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Assistant Research Professor, Steward Observatory (Career-Track)

Posting Number req26897

Department Steward Observatory

Department Website Link https://astro.arizona.edu

Location Tucson Campus

Address Tucson, AZ USA

Position Highlights

Steward Observatory seeks to fill a Research Professor position to support exoplanet science within the Center for Astronomical Adaptive Optics (CAAO). This faculty member will bridge the gap between science and instrumentation, informing, commissioning, and analyzing exoplanet direct imaging instruments and datasets. The position will support new and in-progress space instruments for coronagraphy and high-resolution astronomy while advancing the technology readiness of a variety of approaches through simulation, analysis, reduction, and publication.

Recently selected to build the Lazuli instruments and leading the GMagAO-X instrument, Steward Observatory provides direct access to various world-class facilities for ground-based radio and optical observing. Among these are the Large Binocular Telescope and 6.5m aperture telescopes located in both the Northern and Southern Hemispheres. Applicants will be eligible to submit their own science proposals and lead independent research programs. As a key member of the research team, the successful candidate will play an active role in defining and implementing science priorities, mentoring students and postdocs, and developing cutting-edge tools for high-contrast imaging.

This career-track appointment is not eligible for tenure. This position may be eligible for a hybrid work assignment in conversation with the supervisor.

Visa sponsorship is not available for this position.

Outstanding U of A benefits include health, dental, and vision insurance plans; life insurance and disability programs; paid vacation, sick leave, and holidays; U of A/ASU/NAU tuition reduction for the employee and qualified family members; retirement plans; access to U of A recreation and cultural activities; and more!

The University of Arizona has been recognized for our innovative work-life programs.

Duties & Responsibilities

• Supporthigh-contrast imaging projects within the Center for Astronomical AdaptiveOptics (CAAO).
• Mentor students inbest practices for exoplanet imaging and astronomical data reduction.
• Buildand contribute to target selection and data reduction tools.
• Organizeexoplanet science journal clubs and symposia within the CAAO.

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities (KSAs):

• Proven ability to collaborate across disciplines.

Minimum Qualifications

• PhD inastronomy, optics, physics, engineering, or a related field.
• Minimumof 5 years of experience in high-contrast imaging or coronagraphy.

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience in exoplanet atmosphere modeling.
• Experience in team management in high-stress environments.
• Experience with modern software development practices and documentation, including Python and Git.
• Experience managing priorities across teams.
• Experience commissioning an astronomical instrument.
• Experience mentoring students.

Rank Professor

FLSA Exempt

Full Time/Part Time Full Time

Number of Hours Worked per Week 40

Job FTE 1.0

Work Calendar Fiscal

Job Category Research Faculty

Benefits Eligible Yes - Full Benefits

Rate of Pay DOE

Compensation Type salary at 1.0 full-time equivalency (FTE)

Type of criminal background check required: Name-based criminal background check (non-security sensitive)

Number of Vacancies 1

Target Hire Date 9/14/2026

Documents Needed to Apply Curriculum Vitae (CV) and Cover Letter

Open Date 8/25/2026

Open Until Filled Yes

Contact Information for Candidates Ewan Douglas Ph.D.
Associate Professor, Astronomy
douglase@arizona.edu

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