Postdoctoral Researcher in Physics

The Kenyon College Department of Physics is seeking a postdoctoral researcher to participate in the Laser Interferometer Gravitational-wave Observatory (LIGO) research group, with a focus on calibration of the LIGO detectors. This position requires a Ph.D. in physics or astronomy, and the position is ideal for a candidate who has already been involved in research in gravitational-wave physics and astronomy. The anticipated start date is in July 2025, but an earlier start date is also possible.

Responsibilities: The responsibilities for this position include assisting with the development of the next-generation calibration pipeline for the two LIGO interferometers located in Hanford, WA and Livingston, LA, further developing calibration infrastructure, such as monitoring of the low-latency calibration products, and assisting with on-site calibration tasks at the LIGO Hanford Observatory. The selected candidate will also receive a California Institute of Technology visiting research appointment in order to facilitate extended stays at the LIGO detectors as a participant in the LSC Fellows program. While on-site as an LSC Fellow, the selected candidate would be mentored by a LIGO Laboratory Senior Scientist.

Qualifications: A qualified candidate will possess (or anticipate by July 2025) a Ph.D. in physics or astronomy and must possess significant computational physics experience. Ideal candidates will have research expertise in gravitational-wave physics or astronomy and be familiar with ground-based gravitational wave detectors. Of particular interest will be candidates with detector characterization or calibration experience within the LIGO, Virgo, or KAGRA Collaborations.

Application Materials: To apply, candidates should visit the online application site found at https://employment.kenyon.edu. Interested candidates must submit a letter of interest, a resume or CV, unofficial transcript, and contact information for three professional references, including name, title and affiliation, phone number, and email address. References will be contacted only for candidates who advance into the final stages of the search process. All application materials must be submitted electronically through Kenyon's employment website.

Review of applications will begin December 15, 2024. The position will remain open until filled.

Please send any questions regarding this position to Madeline Wade (wadem@kenyon.edu)

Compensation and Benefits

In addition to an attractive salary, Kenyon offers benefits for employees and their family members. Kenyon offers health and dental insurance, TIAA/CREF retirement, and many other benefits, including provisions for a spouse, families, and domestic partners. For more information on benefits, please visit the Kenyon College Benefits webpage.

Kenyon College is an equal opportunity employer and applications from members of all underrepresented groups are encouraged. It is the College's policy to evaluate qualified applicants without regard to race, color, national origin, ancestry, sex, gender, gender identity, gender expression, sexual orientation, physical and/or mental disability, age, religion, medical condition, veteran status, marital status, or any other characteristic protected by institutional policy or state, local, or federal law. Kenyon College has a strong commitment to supporting diversity, equity and inclusion. Please visit our Diversity at Kenyon website.