Introduction:
Applicants are invited to apply for a postgraduate associate (commonly referred to as a pre-doc or post-bac) position in the Department of Astronomy at Yale University, working with Professor Charles Bailyn.

Introduction of the School/Department:
The Yale Astronomy Department is a vibrant scientific community with many opportunities for scientific interaction within and across groups and subdisciplines. As members of the Yale Astronomy Department community, we will treat each other with respect, dignity, and professionalism, such that our day-to-day work is both productive and enjoyable. We embrace open communication and constructive discourse to cultivate a welcoming and collaborative community in which all voices are heard and respected. We believe this will lead to a supportive and respectful environment for everyone.

Overview of the Position:
The work will mainly be in Kline Tower, 219 Prospect Street in New Haven, Connecticut and the position is initially for one year, with the possibility of renewal for a second year, contingent on performance. The successful applicant will work in collaboration with the PI in reducing, analyzing, and modelling optical data of accreting black holes obtained with the SMARTS telescopes from 2003-2019. The PGA will meet one-on-one at least weekly with the PI, and most likely more often, to discuss both the current status of the work, and broader issues in astronomy. It is likely that the PGA will be a co-author on refereed publications that emerge from this work and will be given an opportunity to be a first author. Some time may be available by arrangement with the PI for other activities related to astronomy, for example as a teaching assistant, undergraduate mentor, or in public outreach. The start date for the position will be between July 1 and Sept 30, 2025, by mutual agreement. Questions should be directed to charles.bailyn@yale.edu.

Qualifications:
Applicants must have a B.S. or M.S. degree in astrophysics or a related field by the start date. Previous research experience in astronomical data analysis and/or astronomical modelling is required. Research interest and experience in accreting black holes is desirable.

Application Instructions:
Applicants should email a cover letter, and a brief (no more than 3 pages) description of previous research experience and career goals in pdf format to shawna.rodriguez@yale.edu. Applicants should include in their cover letter the names and contact information for three potential writers of letters of recommendation, although recommendation letters themselves are not required at this time. Applications will be considered starting on February 3, 2025 – late applications may be considered; please contact Prof. Bailyn before submitting an application after February 3, 2025.