.
Ability to perform the essential functions of the position with or without reasonable accommodation.

Preferred Qualifications:

Research experience in star formation.
Research experience in polarimetry.

Additional Information

This is a full‑time, grant‑funded, exempt, professional non‑union position. Annual salary $65,000, commensurate with relevant experience and education. Funding for this position is available for two years, with a third year possible if additional funding is secured. Vaccination against COVID‑19 is strongly recommended prior to employment. Benefits include:

A choice of 8 different pre‑taxed health insurance plan options.
A choice of pension or 401(a), and supplemental plan retirement options.
Life insurance up to 8x the annual salary.
Long‑term disability coverage.
Dental insurance.
20 vacation days accrued per year.
15 sick days accrued per year.
5 personal days per year.
Paid holidays.
Tuition remission for self, spouse, and dependent children.
And more.

We are an equal opportunity/Affirmative Action Employer. M/F/D/V. Members of traditionally underrepresented groups are strongly encouraged to apply.

#J-18808-Ljbffr