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BHEX Postdoctoral Research Fellow: Black Hole Explorer (BHEX)

Closes:

419

School

Faculty of Arts and Sciences

Department/Area

Black Hole Initiative

Position Description

Applications are invited for one or more Postdoctoral Research Fellowships in the Black Hole Initiative (BHI) at Harvard University. Fellows will pursue research on theory, simulations, instrumentation, or mission design and development related to the Black Hole Explorer (BHEX) mission. BHEX is a proposed space-based observatory designed to enable transformational horizon-scale studies of black holes and their relativistic jets. The fellow will work under the supervision of Michael Johnson (BHEX Principal Investigator) and Peter Galison (BHEX Science Team Lead).

The successful candidates will be embedded within the interdisciplinary research environment of the Black Hole Initiative, with the opportunity to interact and collaborate with researchers across astronomy, physics, engineering, and the history and philosophy of science, while advancing the scientific and technical foundations of BHEX.

The nominal starting date for BHEX fellows is September 1, 2027. Applications should be submitted electronically by 5:00pm EST, November 11, 2026, but applications will be considered ongoing, continuing until the positions are filled. Each appointment is expected to continue for three years, contingent on performance and funding. Resources for research expenses including publication charges, related conference travel, workshops, and computing resources will be available.

Further information about the BHI may be found at http://www.bhi.fas.harvard.edu; information about BHEX may be found at https://www.blackholeexplorer.org/.

Please direct any questions about the application process to Nicole Grenier:

nicole.grenier@cfa.harvard.edu.

Basic Qualifications

All the following online application materials are requested:

Uploaded forms in PDF (preferred) or plain text format:

  1. Curriculum Vitae
  2. Three Letters of reference
  3. Research Statement
  4. Publication list

Please note: Completion of the Ph.D. is required to begin a Postdoctoral Fellowship; successful candidates who have received their degree within three years of the effective start date of the fellowship must provide verification of their Ph.D.

Additional Qualifications

Additional qualifications

A Ph.D. in astronomy, physics, engineering, applied mathematics, computer science, or a closely related field is preferred. Candidates should demonstrate a strong record of research and expertise relevant to one or more aspects of BHEX, including black-hole theory, numerical simulation, interferometric data analysis, instrumentation, or space-mission design and development.

Special Instructions

Contact Information

Nicole Grenier

BHI Division Administrator

617-496-8956

Contact Email

nicole.grenier@cfa.harvard.edu

Salary Range

$70,000-$80,000: Pay offered to the selected candidate is dependent on factors such as years of experience, training or qualification, field of scholarship, and accomplishments in the field

Minimum Number of References Required

3

Maximum Number of References Allowed

4

Keywords

EEO/Non-Discrimination Commitment Statement

Harvard University is committed to equal opportunity and non-discrimination. We seek talent from all parts of society and the world, and we strive to ensure everyone at Harvard thrives. Our differences help our community advance Harvard’s academic purposes.

Harvard has an equal employment opportunity policy that outlines our commitment to prohibiting discrimination on the basis of race, ethnicity, color, national origin, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, veteran status, religion, disability, or any other characteristic protected by law or identified in the university’s non-discrimination policy. Harvard’s equal employment opportunity policy and non-discrimination policy help all community members participate fully in work and campus life free from harassment and discrimination.

Supplemental Questions

Required fields are indicated with an asterisk (*).


Applicant Documents

Required Documents

  1. Curriculum Vitae
  2. Statement of Research
  3. List of Publications

Optional Documents

  1. Cover Letter


Job details

Title
BHEX Postdoctoral Research Fellow: Black Hole Explorer (BHEX)
Employer
Harvard University
Location
Massachusetts Hall, Cambridge, MA 02138, USA
Published
Sep 18, 2026
Closes:
Nov 11, 2026
Job type
Full time, Academic / Faculty, Space Science
Field
Astrophysics

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Frequently Asked Questions

🛰️What is the BHEX mission and what will the postdoctoral fellow work on?

The Black Hole Explorer (BHEX) is a proposed space-based observatory designed for horizon-scale studies of black holes and relativistic jets. As a BHEX Postdoctoral Research Fellow, you will pursue research on theory, simulations, instrumentation, or mission design and development under the supervision of Michael Johnson and Peter Galison at the Black Hole Initiative (BHI). Explore related postdoctoral research jobs and black hole jets breakthrough research.

🎓What are the eligibility requirements and preferred qualifications?

A Ph.D. is required to begin the postdoctoral fellowship. Preferred fields include astronomy, physics, engineering, applied mathematics, computer science, or a closely related field. You should demonstrate a strong record of research and expertise in one or more areas of BHEX, such as black-hole theory, numerical simulation, interferometric data analysis, instrumentation, or space-mission design and development. Learn more about becoming a postdoctoral research fellow.

📝What application materials are required for the BHEX fellowship?

You must submit a Curriculum Vitae, three letters of reference, a research statement, and a publication list. Uploads in PDF or plain text format are requested. The system requires a minimum of 3 references and allows up to 4. A cover letter is optional. For guidance, see how to write a winning academic CV.

📅What is the application deadline and start date?

The application deadline is 5:00pm EST, November 11, 2026. Applications will be considered on an ongoing basis until the positions are filled. The nominal start date is September 1, 2027, and each appointment is expected to continue for three years, contingent on performance and funding. Check more postdoctoral fellow job guidance.

💰What salary and research resources are available?

The salary range is $70,000-$80,000, with pay dependent on experience, training, qualifications, field of scholarship, and accomplishments. Resources are available for research expenses, publication charges, conference travel, workshops, and computing resources. For advice, visit postdoctoral success tips.

🌌Where is the fellowship located and what is the research environment like?

The position is located at Massachusetts Hall, Cambridge, MA 02138, USA at Harvard University. Fellows are embedded in the Black Hole Initiative (BHI), an interdisciplinary environment with collaboration across astronomy, physics, engineering, and history and philosophy of science. See related black hole jet discovery at M87.

About the employer

Harvard University Jobs

Harvard University

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Harvard University offers a diverse range of job and work opportunities across various categories, reflecting its status as a leading academic and research institution. These opportunities cater to different skill sets, academic backgrounds, and career stages. Harvard University Academic Positions - click here . Harvard University Staff Jobs - click here . The main types of jobs and work opportunities at Harvard: 1. Faculty and Academic Positions Tenure-Track Faculty : These roles include assistant, associate, and full professors across Harvard’s schools (e.g., Faculty of Arts and Sciences, Harvard Medical School, Harvard Business School). Faculty engage in teaching, research, and service. Qualifications typically include a Ph.D. or equivalent terminal degree, a strong research portfolio, and teaching experience. Openings vary by department and school, with competitive hiring processes. Non-Tenure-Track Faculty : Includes lecturers, preceptors, and visiting professors. These roles focus primarily on teaching or short-term research projects and may require a Ph.D. or significant expertise in the field. Research Appointments : Postdoctoral fellowships, research associates, and scientists work on cutting-edge research in fields like medicine, engineering, humanities, and social sciences. These positions often require advanced degrees and are funded through grants or specific research programs. 2. Administrative and Professional Staff Administrative Roles : These include positions in academic administration (e.g., deans’ offices, registrar, admissions), student services, and program management. Examples include academic program coordinators, admissions officers, and financial aid advisors. These roles often require a bachelor’s or master’s degree and relevant experience. Professional Staff : Harvard employs professionals in areas like human resources, finance, communications, development (fundraising), and alumni relations. Examples include HR specialists, financial analysts, and marketing managers. These positions typically require specialized skills or certifications. Executive and Leadership Roles : Senior positions like directors, department heads, or executive administrators oversee operations in specific units or schools. These roles demand extensive experience and leadership skills. 3. Research and Laboratory Staff Research Support Staff : Includes lab managers, research technicians, and data analysts who support faculty and postdoctoral researchers in labs across disciplines like biology, chemistry, physics, and medicine. These roles often require technical skills, such as proficiency in lab equipment or data analysis software. Clinical Research Roles : At Harvard Medical School and affiliated hospitals, clinical research coordinators and specialists support medical and health-related studies. These positions may require certifications like Good Clinical Practice (GCP) training. 4. 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Faculty and staff also gain access to Harvard’s libraries, museums, and cultural events. Global Impact : Many roles, especially in research and public health, contribute to global advancements in knowledge and policy. Location : Most positions are based in Cambridge or Boston, Massachusetts, with some remote or hybrid options, particularly for administrative and IT roles. How to Find Opportunities Harvard Careers Portal : The primary resource for job listings is Harvard’s Human Resources website (hr.harvard.edu/jobs), which lists openings for faculty, staff, and temporary roles. School-Specific Listings : Each Harvard school (e.g., Harvard College, Harvard Law School) may post specialized positions on their websites. Networking and Referrals : Many academic and research roles are filled through professional networks or direct outreach to departments. X Platform : Searching for “Harvard University jobs” on X can reveal real-time discussions, job postings, or employee experiences, though these should be verified through official channels. Additional Notes Qualifications : Requirements vary widely. Faculty roles typically need advanced degrees, while support roles may prioritize experience or specific skills. Work Environment : Harvard emphasizes diversity, inclusion, and collaboration, with opportunities for professional growth and community engagement. Application Process : Most positions require an online application through Harvard’s careers portal, including a resume, cover letter, and sometimes additional materials like teaching statements or research portfolios.

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