Postdoctoral Research Positions LIGO Laboratory

The Laser Interferometer Gravitational-Wave Observatory (LIGO) has as its goal the development of gravitational wave physics and astronomy. The LIGO Laboratory is managed by Caltech and MIT, and is funded by the National Science Foundation. It operates observatory sites equipped with laser interferometric detectors at Hanford, Washington and Livingston, Louisiana. The initial LIGO detectors have exceeded their design sensitivity and data sets spanning over three years of coincident operation have been collected. Analysis is ongoing, with extensive participation by the LIGO Scientific Collaboration (LSC). A major upgrade (Advanced LIGO) is almost complete which will increase the sensitivity of the detectors by tenfold. In addition, an R&D program supports the development of enhancements to the detectors as well as future capabilities.

The LIGO Laboratory anticipates having one or possibly more postdoctoral research positions at one or more of the LIGO sites -- Caltech, MIT and at the two LIGO observatories beginning in fall 2014, pending availability of funds. Hires will be made based on the availability of funding. Successful applicants will be involved in the operation of LIGO itself, analysis of data, both for diagnostic purposes and astrophysics searches, as well as the R&D program for future detector improvements. We seek candidates across a broad range of disciplines. Expertise related to astrophysics, modeling, data analysis, electronics, laser and quantum optics, vibration isolation and control systems is desirable. Most importantly, candidates should be broadly trained physicists, willing to learn new experimental and analytical techniques, and ready to share in the excitement of building, operating and observing with a gravitational-wave observatory. Appointments at the post-doctoral level will initially be for one-year with the possibility of renewal for up to two subsequent years.

Applications for post-doctoral research positions with LIGO Laboratory should indicate which LIGO site (Caltech, MIT, Hanford, or Livingston) is preferred by the applicant. Applications should be sent to HR@ligo.caltech.edu (Electronic Portable Document Format (PDF) submittals are preferred).

Applications should include curriculum vitae, list of publications (with refereed articles noted), and the names, addresses, email addresses and telephone numbers of three or more references. Applicants should request that three or more letters of recommendations be sent directly to HR@ligo.caltech.edu (Electronic Portable Document Format (PDF) submittals are preferred). Consideration of applications will begin December 1, 2013 and will continue until all positions have been filled.