What are the responsibilities and job description for the Postdoctoral Associate position at Massachusetts Institute of Technology?
Posting Description
POSTDOCTORAL ASSOCIATE, Chemistry , will lead design and development of an open-source Python-based package for the prediction and analysis of spectroscopic data, primarily rotational spectra and radio astronomical observations. The package will be an overhaul and extension of a first-generation suite of codes . In consultation with stakeholders, the postdoc will synthesize an extensive (existing) collection of science and technical requirements into a development plan and roadmap, then lead those development efforts. The work will be performed in close collaboration with scientific staff at the National Radio Astronomy Observatory (NRAO) to identify synergies with next-generation telescopes (e.g. ALMA WSU and ngVLA) and value-added archival data products. The postdoc will be expected to devote 50% of their effort to this development process during that time, while the remaining 50% is to be used to pursue their own scientific interests. As part of the McGuire group, the postdoc will have access to several state-of-the-art microwave spectrometers, numerous large astronomical datasets, an extensive network of international collaborators, and the opportunity to mentor students and travel to meetings to present their work.
Job Requirements
REQUIRED : PhD in Astronomy/Astrophysics, Computer Science, Physics, Chemistry, or related field; demonstrated expertise in Python and significant software development experience. PREFERRED : Experience with rotational spectroscopy, radio astronomy, radiative transfer calculations, and/or machine learning. These qualifications can be demonstrated through peer-reviewed publications, but it is recognized that publications are not always the best indicator of skills and experience in scientific software development.
This step of the application requires only a curriculum vitae and cover letter (2 pages maximum). Applications will be reviewed starting January 2026 and review will continue until the position is filled.
The initial appointment is for one year, with renewal for an additional year available contingent on performance and mutual agreement. Further extensions are possible contingent on funding.
The postdoc will be located at MIT, but will visit NRAO Headquarters in Charlottesville, VA, as part of these design efforts.
1/9/2026
POSTDOCTORAL ASSOCIATE, Chemistry , will lead design and development of an open-source Python-based package for the prediction and analysis of spectroscopic data, primarily rotational spectra and radio astronomical observations. The package will be an overhaul and extension of a first-generation suite of codes . In consultation with stakeholders, the postdoc will synthesize an extensive (existing) collection of science and technical requirements into a development plan and roadmap, then lead those development efforts. The work will be performed in close collaboration with scientific staff at the National Radio Astronomy Observatory (NRAO) to identify synergies with next-generation telescopes (e.g. ALMA WSU and ngVLA) and value-added archival data products. The postdoc will be expected to devote 50% of their effort to this development process during that time, while the remaining 50% is to be used to pursue their own scientific interests. As part of the McGuire group, the postdoc will have access to several state-of-the-art microwave spectrometers, numerous large astronomical datasets, an extensive network of international collaborators, and the opportunity to mentor students and travel to meetings to present their work.
Job Requirements
REQUIRED : PhD in Astronomy/Astrophysics, Computer Science, Physics, Chemistry, or related field; demonstrated expertise in Python and significant software development experience. PREFERRED : Experience with rotational spectroscopy, radio astronomy, radiative transfer calculations, and/or machine learning. These qualifications can be demonstrated through peer-reviewed publications, but it is recognized that publications are not always the best indicator of skills and experience in scientific software development.
This step of the application requires only a curriculum vitae and cover letter (2 pages maximum). Applications will be reviewed starting January 2026 and review will continue until the position is filled.
The initial appointment is for one year, with renewal for an additional year available contingent on performance and mutual agreement. Further extensions are possible contingent on funding.
The postdoc will be located at MIT, but will visit NRAO Headquarters in Charlottesville, VA, as part of these design efforts.
1/9/2026