ERC-FUNDED POSTDOC POSITION IN EXOPLANET ATMOSPHERES WITHIN THE "THIRSTEE" PROJECT

We invite applications for one postdoc position in exoplanets at the Instituto de Astrofísica de Andalucía (IAA-CSIC) located in Granada (Spain) within the ERC-funded "THIRSTEE" project led by Dr. Rafael Luque. The desired starting date is Fall 2025.

 - THE PROJECT -

THIRSTEE aims to decipher the enigmatic nature and origin of planets with sizes between Earth and Neptune, also known as sub-Neptunes. The project is based on state-of-the-art observations using a multi-technique approach combining transit, radial velocity, atmospheric characterization, and novel statistical analyses. The THIRSTEE team at IAA-CSIC will be composed of three PhD students and two postdocs, and will have frequent interactions with collaborators of the THIRSTEE project in other institutions worldwide (incl. USA, UK, and Spain). 

 - WHAT ARE WE LOOKING FOR -

The candidate must have a background on exoplanet atmospheres, with a focus on space-based observations (HST and JWST) and their interpretation using state-of-the-art modelling tools. The postdoc will contribute to the analysis of the JWST observations already granted to the team and the development of new proposals and projects aiming to understand the atmospheric and interior composition of sub-Neptunes. The postdoc will also be involved in the mentoring of the PhD students of the group. They will receive support to travel to national and international conferences, carry out research stays abroad, and organize international meetings. The candidate will have the chance to join the vibrant and dynamic work done at the IAA-CSIC in outreach and science communication.

IAA-CSIC employs over 250 members, including 30+ graduate students and 120+ postdocs. The institute is at the forefront of all fields of modern astronomy, manages the CAHA and OSN observatories, and is involved in multiple ground- and space-based state-of-the-art facilities (incl. SKA, EST, ELT, CTA, EHT). We have a strong focus on inclusion, diversity, and equity. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to background, race, religion, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, or age. Women and candidates from underrepresented groups in Astronomy are strongly encouraged to apply.

 - DOCUMENTS -

Please prepare the following documents (in English and PDF only):

 1. Cover letter (max. 2 pages)

 2. Previous and current research and Research statement (max. 5 pages)

 3. DEI statement (max. 1 page)

 4. Curriculum Vitae

 5. Publication list

 6. Three reference letters to be sent directly by the mentors (same deadline)

 - PRESELECTION PROCESS -

Submit your documentation before January 15, 2025 here:

https://form.jotform.com/ercthirstee/erc-wp1-postdoc

Shortlisted candidates will be invited for an online interview the last week of January. They will receive information about how to proceed with the documentation needed to comply with the requirements of the administration.

 - SALARY -

The yearly salary ranges between 38,494.15 and 52,843.27 EUR before taxes depending on experience, which is highly competitive thanks to the ERC-funded nature of the project. Deductions of up to 20% for income tax (IRPF) and social security (dependent on the candidate's personal situation) are expected. The contract provides social security cover for spouse or de facto partner and children, and standard Spanish benefits (maternity/paternity leave, sick leave, universal health care, etc.). A generous research budget for traveling and computer equipment is also included.

For specific information about the position, please contact Dr. Rafael Luque (rluque@uchicago.edu).