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Title Postdoctoral Research Positions in the Institute for Theory and Computation (ITC)

School Faculty of Arts and Sciences

Department/Area Harvard College Observatory/Center for Astrophysics

Position Description

Applications are invited for a Postdoctoral Research Fellow position in the Institute for Theory and Computation ( ITC ) at the Harvard-Smithsonian Center for Astrophysics. One of the primary objectives of the ITC is to integrate conceptual theory with computational modeling. We are, therefore, interested in candidates working in any field related to theoretical and/or numerical astrophysics. The successful candidate will have access to our new computing facilities and will have the opportunity to interact and work with researchers in both the Harvard College Observatory ( HCO ) and the Smithsonian Astrophysical Observatory ( SAO ).

We welcome applicants, who as a component of their research statement, discuss their experience in mentoring, outreach, and teaching.

Current senior members of the ITC include Harvard faculty Charles Alcock, Xingang Chen, Charlie Conroy, Liam Connor, Daniel Eisenstein, Doug Finkbeiner, Lars Hernquist, Alyssa Goodman, John Johnson, Lisa Kewley (CfA Director), John Kovac, Avi Loeb ( ITC Director), Morgan MacLeod, Ramesh Narayan, Karin Oberg, Dimitar Sasselov, Irwin Shapiro, Chris Stubbs, and Ashley Villar; as well as SAO scientists Rosanne Di Stefano, Matt Holman, Eric Keto, Fabio, Pacucci, Mark Reid, Alexey Vikhlinin, and Catherine Zucker.

The nominal starting date is September 1, 2026, but an earlier appointment is possible. The position is for one year, renewable for a second and third year, contingent on performance and funding.

The ITC Fellows pay rate is based on the current NASA NHFP guidelines.

In order to be considered for this position, all applications must be complete (including letters of reference) by November 1, 2025

Final selection will be made in early December 2025.

Basic Qualifications

Candidates must have completed their Ph.D. degree by the appointment start date; demonstrate outstanding research to the level of the position; and have the ability to identify and pursue research problems independently while working well in an interactive and dynamic setting.

Additional Qualifications

Applicants should submit a cover letter, CV, list of publications, and a research proposal explaining research interests (no page limit). Please also provide contact information for three references.

The CfA hosts a strong research program in astrophysics and provides a stimulating environment.

Special Instructions

Letters of reference should be submitted by three “referees” and must be received by the application deadline of November 1, 2025, 18:00 EST .

Contact Information

ITC Division Administrator

Contact Email [email protected]

Salary Range

$84,750

Minimum Number of References Required 3

Maximum Number of References Allowed 3

Keywords

EEO/Non-Discrimination Commitment Statement

Harvard University is committed to equal opportunity and non-discrimination. We seek talent from all parts of society and the world, and we strive to ensure everyone at Harvard thrives. Our differences help our community advance Harvard’s academic purposes.

Harvard has an equal employment opportunity (https://hr.harvard.edu/sites/g/files/omnuum6281/files/2025-04/reaffirmation\_statement.pdf) policy that outlines our commitment to prohibiting discrimination on the basis of race, ethnicity, color, national origin, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, veteran status, religion, disability, or any other characteristic protected by law or identified in the university’s non-discrimination policy (https://provost.harvard.edu/sites/g/files/omnuum3356/files/2025-07/non-discrimination\_and\_anti-bullying\_policies.pdf) . Harvard’s equal employment opportunity policy and non-discrimination policy help all community members participate fully in work and campus life free from harassment and discrimination.

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