The Center for Astrophysics | Harvard & Smithsonian (CfA) is a joint institution with the Smithsonian Astrophysical Observatory (SAO) and the Harvard College Observatory (HCO). The CfA is a diverse astrophysical institution where more than 800 staff and students are engaged in a broad program of research and education in astronomy, astrophysics, and earth, planetary and space sciences. The CfA is at the international forefront of the scientific exploration of the universe. Our research covers theoretical astrophysics, observational ground and space-based astronomy, engineering and technology development, and education. The research objectives of the CfA are carried out primarily with support from the federal government, the Smithsonian Institution, Harvard, and philanthropy. At the CfA, the next generation of scientific leaders are being trained and mentored through a broad range of postdoctoral positions and fellowships as well as graduate and undergraduate student programs.
The mission of the Clay Postdoctoral Fellowship program at SAO is to foster innovative astrophysics research by providing independent researchers full access to the facilities, research staff, and resources of the CfA.
Deadline: Oct. 21, 2024
Successful candidates will be outstanding researchers with demonstrated promise in theory, observation, instrumentation, engineering, and/or laboratory or experimental astrophysics. Open to all qualified applicants who are English-speaking citizens from any nation.
Eligible candidates must be within 4 years or less of equivalent full-time post-PhD research experience at time of the fellowship start date of September 1, 2025. Time taken for family leave, carer duties, illness, or other career gaps does not count towards the 4 years of post-PhD full-time equivalent research (FTER) and should be noted in the CV.
- Four year appointment with the fourth year contingent on satisfactory progress
- Stipend of $82,500 with an annual cost-of-living adjustment
- Research budget of $18,000 for each year
- Funding for health and dental benefits for the Fellow and dependents (if applicable), at no cost to the Fellow
- One-time relocation allowance