Postdoctoral Research Associate in Theoretical and Computational Astrophysics – UNC-Chapel Hill (Physics & Astronomy Department)

📅 Application Deadline: December 15, 2025
📍 Location: Chapel Hill, North Carolina, USA
🏛️ Institution: University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill – Department of Physics & Astronomy
💼 Position Type: Full-Time, Postdoctoral Scholar (12-Month Appointment)
💰 Salary: Competitive, with full benefits and relocation support

🌎 Join One of America’s Top Research Universities

The University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill (UNC-Chapel Hill) is a global leader in higher education, research innovation, and public service. Consistently ranked among the top 10 U.S. public universities, Carolina stands out for its interdisciplinary excellence and groundbreaking research.

UNC’s postdoctoral researchers are the driving force behind many of its most innovative scientific discoveries. Postdocs at Carolina benefit from a collaborative academic environment, comprehensive medical and vision coverage, paid leave, and a wide range of professional development resources.

Located in the vibrant and scenic college town of Chapel Hill, this position offers an exceptional quality of life, with a blend of academic prestige, cultural richness, and research opportunity.

🔭 About the Department of Physics & Astronomy

The Department of Physics and Astronomy at UNC-Chapel Hill is home to some of the world’s leading researchers in astrophysics, cosmology, and quantum science. The department’s mission spans from training undergraduates to conducting frontier research on the smallest particles and the largest cosmic structures.

Physics students and faculty at UNC explore the fundamental forces that shape the universe—from particle interactions to the dynamics of galaxies. The department’s facilities include state-of-the-art laboratories, high-performance computing systems, and partnerships with global observatories and research centers.

💫 Position Overview

The Department of Physics and Astronomy is seeking a Postdoctoral Research Associate to work with Prof. Carl Rodriguez on cutting-edge research in theoretical and computational astrophysics.

This position focuses on exploring the mysteries of the universe through simulations, modeling, and theoretical insights into gravitational waves, stellar evolution, and galactic dynamics.

The postdoc will collaborate with leading scientists and contribute to publications, conferences, and multi-institutional research projects.

🧩 Research Focus Areas

The successful candidate will work in one or more of the following domains:

• Gravitational-wave and compact-object astrophysics
• Stellar and galactic dynamics
• Binary stellar evolution
• Near-field cosmology and stellar streams

Candidates with experience in theoretical modeling, computational astrophysics, or related disciplines are highly encouraged to apply.

🧠 Position Details

• Appointment Duration: 12 months, renewable up to 3 years based on performance
• Start Date: Negotiable (expected in early 2026)
• Benefits: Health insurance, relocation support, and research funds for computational tools and travel
• Workload: Full-time (40 hours per week)

🎓 Required Qualifications

• Ph.D. in Physics, Astronomy, or a related field
• Demonstrated research experience or strong interest in astrophysics, stellar dynamics, cosmology, or gravitational-wave research

🌟 Preferred Skills and Experience

• Experience mentoring undergraduate or graduate students
• Expertise in high-performance computing and scientific programming (C/C++, Python, Fortran)
• Familiarity with computational astrophysics codes such as:
  • NBODY6 or PeTar (stellar dynamics)
  • MESA (stellar evolution)
  • COSMIC or COMPASS (population synthesis)
• Strong analytical and communication skills
• Collaborative mindset and ability to work in interdisciplinary teams

📑 How to Apply

Interested applicants should submit their materials online at (See below).

Required Documents:

1. Curriculum Vitae / Résumé
2. Research Statement
3. List of References

Optional: Cover Letter

📩 Department Contact:
Prof. Carl Rodriguez
📧 Carl.Rodriguez@unc.edu

For questions about postdoctoral services and benefits, contact the Office of Postdoctoral Affairs at:
📞 (919) 962-9982
📧 opahr@unc.edu

🌈 Equal Opportunity Commitment

The University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill is an Equal Opportunity Employer that values diversity, inclusion, and accessibility. All qualified applicants — including women, minorities, veterans, and individuals with disabilities — are encouraged to apply.

🧭 Why This Opportunity Matters

This postdoctoral position offers the chance to:

• Conduct high-impact astrophysics research at one of the world’s top universities
• Collaborate with internationally recognized scientists
• Access world-class facilities and computing resources
• Enjoy the vibrant culture and beauty of Chapel Hill, North Carolina

Whether you’re passionate about gravitational waves, galaxy formation, or computational modeling, this is an opportunity to push the boundaries of astrophysical discovery.

🔗 Apply Now to Join UNC’s Stellar Research Community

Deadline: December 15, 2025
👉Apply Now: https://unc.peopleadmin.com/login