Assistant Research Professor, Steward Observatory (Career-Track)

Assistant Research Professor, Steward Observatory (Career-Track) Posting Number req26897 Department Steward Observatory Department Website Link https://astro.arizona.edu Location Tucson Campus Address Tucson, AZ USA Position Highlights Steward Observatory seeks to fill a Research Professor position to support exoplanet science within the Center for Astronomical Adaptive Optics (CAAO). This faculty member will bridge the gap between science and instrumentation, informing, commissioning, and analyzing exoplanet direct imaging instruments and datasets. The position will support new and in-progress space instruments for coronagraphy and high-resolution astronomy while advancing the technology readiness of a variety of approaches through simulation, analysis, reduction, and publication. Recently selected to build the Lazuli instruments and leading the GMagAO-X instrument, Steward Observatory provides direct access to various world-class facilities for ground-based radio and optical observing. Among these are the Large Binocular Telescope and 6.5m aperture telescopes located in both the Northern and Southern Hemispheres. Applicants will be eligible to submit their own science proposals and lead independent research programs. As a key member of the research team, the successful candidate will play an active role in defining and implementing science priorities, mentoring students and postdocs, and developing cutting-edge tools for high-contrast imaging. This career-track appointment is not eligible for tenure. This position may be eligible for a hybrid work assignment in conversation with the supervisor. Visa sponsorship is not available for this position. Outstanding U of A benefits include health, dental, and vision insurance plans; life insurance and disability programs; paid vacation, sick leave, and holidays; U of A/ASU/NAU tuition reduction for the employee and qualified family members; retirement plans; access to U of A recreation and cultural activities; and more! The University of Arizona has been recognized for our innovative work-life programs. Duties & Responsibilities Support high-contrast imaging projects within the Center for Astronomical Adaptive Optics (CAAO). Mentor students in best practices for exoplanet imaging and astronomical data reduction. Build and contribute to target selection and data reduction tools. Organize exoplanet science journal clubs and symposia within the CAAO. Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities (KSAs): Proven ability to collaborate across disciplines. Minimum Qualifications PhD in astronomy, optics, physics, engineering, or a related field. Minimum of 5 years of experience in high-contrast imaging or coronagraphy. Preferred Qualifications Experience in exoplanet atmosphere modeling. Experience in team management in high-stress environments. Experience with modern software development practices and documentation, including Python and Git. Experience managing priorities across teams. Experience commissioning an astronomical instrument. Experience mentoring students. Rank Professor Tenure Information Career-Track (CT) FLSA Exempt Full Time/Part Time Full Time Number of Hours Worked per Week 40 Job FTE 1.0 Work Calendar Fiscal Job Category Research Faculty Benefits Eligible Yes - Full Benefits Rate of Pay DOE Compensation Type salary at 1.0 full-time equivalency (FTE) Type of criminal background check required: Name-based criminal background check (non-security sensitive) Number of Vacancies 1 Target Hire Date 9/14/2026 Expected End Date Contact Information for Candidates Ewan Douglas Ph.D. Associate Professor, Astronomy douglase@arizona.edu Open Date 8/25/2026 Open Until Filled Yes Documents Needed to Apply Curriculum Vitae (CV) and Cover Letter Special Instructions to Applicant Notice of Availability of the Annual Security and Fire Safety Report In compliance with the Jeanne Clery Campus Safety Act (Clery Act), each year the University of Arizona releases an Annual Security Report (ASR) for each of the University’s campuses. These reports disclose information including Clery crime statistics for the previous three calendar years and policies, procedures, and programs the University uses to keep students and employees safe, including how to report crimes or other emergencies and resources for crime victims. As a campus with residential housing facilities, the Main Campus ASR also includes a combined Annual Fire Safety report with information on fire statistics and fire safety systems, policies, and procedures. Paper copies of the Reports can be obtained by contacting the University Compliance Office at cleryact@arizona.edu.