Combine cosmic research and observatory operations — ALMA Postdoctoral Fellowship

The Joint ALMA Observatory invites applicants to a three-year postdoctoral fellowship in its science operations group in Santiago, Chile. Fellows dedicate 50% of their time to personal scientific research, focused on any area related to ALMA, and the remaining 50% to supporting observatory operations and science activities. Duties include acting as Astronomer on Duty, with work at the Operations Support Facility and Santiago control-room extension; technical contributions may include data processing, review, software testing and capability development. A PhD in Astronomy, Astrophysics or a related field, strong research record, English fluency and collaborative communication skills are required. Applications are due 30 October 2026 at noon Chile time.

• A research appointment that pairs protected independent-research time with operational responsibility at a major radio observatory.
• Three years;50% personal research/50% operations;90% Santiago central office/10% Operations Support Facility at 2,900 m; medical clearance required.

The announcement states the employing partner (ESO, AUI/NRAO or NAOJ) offers a competitive salary and comprehensive social benefits, relocation financial support for families, and, if applicable, expatriation and other allowances. It does not state a salary or allowance amount. Successful candidate is anticipated to receive a contract offer from NAOJ; contractual terms are defined by the selected employer.

• Submit an English-language application with cover letter, CV including publication record, research interests/plans statement, and arrange three reference letters to arrive by the deadline. Choose a partner recruitment route: ESO ; NRAO ; or NAOJ 4 k 0 YQ 1 wdX . The ESO Apply now link also opens the ESO Recruitment Portal application form . Partner portals are distinct; the vacancy explicitly directs candidates to one of the three ALMA Executive portals and states NAOJ is anticipated to make the successful candidate’s offer. Do not assume an application on one portal submits to the others.

• Application deadline 30 October 2026 at 12:00 Chile local time (America/Santiago). Expected start approximately September 2027, flexible.
• Deadline is officially specified as 30 October 2026, 12 pm Chile time; no separate date/time representation should be inferred. Start expected approximately September 2027, with earlier or later possible. HAME is required due to observatory-site work. Salary amounts and detailed conditions vary by employer and are not quantified on the notice. Partner portals are distinct; the notice does not specify an exactly-one-application rule.

Confirm current terms with the issuer before applying.