Hybrid Post Doctoral Researcher in High-Contrast Instrumentation presso Space Telescope Science Institute (STScI)

The Space Telescope Science Institute (STScI) invites applications for one or more postdoctoral positions in high-contrast instrumentation for imaging of exoplanetary systems. We anticipate a position focused on advancing technologies for NASA’s upcoming Habitable World Observatory. The three main themes are:

1. Technology demonstration of coronagraph masks (Lead Dr. L. Pueyo).
   Duties will include numerical optimization of coronagraph masks, diffractive modeling of high-contrast experiments, implementing wavefront control algorithms on the high-contrast testbed, and error budgeting associated with the testbed experiments. The successful candidate will work with the STScI Makidon Optics Lab team and collaborate with ongoing experiments on coronagraph technologies at the Jet Propulsion Laboratory.
2. Technology demonstration of wavefront control and post-processing algorithms (Lead Dr. R. Soummer).
   Duties will include numerical diffractive simulations of wavefront sensing and control for segmented apertures, implementing wavefront sensing and control algorithms on the high-contrast testbed, developing post-processing methods that utilize wavefront sensor data, and demonstrating those post-processing methods. The successful candidate will work with the STScI Makidon Optics Lab team and collaborate closely with project partners.
3. Roman Coronagraph Community Participation Program (Lead Dr. L. Pueyo).
   The successful candidate will work as a member of the Roman Coronagraph Community Participation Program team. Responsibilities include characterizing CGI performance based on ground test data and optimizing possible observations during the mission’s technology demonstration phase. This effort will place particular emphasis on maturing technologies relevant to the future Habitable World Observatory.

The successful candidate will join STScI’s ~20-person Exoplanetary Systems Imaging Group. Members of this group lead a wide range of studies lead a wide range of studies of nearby planetary systems, including exoplanets, brown dwarfs, and circumstellar disks, using data from both ground- and space-based observatories. Current efforts include the characterization of exoplanet atmospheres from 3–15 microns using JWST NIRCam and MIRI coronagraphy, development of advanced data processing methods for imaging spectroscopy with JWST’s NIRSpec and MIRI IFUs, and characterization of exoplanets using VLTI/GRAVITY. Candidates interested in pursuing astronomical observations in parallel with instrumentation research should indicate so, as observational research opportunities may arise during the postdoctoral term.  We also encourage postdocs to develop and lead their own related research projects through the HST, JWST, and NASA ROSES annual calls for proposals. The nominal start date will be in Summer/Fall 2026. The initial appointment will be for two years, with renewal possible for a third year, subject to satisfactory performance and continued funding.

STScI, located on Johns Hopkins University Campus in Baltimore, Maryland, offers an excellent benefit package (including comprehensive healthcare and paid parental leave), competitive salaries, relocation assistance, and a stimulating work environment. STScI’s pay is commensurate to the year of Ph.D. Range $74,258 -$84,750. 

We welcome inquiries about these postdoctoral positions at [email protected].

The following materials are requested in a single PDF file: a brief cover letter detailing your interest in the position and relevant expertise, curriculum vitae, publication list, and a summary of previous and current research (limited to 3 pages). Complete applications received by October 17, 2025, will receive full consideration. Applicants should arrange for three confidential letters of reference. Reference letters must be submitted October 17, 2025, via the on-line application system.

Please ONLY use this link to submit your application:  https://stsci.slideroom.com/#/permalink/program/85949

Questions regarding the application process can be sent directly to [email protected].