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Astrophysics Postdoc Jobs (NOW HIRING)

The Pennsylvania State University

POSITION SPECIFICS The Department of Astronomy and Astrophysics at Penn State invites applicants for two Postdoctoral Researcher positions to work with Professor Jimmy DeLaunay and collaborators. The ...

The Pennsylvania State University

The Particle Astrophysics group at Penn State is seeking a postdoctoral researcher to work with Professor Stephanie Wissel on experimental searches for the highest energy neutrinos, multi-messenger ...

Troy University

Postdoctoral Associate

Troy, AL · On-site

Posting Details Position Information Posting Number SF2003P Position Title Postdoctoral Associate ... Minimum Qualifications 1. Doctoral degree in Astronomy/Astronomy/Physics specializing in orbital ...

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How much do astrophysics postdoc jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 8, 2026, the average hourly pay for astrophysics postdoc in the United States is $21.05, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $14.42 and $17.31 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in the Astrophysics Postdoc position, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Astrophysics Postdoc, you need an advanced degree (PhD) in astrophysics or a related field, along with strong analytical, mathematical, and research skills. Experience with programming languages like Python or C++, data analysis tools, and familiarity with astronomical instrumentation are common requirements. Excellent written and verbal communication, collaboration, and problem-solving abilities are key soft skills for effective work within research teams and conference settings. These skills enable impactful scientific contributions, efficient data interpretation, and successful integration into complex research projects.

What is an Astrophysics Postdoc job?

An Astrophysics Postdoc is a temporary research position, typically lasting two to three years, for individuals who have recently completed their PhD in astrophysics or a related field. Postdocs work on specialized research projects, often under the supervision of a senior scientist or as part of a research team. Their responsibilities include conducting original research, publishing papers, attending conferences, and sometimes mentoring students. These positions help researchers gain experience, develop expertise, and prepare for permanent academic or industry roles.

What kinds of research projects and collaborations can an Astrophysics Postdoc expect to be involved in?

Astrophysics Postdocs often work on cutting-edge research projects that can include observational campaigns, theoretical modeling, data analysis from telescopes or space missions, and developing new computational tools. Collaborations are common, both within the host institution and with national or international teams, frequently involving interdisciplinary groups of physicists, data scientists, and engineers. Many postdocs contribute to publishing papers, presenting findings at conferences, and sometimes mentoring graduate or undergraduate students. This environment offers a dynamic blend of independent research and teamwork, fostering both deep expertise and broad professional connections in the astrophysics community.

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Astrophysics Postdoc jobs near you
Infographic showing various Astrophysics Postdoc job openings in the United States as of May 2026, with employment types broken down into 75% Full Time, and 25% Part Time. Highlights an 46% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 53% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $43,777 per year, or $21 per hour.
Post-Doctoral position in Extragalactic Astrophysics (JWST)

Post-Doctoral position in Extragalactic Astrophysics (JWST)

Harvard University

Cambridge, MA • On-site

$67K - $72K/yr

Full-time

Posted 24 days ago

Harvard University rating

8.1

Company rating: 8.1 out of 10

Based on 7 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

131st of 534 rated colleges and universities

Job description

Position
Details
Title
Post-Doctoral position in Extragalactic Astrophysics (JWST)
School
Faculty of Arts and Sciences
Department/Area
Harvard College Observatory
Position Description
The Harvard College Observatory invites applications for one or more postdoctoral positions in extragalactic astrophysics, with a focus on observational studies using the James Webb Space Telescope (JWST).
The successful candidate will work with Prof. Daniel Eisenstein and collaborators on the analysis and interpretation of JWST data, with particular emphasis on deep-field observations. The position provides access to large, high-impact JWST datasets and opportunities to contribute to multiple ongoing programs, as well as to a broader portfolio of datasets through the JWST Advanced Deep Extragalactic Survey (JADES) collaboration.
The postdoctoral researcher will contribute to ongoing JWST programs and collaborative projects, while being strongly encouraged to develop an independent research program. The postdoc is expected to lead and contribute to publications and will have opportunities to take on leadership roles within collaborative projects.
Research topics include, but are not limited to:
  • Galaxy formation and evolution across cosmic time
  • Spectroscopic studies of galaxies and AGN at intermediate to high redshift
  • Analysis of JWST slit and/or slitless spectroscopy datasets and/or JWST imaging datasets
  • Development of methods for large spectroscopic surveys and data products

This is a two-year term appointment from date of hire with the possibility of renewal for a third year contingent upon the availability of funding and performance. The nominal starting date will be September 1, 2026, but an earlier or later start is negotiable.
Basic Qualifications
Applicants should have:
  • A Ph.D. in astronomy, astrophysics, or a related field by the start date
  • Demonstrated experience in extragalactic astrophysics
  • Strong background in observational data analysis, particularly with JWST data.

Additional Qualifications
Special Instructions
To apply, please submit:
  • Cover Letter
  • Curriculum Vitae
  • Research statement (2-3 pages)
  • Three (3) letters of recommendation.

Applications received by May 31, 2026 will receive full consideration.
Contact Information
Daniel Eisenstein
Contact Email
deisenstein@cfa.harvard.edu
Salary Range
$67,600 - $72,500
Pay offered to the selected candidate is dependent on factors such as years of experience, training or qualification, field of scholarship, and accomplishments in the field.
Minimum Number of References Required
3
Maximum Number of References Allowed
3
Keywords

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