The Submillimeter Array (SMA), a collaborative project of the Smithsonian Astrophysical Observatory and the Academia Sinica Institute of Astronomy and Astrophysics (Taiwan), consists of eight movable 6 meter diameter antennas that together combine to make uniquely detailed images in the submillimeter part of the spectrum, through atmospheric windows that open up on the high, dry summit of Mauna Kea, Hawaii. With collecting area comparable to the largest single submillimeter telescopes and baselines up to 500 meters, the SMA is used to study a wide range of astrophysical phenomena, including Solar System bodies, protoplanetary disks, star forming regions, evolved star envelopes, supermassive black holes, nearby galaxies, and starbursts at cosmological distances. More information about the SMA for astronoomers can be found at the SMA Observer Center.

Applications are invited for SMA Postdoctoral Fellowships starting in fall 2008. These positions are aimed chiefly at research in submillimeter astronomy, and the successful candidates will propose and participate in science observations with the SMA. Applicants must have a recent Ph.D. in astronomy or a related field. Practical experience in millimeter or submillimeter wavelength astronomy, radio interferometry, instrumentation, or experience in any applicable branch of astrophysical theory is desirable. It is expected that the Fellows will be based at the Harvard-Smithsonian Center for Astrophysics in Cambridge, MA. However, candidates with a desire to be based at the SMA facility at the University of Hawaii, Hilo, are also encouraged to apply. For application instructions and a login to the application, please see the Application page. Online applications are due by December 15, 2007.

The Smithsonian Astrophysical Observatory is an Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action Employer where all qualified applicants receive consideration for employment without regard to race, creed, color, sex or national origin.