Introduction to Westlake University

Founded in February 2018, Westlake University is a forward-thinking institution in China, aspiring to lead in cutting-edge scientific research and transform higher education. Located in the picturesque city of Hangzhou, the university benefits from both private and public-sector support. Over the next decade, a new Department of Astronomy is being established within the School of Science, promoting an inclusive, international, and intellectually stimulating academic environment. English is the working language of the university; nearly all courses are taught in English.

Additional information about the Department of Astronomy can be found at: https://astro.westlake.edu.cn/en.

Job Description

The Department of Astronomy at Westlake University invites applications to several postdoctoral positions:

• Two postdoc positions in the research group of Gregory Green: Modeling the dynamics and interstellar medium of the Milky Way, respectively, using existing and upcoming large astrometric, spectroscopic and photometric surveys across the ultraviolet, optical and infrared. Postdocs will also be able to explore independent research directions related to the overall focus of the group. Strong programming skills and familiarity with statistical inference / machine learning are expected.

• Two postdoc positions in the research group of Yong Shi: postdocs will work on (1) the peculiar velocity measurements of galaxies in the local universe by combining ground-based/space-based images and DESI spectra, (2) the Dwarf Galaxy Integral Survey (DGIS; https://www.dgisteam.com/) and other IFU data of massive galaxies. Successful candidates will dedicate 70% of their effort to pursuing the above research topics, with the remaining 30% devoted to their independent scientific research.

• Two postdoc positions in the research group of Weicheng Zang: Successful candidates will work on: (1) detecting and characterizing microlensing exoplanets using KMTNet, DECam, Keck, LCOGT, CFHT and other facilities; (2) science exploitation of the DREAMS survey, including variable stars, binary systems and asteroids; and (3) modeling and photometric pipeline development for the upcoming Earth 2.0 and Roman microlensing data. Prior microlensing experience is not required, and candidates with strengths in photometric data reduction and Keck adaptive optics are especially encouraged to apply.

• Three postdoc positions in theoretical astrophysics in the groups of Shigeru Ida and Shude Mao: Successful candidates can work on any of the following areas: (1) theoretical studies of the dynamics of exoplanet systems; (2) stellar evolutions of binary systems; (3) dynamics of galaxies; (4) strong gravitational lensing. Those with numerical simulation experience are especially encouraged to apply.

Compensation and Benefits

1. The Westlake Astronomy Department offers internationally competitive compensation packages, commensurate with candidates’ qualifications and experience. Applications for relevant projects and programs will be encouraged and supported.

2. The university provides housing subsidies, supplementary commercial insurance, an annual health check-up.

3. The university assists with enrolling children in childcare and school.

4. The university boasts comprehensive postdoctoral training, with programs including the Westlake University Outstanding Postdoctoral Fellows and Westlake Postdoctoral Fellowship for Women.

5. The Hangzhou municipal government provides additional benefits for postdocs.

Funding

1. Postdocs receive a living allowance and research funding from the Hangzhou municipal government.

2. Recipients of funding from the China Postdoctoral Science Foundation or the Zhejiang Province Selected Funding for Postdoctoral Research Projects are entitled to supplementary funding of the same amount from the Hangzhou municipal government.

3. Postdocs who work full-time in Hangzhou after completing their postdoctoral research qualify for an allowance of 400,000 RMB from the Hangzhou municipal government.

4. Eligible new university graduates holding a doctoral degree or equivalent who work full time in Hangzhou (including those who studied abroad and returned to China within 5 years of graduation as well as foreign talent) can apply to the Hangzhou municipal government for a living allowance of 100,000 RMB.

5. Postdocs recognized as high-level talent in Hangzhou enjoy corresponding preferential policies.

How to Apply

Applicants should hold a Ph.D. in physics, astronomy, or a related field. The application package must include a curriculum vitae (CV), a list of publications, and a research statement describing both past and planned research (3 pages, excluding the list of references). Applicants should indicate in their research statement which group(s) within the department they are interested in working in. Applications should be submitted electronically via Interfolio: http://apply.interfolio.com/177089. Additionally, applicants should arrange for at least three letters of recommendation to be sent through Interfolio by the application deadline.

Link to Online Application: http://apply.interfolio.com/177089

Publication Start Date: 2025 Nov 03

Application Deadline: 2025 Dec 31

Inquiries

Name: Ms. Shaozhi PAN

Email: astrojob@westlake.edu.cn