Postdoctoral Researcher

University of Kansas
United States, Kansas, Lawrence
1450 Jayhawk Boulevard (Show on map)
Sep 11, 2025
Position Overview The Department of Physics and Astronomy at the University of Kansas (KU) seeks to fill a postdoctoral researcher position in measurements of transiting planet occurrence rates, working in Professor Ian Crossfield's KU ExoLab group. STARTING DATE: November 15, 2025 (or later; negotiable). LENGTH OF APPOINTMENT: Initial appointment is for two years with the possibility of renewal annually for subsequent years subject to review and continued grant funding. GENERAL DUTIES: Research in occurrence rates of transiting planets. The successful candidate will contribute in several aspects of Prof. Crossfield's ExoLab research program: in particular, with a focus on the measurement of eta-Earth (the occurrence rate of rocky planets in or near their stars' habitable zones). Of particular interest are those candidates motivated to work on archival or new data from Kepler, TESS, Roman, PLATO, and/or other novel facilities. Job Description Conduct research in transiting planet detection and characterization, in particular occurrence rates of transiting planets. This work will involve some or all of: reanalysis of Kepler photometry and supporting data of systems relevant for eta-Earth measurements; calculation of eta-Earth and related occurrence rates of relevant planets; and simulations of upcoming or novel facility observations that could improve the current state of occurrence rate measurements. This also entails participation in relevant facets of the group's research endeavors ranging from data analysis, software development, publication preparation, grant proposal preparation, editorial work, presentation of results, outreach and career development, and travel as required for work duties. Specific Job Duties (percentage of time): 90% - Analysis of data and/or calculation of new simulated data, and related work. Documentation, presentation and publication of research results. 10% - Assist in guiding the group's graduate and undergraduate students, and with outreach and Broader Impact efforts. Required Qualifications Evaluation of the required qualification and preferred qualification will be made through (1) records of accomplishments entered in CV, (2) description of research and education experience provided in the application materials, (3) references, and (4) publications as appropriate. A Ph.D. in physics, astronomy, astrophysics, or a related field by date of appointment Experience with exoplanetary astrophysics NOTE: To be appointed at the Postdoctoral Researcher title, it is necessary to have the PhD in hand. Appointments made without a diploma or certified transcript indicating an earned doctorate are conditional hires and are appointed on an acting basis not to exceed 6 months. This position requires a formal degree in the cited discipline area(s) to ensure that candidates have advanced knowledge, analytical skills and professional competencies necessary to perform the duties of the position. The level of degree is commonly recognized as the standard qualification for similar roles in the public and private sector, ensuring that the university remains competitive with industry aligned practices, enhances collaboration with external partners, and supports the delivery of services and programs that meet professional and market-driven expectations. Preferred Qualifications Previous experience and ability in reduction & analysis of exoplanetary data products, as evidenced by application materials. Previous experience and ability with conducting, interpreting, and/or successfully simulating occurrence rate observations, as evidenced by application materials. Previous experience in experimental techniques and software relevant to astrophysical observations, as evidenced by application materials. Previous experience participating in and/or leadership of, professional service activities, public outreach, and/or volunteer work, as evidenced by application materials. Previous work experience that required excellent communication skills, as evidenced by application materials. Additional Candidate Instructions A complete application consists of: a cover letter, a description of research expertise and interests (as pertaining to the projects described above), a curriculum vitae, names and email addresses of at least two references Applications received before Wednesday October 1, 2025 will receive full consideration; review will continue until the position is filled. Contact Information to Applicants Ian Crossfield ianc@ku.edu Advertised Salary Range $59,000-$70,000 Application Review Begins Wednesday October 1, 2025 Anticipated Start Date Saturday November 15, 2025