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Postdoctoral Associate

Job Number: 25407
Functional Area: Research - Scientific
Department: Chemistry
School Area: Science
Pay Range Minimum: $71,000
Pay Range Maximum: $90,000

Employment Type: Full-Time Temporary
Employment Category: Exempt
Visa Sponsorship Available: Yes
Schedule:
Pay Grade: No Grade

Posting Description

POSTDOCTORAL ASSOCIATE, Chemistry, will lead design and development of an open-source Python-based package for the prediction and analysis of spectroscopic data, primarily rotational spectra and radio astronomical observations. The package will be an overhaul and extension of a first-generation suite of codes. In consultation with stakeholders, the postdoc will synthesize an extensive (existing) collection of science and technical requirements into a development plan and roadmap, then lead those development efforts. The work will be performed in close collaboration with scientific staff at the National Radio Astronomy Observatory (NRAO) to identify synergies with next-generation telescopes (e.g. ALMA WSU and ngVLA) and value-added archival data products. The postdoc will be expected to devote 50% of their effort to this development process during that time, while the remaining 50% is to be used to pursue their own scientific interests. As part of the McGuire group, the postdoc will have access to several state-of-the-art microwave spectrometers, numerous large astronomical datasets, an extensive network of international collaborators, and the opportunity to mentor students and travel to meetings to present their work.

Job Requirements

REQUIRED: PhD in Astronomy/Astrophysics, Computer Science, Physics, Chemistry, or related field; demonstrated expertise in Python and significant software development experience. PREFERRED: Experience with rotational spectroscopy, radio astronomy, radiative transfer calculations, and/or machine learning. These qualifications can be demonstrated through peer-reviewed publications, but it is recognized that publications are not always the best indicator of skills and experience in scientific software development.

Applications will be reviewed starting 28 January 2026 and review will continue until the position is filled. The initial step of the application requires a curriculum vitae, cover letter (2 pages maximum), and names and contact information for three references.

The cover letter should highlight your Python software development experience as well as any familiarity with rotational spectroscopy, radio astronomy, radiative transfer calculations, and/or machine learning. You should also briefly describe your scientific interests, accomplishments to date, and plans for your research during the postdoc, these can include specifying areas of current research in the group that you would be interested in contributing to. Finally, please provide the names and e-mail addresses of three individuals willing to provide a letter of recommendation upon request.

The initial appointment is for one year, with renewal for an additional year available contingent on performance and mutual agreement. Further extensions are possible contingent on funding.

The postdoc will be located at MIT, but will visit NRAO Headquarters in Charlottesville, VA, as part of these design efforts.

Revised 1/12/2026