Open positions for post-doctoral or CDD positions are advertised on this page.
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Postdoctoral Research Position(s) in Galaxy Evolution & Bar Dynamics
Postdoctoral Research Position(s) in Galaxy Evolution & Bar Dynamics Aix-Marseille
University / Laboratoire d’Astrophysique de Marseille (LAM) Duration: 2 Years (with
potential extension for a 3rd year)
Position Overview
Aix-Marseille University invites applications for one or more 2+1 year postdoctoral researchers
to lead innovative studies on galaxy structural evolution, disk assembly, and bar dynamics
across cosmic time.
Supervision & Research Environment
The position will be supervised by Dr. Sheth within a dedicated co-supervision model involving
at least one permanent researcher at LAM. This dual-mentor structure ensures continuous
scientific guidance, strong local collaboration, and seamless integration into the Marseille
astrophysics community.
We are seeking ambitious, visionary researchers who excel at creative, big-picture thinking and
synthetic reasoning to produce high-impact, field-defining papers rather than incremental
science. The ideal candidate will “connect the dots” between the nearby universe and the
high-redshift universe, combining local and high-z galaxy evolution data to explore the core
physics of disk assembly, the evolution of bar fractions, and the structural and secular drivers
shaping galaxies throughout cosmic time.
Key Responsibilities & Data Focus
● Primary Science Goals: Apply critical thinking and rigorous reasoning to integrate
multi-wavelength datasets, investigating the core physics of disk assembly, quantifying
bar fraction evolution across redshift, evaluating the impact of bar-driven internal secular
processes from z~0 to the high-z universe, and uncovering the drivers shaping galaxies
through cosmic time.
● Datasets & Resources: The project will extensively leverage multi-wavelength and
structural survey archives, specifically focusing on COSMOS, S4G and S4G+ datasets,
integrated with space and ground-based imaging (HST/JWST).
● Collaborative Leadership & Mentorship: Demonstrate proactive collaborative
leadership by driving joint research initiatives, fostering interdisciplinary connections
across LAM and Aix-Marseille University, and actively mentoring students and junior
group members.
● Theoretical Context: Ability to interpret observational results within current theoretical
and simulation-based frameworks to deepen our understanding of galaxy evolution.
Qualifications & Candidate Profile● Required: Ph.D. in Astronomy, Astrophysics, or a closely related field completed prior to
the start date.
● Big-Picture Vision: A strong desire to tackle transformative astrophysical questions and
connect local galactic physics with early-universe disk assembly.
● Self-Starter Drive: Highly self-motivated, proactive, and capable of driving independent
projects from concept to high-impact publication.
● Technical Proficiency: Experience handling large-scale astronomical survey data (S4G
S4G+, COSMOS, or similar) and automated structural/morphological analysis tools.
● Collaborative Mindset: Strong interpersonal skills to integrate into the Marseille
research environment and work effectively with co-supervisors and local faculty.
● Collaborative Leadership: Proven ability to foster interdisciplinary collaboration, lead
joint initiatives, and mentor students and junior team members.
● Synthetic & Creative Reasoning: Demonstrated knack for connecting disparate
datasets and theoretical frameworks to formulate novel, big-picture hypotheses in galaxy
evolution.
Application Instructions & Process
Please submit the following application materials in one email with the title: “Postdoctoral
Fellowship Application” to kartik.sheth@lam.fr no later than October 1, 2026.
1. Cover Letter (1 page): Detailing why you specifically want to join Aix-Marseille
University and the Laboratoire d’ Astrophysique du Marseille (LAM) and what you hope
to accomplish during the 2+1 year appointment.
2. Curriculum Vitae & Publication List: Highlighting key publications and leadership
roles.
3. Research Statement (max 3 pages): Outlining the exact research projects and physics
questions you plan to pursue.
4. References: Names and contact information for 3 professional references (letters are
not required at initial application).
Selection Process: Shortlisted candidates will be invited for an interview. Please note that
administrative and visa processing hurdles may take up to two months, so the anticipated start
date will be November 1, 2026, or later.
