Postdoctoral Scholar, Physics

Summary

The Gamma-Ray Astronomy group at Michigan Technological University invites applications for a postdoctoral position. We are seeking a highly qualified individual with interest and experience in astrophysics, particle physics, and astronomy in general. Particularly, we are looking for expertise in the detection of gamma and cosmic rays.

The Michigan Tech group is a founding member of the HAWC Observatory (http://hawc-observatory.org/ ) and has been involved in the analysis and interpretation of HAWC data from the beginning of its operation. We are also members of the SWGO Collaboration (http://www.swgo.org ), which is planning the construction of a wide-field-of-view, and very high duty-cycle, ground-based gamma-ray observatory in Chile. The position will have equal components of reconstruction and scientific analysis of observatory data, and detector calibration and optimization.

Michigan Tech attracts world-class faculty and staff who enrich the educational experience of smart, motivated, and adventurous students. Applicants who are committed to promoting a learning environment based on respect for all and academic excellence are strongly encouraged to apply.

Responsibilities and Essential Duties

Analyze data from HAWC central and outer ("outrigger") array, which significantly improves the sensitivity of previous HAWC analyses, and to apply their knowledge to the planning and preparation of the SWGO in Chile.

Reconstruction and scientific analysis of observatory data, and detector calibration and optimization.

Apply safety-related knowledge, skills, and practices to everyday work and apply continuous improvement strategies to everyday work.

Required Education, Certifications, Licensures

Applicants must have a Ph.D. in Physics, in Particle Physics, in Astrophysics, or in Astronomy. Degree must have been earned within 72 months prior to beginning of appointment.

Required Experience

Interest and experience in astrophysics, particle physics, and astronomy in general.

Expertise in the detection of gamma and cosmic rays.

Experience in experimental cosmic-ray physics, gamma-ray physics, or related fields, such as neutrino physics, elementary particle physics, general astrophysics, or astronomy.

Desirable Education and/or Experience

Required Knowledge, Skills, and/or Abilities

Demonstrated ability to initiate or carry out work resulting in peer-reviewed publications.

Desirable Knowledge, Skills, and/or Abilities

Demonstrated success in working with people with a wide variety of personal characteristics and viewpoints.

Work Environment and/or Physical Demands

Required Training and Other Conditions of Employment

Every employee at Michigan Technological University will receive the following four required pieces of training; additional training may be required by the department.
Required University Training:
• Employee Safety Overview
• Anti-Harassment, Discrimination, and Retaliation Training
• Annual Data Security Training
• Annual Title IX Training

Background Check:
Offers of employment are contingent upon and not considered finalized until the required background check has been performed and the results received and assessed.

Other Conditions of Employment:
The successful applicant will be responsible for ensuring eligibility for employment in the United States on or before the effective date of the appointment. This is not an E-Verified Position.

1

FLSA Status

Exempt

Appointment Term

12 months

Shift

Pay Rate/Salary

Title of Position Supervisor

Professor

Posting Type

Dependent on Funding

Special Instructions to Applicants (if applicable)

Full consideration for applications received by July 28, 2025.

Applicants will need to upload the following documents:
• Curriculum Vitae
• Cover Letter
• Research Statement
• List of Publications
• Names of Three References

We strongly encourage applicants to address the required and desired qualifications in their cover letter along with an explanation of how they will contribute to the Vision and Mission of Michigan Tech.

Additional Information

Michigan Tech, ranked an R1 institution by the Carnegie Classification of Institutions of Higher Education, attracts world-class faculty who enrich the educational experience of smart, motivated, and adventurous students. Applicants who are committed to promoting a learning environment for all are strongly encouraged to apply. Located in Michigan’s Upper Peninsula adjacent to Lake Superior, the Houghton community offers a small-town environment with outstanding four-season recreational opportunities.

To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform each essential duty satisfactorily. The requirements listed are representative of the knowledge, skill, and/or ability required. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

Other Conditions of Employment:
Please note that successful applicants are responsible for ensuring their eligibility to work in the United States (i.e. a citizen or national of the United States, a lawful permanent resident, a foreign national authorized to work in the United States without the need of an employer sponsorship) on or before the effective date of your appointment, and maintain eligibility without sponsorship throughout your appointment.

Michigan Technological University is an Equal Opportunity Educational Institution/Equal Opportunity Employer that provides equal opportunity for all, including protected veterans and individuals with disabilities.  

If you require any auxiliary aids, services, or accommodations during Michigan Tech’s hiring process please notify the Human Resources office at 906-487-2280 or hr-help@mtu.edu.