Schmidt Observatory System Postdoctoral Fellows

The Astrophysics Center at Schmidt Sciences invites applications for the Schmidt Observatory System Postdoctoral Fellows program — a highly selective cohort of early-career scientists embedded within the development of the Schmidt Observatory System. The Schmidt Observatory System is a coordinated network of ground- and space-based observatories operating with integrated resources across a broad range of astrophysical investigations, with multiple facilities expected to be online in the next 2-3 years. This program is designed for scientists who want to work at the intersection of observatory design, system performance, and mission-shaping science. Fellows will contribute directly to the technical and scientific foundations of multiple observatories, influencing how these facilities are built, calibrated, and used by the scientific community.

Fellows will operate within a small, high-impact team working fluidly across multiple observatories, engaging directly with scientists, engineers, and leadership. Day-to-day work includes developing and evaluating system architectures, advancing calibration and analysis methodologies, and translating scientific goals into technical requirements and operational strategies. Fellows are expected to take ownership of key problem areas, producing both scientific results and enabling capabilities, with the opportunity to shape critical decisions at a stage when trade-offs remain open.

Postdoctoral Fellows will form the inaugural cohort of approximately five postdoctoral researchers embedded within the Schmidt Observatory System. This fixed-term fellowship follows a 2+1 model: a two-year appointment with a structured third-year renewal based on performance. Fellows will develop focused work plans in close collaboration with the Schmidt Observatory System team. These plans will be milestone-driven and delivery-focused, giving Fellows responsibility for defined problem areas while ensuring close alignment with evolving Observatory System needs. The role combines hands-on technical contribution, scientific analysis, and close collaboration with internal technical leadership and external partners. Fellows will have direct involvement in decisions that shape how the Observatory System matures from development toward science operations.