Description

Position Summary

We invite applications for a postdoctoral position in the Department of Astronomy at Indiana University to work with Professor Songhu Wang on the demographics, architectures, and dynamics of planetary systems in both the Solar System and extrasolar systems.

The successful candidate will lead or co-lead projects in one or more of the following areas: photometry (e.g., transit light curves; LSST Solar System science), spectroscopy (e.g., stellar properties; radial velocities), and astrometry (primarily Gaia DR4), using data from ground- and space-based facilities. We especially value candidates with strong technical skills for data-intensive research and statistical modeling.

IU Astronomy has guaranteed access to NEID , the high-precision radial-velocity spectrograph on the 3.5-m WIYN telescope, enabling powerful synergies with transit as well as Gaia/ LSST discoveries. Indiana University also provides excellent research computing resources (high-performance computing clusters, large-scale storage, and advanced visualization).

Initial term: 2 years, renewable for a 3rd year contingent on satisfactory performance and continued funding.
Start date: As early as January 2026 and ideally no later than August2026 (negotiable).
Compensation: Competitive salary and full benefits.

Basic Qualifications

Ph.D. (or equivalent) in Astronomy, Astrophysics, Physics, Planetary Science, or a closely related field by the start date.

Demonstrated experience in one or more of: large-scale data analysis, time-series photometry, spectroscopy, astrometry, Bayesian/statistical inference, and/or software development for astronomical datasets.

Department Contact for Questions

Songhu Wang (sw121@iu.edu)

Special Instructions

Applications, including a CV with publication list, statement of research interests and experience, and letters of reference should be submitted through the application portal:

https://indiana.peopleadmin.com/postings/30903

Application Instructions

Cover letter

Curriculum vitae with publication list

Statement of research interests and experience (please highlight your technical strengths)

Three letters of recommendation

Applications should be received by December 1, 2025 for fullest consideration. However, later applications will be accepted until the position is filled.

All inquiries can be directed to Professor Songhu Wang (sw121@iu.edu).