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Position Details
Position Information
Recruitment/Posting Title
Postdoctoral Associate - Researcher in Exoplanet Sciences
Department
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 Department of Physics and Astronomy at Rutgers University invites applications for a postdoctoral research position to collaborate with Prof. Renyu Hu on the characterization of small exoplanets in the era of James Webb Space Telescope (JWST). The position will begin on or after September 1, 2026.
The successful candidate will work at the forefront of exoplanet research and will have the opportunities to extract scientific results from multiple JWST programs, develop and apply advanced atmospheric and surface models, and integrate observational and theoretical approaches to study the evolution and climates of small exoplanets. Specific research activities may include one or more of the following: (1) data reduction and analysis, including the development of new techniques and customized pipelines; (2) planet characterization combining space-based observations with ground-based, high-resolution spectroscopy; (3) modeling of exoplanet atmospheres, including radiative transfer and photochemistry across diverse planetary scenarios; and (4) simulations of the formation and evolution of small exoplanets, including surface and geological processes. The postdoctoral researcher may focus on one or more of these areas. The application and development of AI/ML methods to enhance and accelerate research is also encouraged.
The postdoc will be encouraged and supported in pursuing independent research and professional development. The postdoc will also be supported in developing new science cases for future observations. The integration of modeling and observations provides strong potential for impactful and transformative discoveries.
The Department of Physics and Astronomy is located in Piscataway, NJ, on the flagship campus of Rutgers, the State University of New Jersey. The campus is approximately 45 minutes from New York City, and the area features several leading astrophysics departments and institutes, facilitating rich intellectual exchange and collaborations.
The position is funded through a combination of the Downsbrough endowment at Rutgers and external research grants. The initial appointment is for two years, with the possibility of renewal, contingent on mutual agreement and the availability of funding. Salary will be competitive and commensurate with experience.
Excellence in research, with observational and/or theoretical experience relevant to one or more of the areas listed above, will be the primary criterion for consideration. Questions about this position may be directed to Prof. Renyu Hu at rh1071@physics.rutgers.edu.
Required Documents:
1. CV including a list of publications
2. Statement of research experience, interests, and professional development plans
3. Contact information for three professional references
Applications received by July 31, 2026, will receive full consideration.
Position Status
Full Time
Posting Number
26FA0592
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
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/276663
Campus
Rutgers University-New Brunswick
Home Location Campus
Busch (RU-New Brunswick)
City
Piscataway
State
NJ
Location Details
Pre-employment Screenings
All offers of employment are contingent upon successful completion of all pre-employment screenings.
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.
Equal Employment Opportunity Statement
It is university policy to provide equal employment opportunity to all its employees and applicants for employment regardless of their race, creed, color, national origin, age, ancestry, nationality, marital or domestic partnership or civil union status, sex, pregnancy, gender identity or expression, disability status, liability for military service, protected veteran status, affectional or sexual orientation, atypical cellular or blood trait, genetic information (including the refusal to submit to genetic testing), or any other category protected by law. As an institution, we encourage all qualified applicants to apply. For additional information please see the Non-Discrimination Statement at the following web address: http://uhr.rutgers.edu/non-discrimination-statement