Planetary Research Jobs

The Institute of Astronomy at the Bulgarian Academy of Sciences invites applications for two postdoctoral researcher positions to link the orbital and surface evolution of cometary bodies. These positions are part of the CLIC project, funded by the PROMYS Swiss–Bulgarian Research Programme. The project aims to build a comprehensive model of the physical changes experienced by comet nuclei from their formation to their eventual dormancy or disruption.

We are seeking researchers with a strong foundation in computational or observational astrophysics who can work effectively within a multidisciplinary team. Because this role involves a high degree of independence, you will need to manage your own day-to-day research while maintaining proactive communication with the rest of the group. We expect candidates to connect their specific modeling or photometric results to the broader evolutionary questions of the CLIC project. While prior experience in small-body research is highly advantageous, we welcome applications from adaptable astrophysicists eager to transition into cometary science.

Position 1: Dynamical and Thermophysical Modeling

Project Focus: Coupling orbital dynamics and thermophysical simulations to investigate cometary surface evolution. The researcher will model the evolutionary histories of comets and Centaurs at a population level. By linking these dynamical tracks to observed spectrophotometric properties (such as phase function slopes, albedos, and surface colors), the project aims to verify existing surface erosion hypotheses and constrain the timescales of physical evolution.

Position 2: Photometry and Spectrophotometric Modeling

Project Focus: Investigating the mechanisms driving surface color changes in Jupiter Family Comets and dormant comets. The researcher will analyze multi-filter photometric data from early LSST observations and archival datasets to test correlations between surface color and perihelion distance. The work also includes measuring phase reddening, analyzing multi-color opposition effects, and using spectrophotometric models to place constraints on surface material properties (such as particle size and the presence of surface ice).

Candidate Profile

1. A PhD in Astrophysics, Planetary Science, Physics, or a closely related discipline (completed prior to the start date).
2. Demonstrated ability to carry out research independently and communicate proactively within a collaborative group.
3. For Position 1: Experience with orbital dynamics, N-body simulations, and/or thermophysical modeling.
4. For Position 2: Experience with optical photometry (including survey data and absolute calibration) and/or spectrophotometric modeling of planetary surfaces.
5. Proficiency in scientific programming (e.g., Python, C++, or Fortran).
6. A solid track record of peer-reviewed publications.
7. Fluency in written and spoken English.
8. A proactive mindset, comfortable working independently while contributing to a collaborative international group.

What We Offer

1. An initial 2-year postdoctoral contract (with potential for extension) offering compensation at the upper tier of academic rates for researchers in Bulgaria.
2. Integration into a strong, interdisciplinary network of international experts in cometary and small-body science, providing excellent opportunities for collaborative research and career development.
3. Dedicated funding for travel to international conferences, collaboration meetings, and research visits with project partners in Switzerland and internationally.
4. Access to high-performance computing resources and observational facilities, including the National Astronomical Observatory Rozhen.

Application Process

Please submit your application as a single PDF file to Dr. Rosita Kokotanekova at rkokotanekova [at] astro.bas.bg. The application should include:

1. A cover letter describing your research background, technical skills, and how they align with the project goals (maximum 2 pages). Please explicitly state whether you are applying for Position 1, Position 2, or both.
2. A brief statement of research interests and relevant experience (1–2 pages).
3. A curriculum vitae including a complete list of publications.
4. Contact details for two academic referees (to be included within the PDF).

Important: In addition to the PDF application, please arrange for your referees to send their recommendation letters directly to Dr. Rosita Kokotanekova at rkokotanekova [at] astro.bas.bg by the deadline.

Deadline: Applications will be evaluated on a rolling basis. Complete applications (including recommendation letters) received by 31 October 2026 will receive full consideration.

For informal inquiries regarding the positions and the project scope, please contact Dr. Rosita Kokotanekova at rkokotanekova [at] astro.bas.bg.