Postdoctoral Associate - Astrophysics

Rutgers University

life insurance

United States, New Jersey, New Brunswick

Oct 21, 2025

Position Details

Position Information

Recruitment/Posting Title	Postdoctoral Associate - Astrophysics
Department	SAS - 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.
Posting Summary	The Rutgers University Department of Physics and Astronomy invites applications for a postdoctoral research position starting on, or after, 7/01/2026. The position is to be offered jointly with the Center for Computational Astrophysics ( CCA) at the Simons Foundation Flatiron Institute in New York City. The successful applicant will work at the galaxy-interstellar medium interface under the guidance of Professor Blakesley Burkhart, in collaboration with other members of the CCA and Rutgers science staff, and contribute to a research program on star formation, galaxy formation, the interstellar medium, and fluid dynamics. The successful candidate will be expected to work on all or a subset of the above topics, be proficient in working with large data-sets (observational or numerical), machine learning, and running/analyzing numerical simulations. The initial appointment will be for two years at Rutgers University followed by a third year appointment held at CCA as a Flatiron Research Fellow. There is a possibility of an additional year's extension at CCA, contingent on performance. The successful candidate will benefit from the rich scientific atmospheres at Rutgers and CCA. Weekly visits between the scientific communities at Rutgers and CCA are highly encouraged. The postdoc will have opportunities to participate in observational work, help mentor graduate students, attend journal clubs/coffee meetings/colloquia at CCA and Rutgers. Funds for conference travel and professional development will be provided.
Position Status	Full Time
Posting Number	25FA1006
Posting Open Date
Posting Close Date

Qualifications

Minimum Education and Experience	Applicants must have a Ph.D. in astronomy or physics by the start date.
Certifications/Licenses
Required Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities	The successful applicant will contribute to a research program on star formation, galaxy formation, the interstellar medium and fluid dynamics. The successful candidate will be expected to work on the above topics, explore new opportunities on nearby galaxies with large data-sets, and develop and lead their own projects within this framework.
Preferred Qualifications
Equipment Utilized
Physical Demands and Work Environment
Overview
Statement

Posting Details

Special Instructions to Applicants
Quick Link to Posting	https://jobs.rutgers.edu/postings/261213
Campus	Rutgers University-New Brunswick
Home Location Campus	Busch (RU-New Brunswick)
City	Piscataway
State	NJ
Location Details

Pre-employment Screenings

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Immunization Requirements

Under Policy 100.3.1 Immunization Policy for Covered Individuals, if employment will commence during Flu Season, Rutgers University may require certain prospective employees to provide proof that they are vaccinated against Seasonal Influenza for the current Flu Season, unless the University has granted the individual a medical or religious exemption. Additional infection control and safety policies may apply. Prospective employees should speak with their hiring manager to determine which policies apply to the role or position for which they are applying. Failure to provide proof of vaccination for any required vaccines or obtain a medical or religious exemption from the University will result in rescission of a candidate's offer of employment or disciplinary action up to and including termination.

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