Postdoctoral Researcher, Physics and Astronomy

Job Description:

The postdoctoral researcher will conduct experimental nuclear physics research focused on statistical nuclear physics, including measurements of nuclear level densities, gamma-ray strength functions, and related quantities using particle accelerator facilities and advanced detector systems. The researcher will be responsible for the full experimental workflow — from experimental design and data acquisition to sophisticated data analysis, including nuclear reaction modeling. The researcher will contribute to the preparation of manuscripts for peer-reviewed publication and present results at national and international conferences. Additional duties as assigned may include mentoring graduate and undergraduate students, assisting with laboratory operations, and contributing to proposal writing for external funding.

Primary Accountabilities:

1. Data Analysis & Interpretation — Perform rigorous analysis of experimental data using relevant software frameworks and nuclear reaction codes (e.g., TALYS, EMPIRE, Oslo Method software) and interpret results within the broader context of nuclear structure and reaction theory.

2. Experimental Research & Data Collection — Plan, prepare, and execute nuclear physics experiments measuring statistical nuclear properties (e.g., nuclear level densities, gamma-ray strength functions) at accelerator facilities, ensuring proper detector setup, calibration, and data acquisition.

3. Scholarly Output & Dissemination — Lead and contribute to the writing of peer-reviewed journal articles and present research findings at national and international conferences, maintaining a strong record of scientific productivity.

4. Collaboration & Project Coordination — Actively collaborate with internal research group members as well as external partners at national laboratories and universities, coordinating efforts to meet project milestones and deliverables within funded research programs.

5. Mentorship & Laboratory Operations — Assist in the training and day-to-day mentorship of graduate and undergraduate students in experimental techniques and data analysis and contribute to the safe operation of laboratory equipment and facilities.

About the Physics and Astronomy Department at OHIO
Located in Athens, Ohio, the astrophysics group in the Department of Physics and Astronomy includes experts in galaxy clustering analysis, gravitational lensing, galaxy clusters, and nuclear astrophysics (https://www.ohio.edu/cas/physastro/).

About Ohio University
Established in 1804, Ohio University is the oldest public university in the state of Ohio. Our total enrollment is over 28,000 students across the state and online. About 20,000 of those students are undergraduates studying at our residential campus in Athens—our quintessential college town that's nestled deep in the Appalachian foothills of beautiful Southeast Ohio. Our picturesque campus is located in the foothills of the Appalachian Mountains amidst scenic state and national parks, and is just 75 minutes southeast of Columbus, Ohio.

PhD in Physics, Nuclear Engineering, Nuclear Chemistry, or related fields

Salary is commensurate with experience and credentials and is accompanied by our generous university benefits such as tuition for self and dependents, a comprehensive insurance package (including but not limited to health, prescription, vision, dental, and life insurance), an excellent retirement plan including company contributions, parental leave, adoption reimbursement, and more. OHIO is also proud to offer wellness programs, on-site wellness facilities, and a generous employee assistance program. Additional Information is available at https://www.ohio.edu/hr/benefits/.