| Location | New Brunswick, NJ |
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:
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 Researcher position to work with Professor Renyu Hu in exoplanet science. The appointment is expected to begin on or after July 1, 2027.
The successful candidate will join a vibrant and rapidly growing research program at the forefront of exoplanet discovery and characterization. The position offers opportunities to lead observational and theoretical investigations aimed at understanding the atmospheres, climates, evolution, and habitability of exoplanets, particularly small planets orbiting nearby stars.
Research activities may include:
The successful candidate will have access to a broad suite of modeling tools and observing resources. Through the Rutgers astrophysics program, opportunities are available to pursue observations with the Southern African Large Telescope (SALT), one of the largest optical telescopes in the Southern Hemisphere. The combination of premier observational facilities and advanced theoretical frameworks provides an exceptional environment for impactful and transformative research.
The postdoctoral researcher will be encouraged and supported in developing scientific independence, pursuing professional development opportunities, and taking leadership roles in proposal development, scientific collaborations, and observational and theoretical research projects.
Research Environment
The Department of Physics and Astronomy is located in Piscataway, New Jersey, on Rutgers University's flagship campus. 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 Rutgers exoplanet research group actively utilizes JWST, maintains preferred access to SALT, and plays a significant role in developing the scientific foundation for future exoplanet missions, including HWO.
Terms of Appointment
The position is supported through a combination of the Downsbrough Endowment and externally funded research grants. The initial appointment is for two years, with the possibility of renewal contingent upon mutual agreement and the availability of funding.
Salary will be competitive and commensurate with qualifications and experience.
Located in New Jersey, Rutgers University is a premiere, Research 1, public land grant institution that reflects the broad spectrum of backgrounds in the state. The School of Arts and Sciences, the largest and most comprehensive school at Rutgers University, is especially interested in candidates who can advance the goals and values expressed in the SAS Strategic Plan. Applicants are encouraged to include in their cover letter information about how they will further our mission of excellence.
Position Status Full Time Posting Number 26FA0968 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
Excellence in research, with observational and/or theoretical experience relevant to one or more of the areas described above, and a commitment to developing as an independent researcher will be the primary criteria for consideration. Questions about this position may be directed to Professor Renyu Hu at rh1071@physics.rutgers.edu
Preferred Qualifications Equipment Utilized Physical Demands and Work Environment Overview Statement
Posting Details
Special Instructions to Applicants
Application Materials
Applicants should submit:
Applications received by December 15, 2026 will receive full consideration.
Quick Link to Posting https://jobs.rutgers.edu/postings/282988 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
Posting Specific Questions
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Applicant Documents
Required Documents
Optional Documents