The 2023 - 2024 Jansky Fellowship Program for Engineers supports postdoctoral research in radio astronomy instrumentation at NRAO or partner U.S. universities.
Funder: National Radio Astronomy Observatory
Due Dates: Rolling (applications accepted at any time)
Funding Amounts: $70,500/year salary | Up to $17,000/year research/travel | Initial 2-year appointment, possible 3rd year
Summary: Supports postdoctoral engineers advancing radio astronomy instrumentation at NRAO’s Central Development Laboratory or via US university collaborations.
Key Information: Fellows spend up to 75% on self-directed research; split/non-resident US university appointments possible.
The Jansky Fellowship Program for Engineers, offered by the National Radio Astronomy Observatory (NRAO), is designed for early-career postdoctoral engineers whose research aligns with the Observatory’s mission to advance radio astronomy through innovation in instrumentation. Fellows are typically based at the Central Development Laboratory (CDL) in Charlottesville, VA, but split or non-resident appointments at U.S. universities are possible, fostering collaboration across institutions. The program provides opportunities to work on state-of-the-art technologies—such as digital signal processing, low noise amplifiers, superconducting electronics, and advanced receiver architectures—while engaging with leading engineering teams. Fellows are encouraged to pursue independent research (up to 75% of their time) and collaborate on instrumentation development, outreach, and broader impact activities, helping to shape the future of radio astronomy.