Description

Position Overview

The Department of Physics and Astronomy at the University of Kansas (KU) seeks to fill a postdoctoral researcher position in measurements of transiting planet occurrence rates, working in Professor Ian Crossfield's KU ExoLab group.

STARTING DATE: November 15, 2025 (or later; negotiable).

LENGTH OF APPOINTMENT: Initial appointment is for two years with the possibility of renewal annually for subsequent years subject to review and continued grant funding.

GENERAL DUTIES: Research in occurrence rates of transiting planets. The successful candidate will contribute in several aspects of Prof. Crossfield's ExoLab research program: in particular, with a focus on the measurement of eta-Earth (the occurrence rate of rocky planets in or near their stars' habitable zones). Of particular interest are those candidates motivated to work on archival or new data from Kepler, TESS, Roman, PLATO, and/or other novel facilities.

Job Description

Conduct research in transiting planet detection and characterization, in particular occurrence rates of transiting planets. This work will involve some or all of: reanalysis of Kepler photometry and supporting data of systems relevant for eta-Earth measurements; calculation of eta-Earth and related occurrence rates of relevant planets; and simulations of upcoming or novel facility observations that could improve the current state of occurrence rate measurements. This also entails participation in relevant facets of the group's research endeavors ranging from data analysis, software development, publication preparation, grant proposal preparation, editorial work, presentation of results, outreach and career development, and travel as required for work duties.

Specific Job Duties (percentage of time):
90% - Analysis of data and/or calculation of new simulated data, and related work. Documentation, presentation and publication of research results.

10% - Assist in guiding the group's graduate and undergraduate students, and with outreach and Broader Impact efforts.

Required Qualifications

Evaluation of the required qualification and preferred qualification will be made through (1) records of accomplishments entered in CV, (2) description of research and education experience provided in the application materials, (3) references, and (4) publications as appropriate.

1. A Ph.D. in physics, astronomy, astrophysics, or a related field by date of appointment
2. Experience with exoplanetary astrophysics

NOTE: To be appointed at the Postdoctoral Researcher title, it is necessary to have the PhD in hand. Appointments made without a diploma or certified transcript indicating an earned doctorate are conditional hires and are appointed on an acting basis not to exceed 6 months.

This position requires a formal degree in the cited discipline area(s) to ensure that candidates have advanced knowledge, analytical skills and professional competencies necessary to perform the duties of the position. The level of degree is commonly recognized as the standard qualification for similar roles in the public and private sector, ensuring that the university remains competitive with industry aligned practices, enhances collaboration with external partners, and supports the delivery of services and programs that meet professional and market-driven expectations.

Additional Candidate Instruction

A complete application consists of:

• a cover letter,
• a description of research expertise and interests (as pertaining to the projects described above),
• a curriculum vitae,
• names and email addresses of at least two references

Applications received before Wednesday October 1, 2025 will receive full consideration; review will continue until the position is filled.

Disclaimer

The University of Kansas prohibits discrimination on the basis of race, color, ethnicity, religion, sex, national origin, age, ancestry, disability, status as a veteran, sexual orientation, marital status, parental status, gender identity, gender expression, and genetic information in the university's programs and activities. Retaliation is also prohibited by university policy. The following person has been designated to handle inquiries regarding the nondiscrimination policies and procedures and is the Title IX Coordinator for all KU and KUMC campuses: Associate Vice Chancellor for the Office of Civil Rights and Title IX, [email protected], Room 1082, Dole Human Development Center, 1000 Sunnyside Avenue, Lawrence, KS 66045, 785-864-6414, 711 TTY. Reports can be submitted by contacting the Title IX Coordinator as provided herein or using the Title IX online report form and complaints can be submitted with the Title IX Coordinator or using the Title IX online complaint form.