[ES_JOBS_NET] Postdoctoral Associate - Researcher in Exoplanet Sciences, Rutgers University

[Christine Wiedinmyer]

https://jobs.rutgers.edu/postings/277095

Position Details
Position Information

Recruitment/Posting Title Postdoctoral Associate - Researcher in Exoplanet
Sciences
Department Physics & Astronomy
Salary Details minimum salary per Postdoc Union Contract - $63,968
Offer Information
The final salary offer may be determined by several factors, including, but
not limited to, the candidate’s qualifications, experience, and expertise,
and availability of department or grant funds to support the position. We
also take into consideration market benchmarks, if and when appropriate,
and internal equity to ensure fair compensation relative to the
university’s broader compensation structure. We are committed to offering
competitive and flexible compensation packages to attract and retain top
talent.
Benefits
Rutgers offers a comprehensive benefits package to eligible employees,
based on position, which includes:

   - 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 discounts programs



For detailed information on benefits and eligibility, please visit:
*http://uhr.rutgers.edu/benefits/benefits-overview*
<http://uhr.rutgers.edu/benefits/benefits-overview>.
Posting Summary
The Department of Physics and Astronomy at Rutgers University invites
applications for a postdoctoral research position to collaborate with Prof.
Renyu Hu on the characterization of small exoplanets in the era of James
Webb Space Telescope (JWST). The position will begin on or after September
1, 2026.

The successful candidate will work at the forefront of exoplanet research
and will have the opportunities to extract scientific results from multiple
JWST programs, develop and apply advanced atmospheric and surface models,
and integrate observational and theoretical approaches to study the
evolution and climates of small exoplanets. Specific research activities
may include one or more of the following: (1) data reduction and analysis,
including the development of new techniques and customized pipelines; (2)
planet characterization combining space-based observations with
ground-based, high-resolution spectroscopy; (3) modeling of exoplanet
atmospheres, including radiative transfer and photochemistry across diverse
planetary scenarios; and (4) simulations of the formation and evolution of
small exoplanets, including surface and geological processes. The
postdoctoral researcher may focus on one or more of these areas. The
application and development of AI/ML methods to enhance and accelerate
research is also encouraged.

The postdoc will be encouraged and supported in pursuing independent
research and professional development. The postdoc will also be supported
in developing new science cases for future observations. The integration of
modeling and observations provides strong potential for impactful and
transformative discoveries.

The Department of Physics and Astronomy is located in Piscataway, NJ, on
the flagship campus of Rutgers, the State University of New Jersey. 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 position is funded through a combination of the Downsbrough endowment
at Rutgers and external research grants. The initial appointment is for two
years, with the possibility of renewal, contingent on mutual agreement and
the availability of funding. Salary will be competitive and commensurate
with experience.

Excellence in research, with observational and/or theoretical experience
relevant to one or more of the areas listed above, will be the primary
criterion for consideration. Questions about this position may be directed
to Prof. Renyu Hu at rh1071 at physics.rutgers.edu.
Required Documents:

1. CV including a list of publications
2. Statement of research experience, interests, and professional
development plans
3. Contact information for three professional references

Applications received by July 31, 2026, will receive full consideration.
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