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Assistant Researcher (Observational Cosmology)
Position overview
Application Window
Open date: August 19, 2026
Next review date: Wednesday, Sep 30, 2026 at 11:59pm (Pacific Time)
Apply by this date to ensure full consideration by the committee.
Final date: Wednesday, Sep 30, 2026 at 11:59pm (Pacific Time)
Applications will continue to be accepted until this date.
Position description
The Department of Physics & Astronomy at UCLA seeks applications for a full-time (100%) Assistant Researcher in the area of observational cosmology. Qualified candidates will have a Ph.D. in Astronomy or a related field and a demonstrated background in cosmology, strong gravitational lensing, and stellar dynamics. The position will involve utilizing strong lensing data from JWST and other observatories to determine the expansion history of the universe, the Hubble constant, and dark energy equation of state. Candidates should provide: a curriculum vita; a statement of research interests; a publication list; and complete a reference check authorization release form. The deadline for applications is September 30, 2026.
The posted UC salary scales set the minimum pay determined by rank and step at appointment. See Table 13B Represented Professional Research Series (ucop.edu).The salary range for this position is $96,700-$126,400.
Qualifications
- Ph.D. in Astronomy or a related field
- Demonstrated background in cosmology, strong gravitational lensing, and stellar dynamics
Application Requirements
Curriculum Vitae - Your most recently updated C.V.
Statement of Research Interests - Statement of Research Interests
Publication list - Your complete bibliography
Reference check authorization release form - Complete and upload the reference check authorization release form
Applicants will be asked to name references, and the applicant must request letters to complete their application.
Help contact: corinna@physics.ucla.edu
About UCLA
As a University employee, you will be required to comply with all applicable University policies and/or collective bargaining agreements, as may be amended from time to time. Federal, state, or local government directives may impose additional requirements.
The University of California is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, age, protected veteran status, or other protected status under state or federal law.
As a condition of employment, the finalist will be required to disclose if they are subject to any final administrative or judicial decisions within the last seven years determining that they committed any misconduct.
- “Misconduct” means any violation of the policies or laws governing conduct at the applicant’s previous place of employment, including, but not limited to, violations of policies or laws prohibiting sexual harassment, sexual assault, or other forms of harassment, discrimination, dishonesty, or unethical conduct, as defined by the employer.
- UC Sexual Violence and Sexual Harassment Policy
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