Postdoctoral Researcher in Plasma Astrophysics

The "Extreme Plasmas around Compact Objects" group at Dartmouth College's Department of Physics and Astronomy invites applications for a postdoctoral researcher. Our group integrates theoretical frameworks with advanced simulations to uncover the origin of energetic transients in magnetized astrophysical environments. A researcher joining our group will encounter a dynamic research environment focused on computational plasma-astrophysics. The position offers flexibility to pursue personal research interests and develop an impactful research agenda.

Qualified candidates will have interests in one or more of the following areas: magnetized coronae, magnetized atmospheres of compact objects, plasma physics of shocks, interacting binary magnetospheres, and/or fundamental plasma instabilities in high-energy astrophysics. The person in this position will investigate high-energy radiative plasma physics and create advanced computational tools for astrophysics. We welcome applicants interested in working with GPU-accelerated particle-in-cell codes, particularly the ENTITY code for advanced plasma simulations and models of compact object magnetospheres. The postdoctoral researcher will also have access to other tools used by the group, including multi-fluid radiative transfer codes and magnetohydrodynamics tools.

A postdoctoral position is also available in plasma physics; some candidates may be qualified to apply to both positions.

The initial appointment will be for two years starting between Spring and Fall 2025, with possibility of renewal for a third year. The exact start date is flexible. This position is full-time, non-remote, in-residence at Dartmouth in Hanover, NH. The postdoctoral researcher will be primarily advised and hosted in the Department of Physics and Astronomy-a highly interactive and vibrant community of over 70 faculty, graduate students, and postdocs with an excellent plasma physics program. Postdoctoral scholars are also supported by the Guarini School for Graduate and Advanced Studies, including their diversity and inclusion initiatives.

Dartmouth is committed to academic excellence and encourages the open exchange of ideas within a culture of mutual respect. People with different backgrounds, life experiences, and perspectives make the Dartmouth community diverse, which enhances academic excellence. In addition, we value applicants who have a demonstrated ability to contribute to Dartmouth's diversity initiatives in STEM research, such as the Women in Science Project, the EE Just STEM Scholars Program, and the Academic Summer Undergraduate Research Experience. Applicants should address in their cover letter how their research, teaching, service, and/or life experiences prepare them to advance Dartmouth's commitment to diversity in service of academic excellence.

• PhD in physics, astrophysics, or a closely related field at the time of starting the position
• Expertise in computational physics, numerical methods, and high-performance computing, and experience with astronomical dataset analysis
• Familiarity with scientific programming (C , Fortran), version control systems, and GPU computing
• Strong track record of relevant publications in peer-reviewed journals
• Excellent oral and written communication skills
• Interest in visualization techniques for large simulation datasets, using platforms like Python, Mathematica, ParaView, or comparable tools
• Ability to interact and communicate effectively with people from diverse backgrounds, disciplines, organizational affiliations, and levels of expertise
• Capacity to work independently with minimal supervision, demonstrating strong problem-solving and creative thinking skills
• Ability to work well as a member of a growing team that includes undergraduate and graduate students, as well as collaborators at US institutions and abroad
• Willingness to travel to conferences and collaborative meetings, and to participate in or lead community-building activities

Major Duties/Responsibilities

• Develop and analyze simulations of astrophysical plasmas near compact objects; oversee large projects using national supercomputing resources
• Participate in departmental activities, engage with postdocs, graduate and undergraduate students, principal investigators, and project team members across partner institutions
• Deliver guest lectures in astrophysics and modeling courses related to the candidate's profile
• Publish findings in peer-reviewed journals and present research at conferences
• Mentor undergraduate and graduate students in scientific methods and career development
• Foster an equitable, inclusive, and antiracist lab environment; practice understanding-based communication techniques

Please submit the following materials electronically via Interfolio:

1. Cover letter;
2. CV, including contact information for three reference letters;
3. Research statement, including past experiences and future goals.

Review of applications wil begin on January 1, 2025; applications submitted after this date will be reviewed until the position is filled. Recommendation letters will be requested only for finalists. For questions about the position, please contact Dr. Jens Mahlmann (jens.f.mahlmann@dartmouth.edu) with "EPaCO postdoc" in the subject line.