The University of Iowa Howes Plasma Theory group in the Department of Physics and Astronomy is seeking candidates for a postdoctoral position working on studying fundamental processes of particle energization in space and astrophysical plasmas. Specific processes to be investigated include kinetic plasma turbulence, collisionless shocks, collisonless magnetic reconnection, and kinetic instabilities. Analytical theory, kinetic numerical simulations, and spacecraft observations will be used to identify the mechanisms of particle energization and to quantify the rate of change of kinetic energy density of the particles. The candidate will learn the kinetic plasma theory and application of the field-particle correlation technique using electromagnetic field and particle velocity distribution measurements from numerical simulations or spacecraft observations. It is expected that the postdoctoral research scholar will produce numerous first-author publications and will help to oversee graduate students in the Howes Plasma Theory group. The candidate will present results at national and international scientific conferences, and will help with proposal preparation for future investigations.

Application Information

• Submit applications online through the Jobs@UIOWA website. Required application materials include a CV, letter of reference, and a document containing the names and contact information of two (2) professional references.


• Candidates should instruct references to email letters directly to Professor Howes at gregory-howes@uiowa.edu.

• The successful applicant must have a PhD in Physics or a closely related field, awarded by the position start date. If the candidate can demonstrate that PhD degree requirements have been met, but that the degree will not be officially conferred until a later date (e.g., May 2025), the applicant may be considered to meet this requirement.

• Applicants should have a strong record of interest or experience in kinetic plasma physics and the exploration of plasma heating and particle acceleration by fundamental processes such as collisonless magnetic reconnection, kinetic plasma turbulence, collisionless shocks, or kinetic instabilities.

• Research experience in kinetic plasma physics using kinetic numerical simulations, spacecraft observations, or laboratory experiments.