Faculty Positions in Exoplanets at Shanghai Astronomical Observatory

Shanghai Astronomical Observatory (SHAO) is actively seeking qualified candidates to fill multiple faculty positions in the field of exoplanets and related techniques. We are inviting applications from exceptional theorists, observers, data scientists, and technologists specializing in planetary sciences, including but not limited to exoplanets, asteroseismology, stellar activities, time domain sciences, the application of artificial intelligence in astronomical data, and astronomical instrumentation. Our institution boasts a diverse team comprising Chinese and international astronomers, astrophysicists, and technical staff, including over 50 faculty members, 30 technical engineering staff, 40 postdoctoral researchers, and 100 PhD students. Further details can be found at http://astro-en.shao.cas.cn and http://optical.shao.cas.cn/en .

SHAO is currently establishing an exoplanet program and has been at the forefront of several major exoplanet research initiatives. These include the development of the Earth 2.0 (ET) space mission, slated for launch in 2027, aimed at significantly expanding the scope of exoplanet demographics. This mission will focus on the discovery of habitable Earth-like planets orbiting solar-type stars, as well as free-floating low-mass planets. Additionally, we are spearheading the development of an optical wide-field telescope array in Antarctica, designed to facilitate the search for habitable Earth-sized planets around M dwarfs. These instruments will also contribute to the study of asteroseismology, blackhole science, and transient events. Over the long term, we are at the forefront of developing the next generation of mini-spectrographs for space missions, leveraging innovative optical/near-infrared waveguide devices. The ET project has transitioned into the phase-B stage, including detailed mission analysis, the development of telescope prototypes, and key technologies. As an integral part of the Chinese Academy of Sciences, SHAO offers a vibrant research environment and access to state-of-the-art facilities such as LAMOST and FAST. Moreover, our institute possesses its own dedicated facilities, including the 65-m Tianma radio telescope and advanced computational resources. SHAO is deeply involved in the SKA project and the CSST project as well.

Applicants should hold a Ph.D. degree and a demonstrated research record in exoplanets or relevant fields, with a strong commitment to contributing to graduate student mentoring (teaching commitment is not required). Researchers from all nationalities are encouraged to apply. The salary and start-up grant will be highly competitive. Interested applicants are requested to submit a cover letter, a curriculum vitae, a list of publications, and a research statement outlining their qualifications, previous research, and future research plans. Additionally, applicants should arrange for three reference letters to be sent directly to Prof. Jian Ge at [email protected] .

To allow full consideration, all application materials should be received by January 15, 2024.  Applications will be reviewed until the positions are filled, and the start date is flexible.