Post-Doctoral position in Extragalactic Astrophysics (JWST)

Position
Details
Title Post-Doctoral position in Extragalactic Astrophysics (JWST)
School Faculty of Arts and Sciences
Department/Area Harvard College Observatory
Position Description The Harvard College Observatory invites applications for one or more postdoctoral positions in extragalactic astrophysics, with a focus on observational studies using the James Webb Space Telescope (JWST).
The successful candidate will work with Prof. Daniel Eisenstein and collaborators on the analysis and interpretation of JWST data, with particular emphasis on deep-field observations. The position provides access to large, high-impact JWST datasets and opportunities to contribute to multiple ongoing programs, as well as to a broader portfolio of datasets through the JWST Advanced Deep Extragalactic Survey (JADES) collaboration.
The postdoctoral researcher will contribute to ongoing JWST programs and collaborative projects, while being strongly encouraged to develop an independent research program. The postdoc is expected to lead and contribute to publications and will have opportunities to take on leadership roles within collaborative projects.
Research topics include, but are not limited to:
Galaxy formation and evolution across cosmic time
Spectroscopic studies of galaxies and AGN at intermediate to high redshift
Analysis of JWST slit and/or slitless spectroscopy datasets and/or JWST imaging datasets
Development of methods for large spectroscopic surveys and data products
This is a two-year term appointment from date of hire with the possibility of renewal for a third year contingent upon the availability of funding and performance. The nominal starting date will be September 1, 2026, but an earlier or later start is negotiable.
Basic Qualifications Applicants should have:
A Ph.D. in astronomy, astrophysics, or a related field by the start date
Demonstrated experience in extragalactic astrophysics
Strong background in observational data analysis, particularly with JWST data.
Additional Qualifications Special Instructions To apply, please submit:
Cover Letter
Curriculum Vitae
Research statement (2-3 pages)
Three (3) letters of recommendation.
Applications received by May 31, 2026 will receive full consideration.
Contact Information Daniel Eisenstein
Contact Email deisenstein@cfa.harvard.edu
Salary Range $67,600 - $72,500
Pay offered to the selected candidate is dependent on factors such as years of experience, training or qualification, field of scholarship, and accomplishments in the field.
Minimum Number of References Required 3
Maximum Number of References Allowed 3
Keywords EEO/Non-Discrimination Commitment Statement
Harvard University is committed to equal opportunity and non-discrimination. We seek talent from all parts of society and the world, and we strive to ensure everyone at Harvard thrives. Our differences help our community advance Harvard's academic purposes.
Harvard has an equal employment opportunity policy that outlines our commitment to prohibiting discrimination on the basis of race, ethnicity, color, national origin, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, veteran status, religion, disability, or any other characteristic protected by law or identified in the university's non-discrimination policy. Harvard's equal employment opportunity policy and non-discrimination policy help all community members participate fully in work and campus life free from harassment and discrimination.
Supplemental Questions
Required fields are indicated with an asterisk (•).
Applicant Documents
Required Documents
Curriculum Vitae
Cover Letter
Statement of Research
Optional Documents