Postdoctoral Associate-Condensed Matter Theory

Position Description

The Department of Physics and Astronomy at Rutgers University invites applications for a Postdoctoral Researcher position to work with Professor Renyu Hu in exoplanet science. The appointment is expected to begin on or after July 1, 2027.

The successful candidate will join a vibrant and rapidly growing research program at the forefront of exoplanet discovery and characterization. The position offers opportunities to lead observational and theoretical investigations aimed at understanding the atmospheres, climates, evolution, and habitability of exoplanets, particularly small planets orbiting nearby stars.

Research activities may include:
· Leading and participating in observations with the James Webb Space Telescope (JWST) and major ground-based observatories, including the development of novel data analysis techniques
· Developing and applying innovative atmospheric and surface models, including climate and photochemical processes
· Integrating observational and theoretical approaches to investigate the formation, evolution, and environments of small exoplanets
· Developing and applying artificial intelligence and machine learning methods to accelerate exoplanet discovery and characterization
· Performing science analyses that inform future flagship observatories, including the Habitable Worlds Observatory (HWO)

The successful candidate will have access to a broad suite of modeling tools and observing resources. Through the Rutgers astrophysics program, opportunities are available to pursue observations with the Southern African Large Telescope (SALT), one of the largest optical telescopes in the Southern Hemisphere. The combination of premier observational facilities and advanced theoretical frameworks provides an exceptional environment for impactful and transformative research.

The postdoctoral researcher will be encouraged and supported in developing scientific independence, pursuing professional development opportunities, and taking leadership roles in proposal development, scientific collaborations, and observational and theoretical research projects.

Research Environment

The Department of Physics and Astronomy is located in Piscataway, New Jersey, on Rutgers University’s flagship campus. The campus is approximately 45 minutes from New York City, and the area features several leading astrophysics departments and institutes, facilitating rich intellectual exchange and collaborations. The Rutgers exoplanet research group actively utilizes JWST, maintains preferred access to SALT, and plays a significant role in developing the scientific foundation for future exoplanet missions, including HWO.

Terms of Appointment
The position is supported through a combination of the Downsbrough Endowment and externally funded research grants. The initial appointment is for two years, with the possibility of renewal contingent upon mutual agreement and the availability of funding.
Salary will be competitive and commensurate with qualifications and experience.

Affirmative Action/Equal Employment Opportunity Statement:

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 value diversity of background and opinion, and prohibit discrimination or harassment on the basis of any legally protected class in the areas of hiring, recruitment, promotion, transfer, demotion, training, compensation, pay, fringe benefits, layoff, termination or any other terms and conditions of employment. For additional information please see the Non-Discrimination Statement at the following web address: https://uhr.rutgers.edu/non-discrimination-statement