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An Astrophysics Research job involves studying celestial objects, space phenomena, and the fundamental laws of the universe using theoretical models, observations, and simulations. Researchers in this field work in academia, government agencies, or private institutions, contributing to our understanding of topics like black holes, dark matter, and cosmic evolution. They analyze data from telescopes and satellites, develop computational models, and publish findings in scientific journals. Many also collaborate with international teams and may be involved in teaching or mentoring students.

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Professionals in Astrophysics Research often encounter challenges such as handling large and complex datasets, troubleshooting technical issues with observational equipment, and staying current with rapidly evolving scientific literature. Projects can take years to bear fruit, requiring persistence and adaptability as research directions shift or unexpected results arise. Collaboration with global teams and adhering to proposal deadlines for funding can also be demanding. However, overcoming these challenges is a rewarding part of the role, often leading to significant scientific discoveries and career growth.

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Infographic showing various Astrophysics Research job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% Internship, 1% As Needed, 84% Full Time, 11% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 84% Physical, 4% Hybrid, and 12% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $73,741 per year, or $35.5 per hour.

Postdoctoral Researcher in Time Domain Astrophysics

Villanova University

Villanova, PA • On-site

Full-time

Re-posted 5 days ago


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7.5

Company rating: 7.5 out of 10

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Job description

Posting Details
Do you have questions about the application process? If so, please refer to the Applicant FAQ's.
Posting Details (Default Section)
Posting Number:
20251248F
Position Title:
Postdoctoral Researcher in Time Domain Astrophysics
Position Type:
Faculty
Location:
Villanova, PA
Recruitment Type:
Internal/External Applicants
Work Schedule:
full-time/12-months
Department:
186-Physics
Position Summary:
The Department of Physics at Villanova University invites applications for a postdoctoral position in time domain and high-energy astrophysics with Prof. Becka Phillipson. Successful candidates will work on topics broadly related to the study of transient and variable phenomena, with a focus on accreting compact sources (e.g., XRBs, AGN) in preparation for the upcoming Rubin Observatory's LSST. Projects will draw on new and archival observations from optical ground-based (e.g., Zwicky Transient Facility) and satellite (e.g., TESS) observatories, with potential supplementary data from X-ray observatories, and involve complexity analysis on uniquely variable sources. Applicants with general experience related to these observatories, timing variability of compact sources, time domain methodologies generally, machine learning techniques, OR complexity analysis/nonlinear dynamics are particularly well-matched to the opportunity, but applicants with theoretical expertise related to compact object variability or the aforementioned methodologies are also encouraged to apply.
The Villanova Physics Department is dedicated to excellence in teaching and research, and we recognize the importance of involving our undergraduates in cutting-edge research. We are particularly interested in candidates who can contribute in such an atmosphere. Successful candidates will take advantage of opportunities to mentor students in research and in career development. Postdoctoral researchers in the Physics Department also have the opportunity to gain compensated teaching experience in college classrooms. The position is planned for two years, with additional years contingent on the availability of funding.
Villanova is a Catholic university sponsored by the Augustinian Order. The University is an equal opportunity employer and seeks candidates who understand, respect and can contribute to the University's mission and values.
Duties and Responsibilities:
Duties: Analyze/simulate and interpret timing variability of accreting compact sources. Help supervise and mentor students working on related topics. Teach physics, if desired.
Minimum Qualifications:
PhD (or imminent defense) in Astrophysics, Physics, Math/Statistics, or related field
Preferred Qualifications:
Strong interest and expertise in high-energy astrophysics, particularly in timing analysis
Physical Requirements and/or Unusual Work Hours:
Special Message to Applicants:
Review of applications will begin on 7/23 and will continue until the position is filled.
Applications should be submitted to
jobs.villanova.edu/positionwith:
  • a cover letter
  • a 3-page statement of research interests
  • a CV with publication list
  • "Statement of Mission." The statement of mission is a 1-page document detailing the applicant's intended contributions to the University Mission and Enduring Commitments (found here: https://www1.villanova.edu/university/president/about-university.html).
  • Contact information for at least three references, who will receive a secure email link to upload confidential letters of recommendation when the application is submitted.

The intended start date can be as early as September 1 (Fall 2025). For more information, please feel free to email Becka Phillipson at rebecca.phillipson@villanova.edu.
Posting Date:
07/07/2025
Closing Date (11:59pm ET):
Salary Posting Information:
Competitive.
Salary Band:
Job Classification:
faculty

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About Villanova University

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Villanova University, located in Villanova, Pennsylvania, United States, operates within the higher education industry. Its establishment traces back to 1842 by the Augustinians, a Catholic religious order. The university offers a wide range of academic programs in various disciplines, including Liberal Arts and Sciences, Engineering, Nursing, Business, and Law, serving over 10,000 undergraduate, graduate, and law students. Guided by its Augustinian Catholic intellectual tradition, it is committed to community service, and it seeks to cultivate knowledgeable, thoughtful, and ethical leaders. The university’s mission is to empower students to ignite change, with a vision for a just and peaceful world.

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Colleges, universities, and professional schools

Company size

1,001 - 5,000 Employees

Headquarters location

Villanova, PA, US

Year founded

1842

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