Pre-Doctoral Researcher, Center for Computational Astrophysics

The Center for Computational Astrophysics (CCA) at the Simons Foundation’s Flatiron Institute seeks temporary full-time research analysts as part of its Pre-Doctoral Program. 

The aim of this program is to provide graduate students from institutions worldwide the opportunity to be employed at the CCA for about 4.5 months for the purpose of working on a research project with one or more CCA staff mentors as well as expanding collaborative networks. The project should be distinct from but complementary to the student’s thesis. The program is open to individuals who are currently pursuing a PhD in a relevant field. Students who currently have limited access to computational astrophysics resources and mentorship are especially encouraged to apply. 

• Candidates must first complete the stage 1 application using this Google Form by 11:59 pm EST on March 13, 2026. The candidate selects one or more potential mentors. If a specified mentor(s) wishes to proceed with a formal proposal, they will contact the candidate by March 20, 2026. 


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  Please note that the prospective mentor(s) must approve of the candidate’s possible participation in the program and commit to serving as mentor in order for the candidate’s application to be considered. The proposed mentor(s) must be specified on the application. 

  
  


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  If the potential mentor(s) approves, the applicant must submit a formal application by 11:59 pm EST on April 17, 2026 via Interfolio.

  
  

Mentors who are full-time CCA staff (indicated on the mentor list) will be prioritized: on average, 70-80% of offers will be made to students working with full-time staff. For further details about the program and a full list of mentors’ potential projects and descriptions of broad research interests, please visit: https://www.simonsfoundation.org/grant/flatiron-institute-center-for-computational-astrophysics-pre-doctoral-program/

This position will be based on-site (in-person) at the Foundation’s offices in New York City.

Education

• Currently enrolled in a Ph.D. program in a field relevant to the proposed research

Experience

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  At least 1-2 years of advanced coursework in a relevant field

  
  


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  Demonstrated understanding of basic research skills. Please note that extensive research experience is not required for this position. 

  
  

Related Skills and Other Requirements

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  Some basic technical skills (e.g. basic Linux, some experience with Python or similar)

  
  


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  Technical and scientific curiosity

  
  


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  Professional communication skills

  
  

REQUIRED APPLICATION MATERIALS: These materials should only be submitted in Interfolio if candidate is selected in Stage 1 of process

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  CV and publication list

  
  


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  Description of previous research experience (not to exceed two (2) pages, including figures; references can be on a separate page)

  
  


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  Research proposal of not more than two (2) pages (including figures; references can be on a separate page) outlining planned work at CCA

  
  


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  Two (2) letters of recommendation submitted confidentially by the letter writers via Interfolio. One letter must be from the applicant’s PhD supervisor and must explicitly approve the applicant’s possible participation in the Pre-Doctoral Program.

  
  

Deadline

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  Stage 1 applications (Stage 1 applications should be submitted via this Google Form) must be submitted no later than 11:59pm EST on March 13, 2026

  
  


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  Stage 2 applications (Stage 2 applications should be submitted via Interfolio) must be submitted no later than 11:59 pm EST on April 17, 2026.

  
  

Session Dates: 

• (Fall 2026) September 8, 2026 through January 15, 2027


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  (Spring 2027) January 19, 2027 through May 21, 2027

  
  

COMPENSATION AND BENEFITS

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  The full-time annualized compensation for this position is $60,000, which will be prorated for the :4.5 month term.

  
  


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  This position is eligible for medical benefits only.

  
  

Our Commitment to Expanding Pathways to Science & Opportunities for All:

Many of the greatest ideas and discoveries come from a diverse mix of minds, backgrounds, and experiences. The Simons Foundation is committed to advancing basic science and mathematics to benefit humankind and expand our collective understanding of our world. As part of our mission, we support partners, programs, and initiatives that seek to broaden the scientific community and open pathways to science and mathematics careers.

The Simons Foundation provides equal opportunities to all applicants without regard to race, religion, color, age, sex, pregnancy, national origin, sexual orientation, gender identity, genetic disposition, neurodiversity, disability, veteran status, or any other protected category under federal, state, and local law