Assistant Research Professor - Instrument Scientist

The Department of Astronomy and Astrophysics of The Pennsylvania State University has an opening for an Assistant Research Professor to work as an Instrument Scientist for the Neil Gehrels Swift Observatory.

Education and Experience:

A PhD in Physics, Astronomy, or a closely related field is required. The position will entail working to help maintain the operations of Swift’s X-ray Telescope (XRT) or UV/Optical Telescope (UVOT). In addition, the successful applicant would be expected to pursue a broad range of science topics, focused on, but not limited to, analysis and publication of science results from Swift observations.

Salary will be commensurate with experience. Previous experience with Swift data analysis and X-ray instrumentation is desirable. In addition, experience with telescope operations, software development, particularly utilizing the Python language, will also be desirable.

Penn State is the lead institution for the ACIS instrument on Chandra and for the X-ray Telescope on the Neil Gehrels Swift Observatory. The successful applicant will also have access to other Penn State facilities, including the Hobby-Eberly telescope. Penn State is also a lead institution in the detection of compact binary mergers with LIGO.

Additional Information:

Applications must be submitted electronically and should include a single PDF file containing a CV, publications list, and statement of research interests. In addition, please request three reference letters be sent to [email protected]. Applications will be reviewed beginning on December 15, 2022 and will be accepted until the position is filled.

This is a limited term appointment funded for one year from date of hire with the possibility of renewal.

Interested candidates are to apply directly online at:

https://psu.wd1.myworkdayjobs.com/PSU_Academic/job/Penn-State-University-Park/Assistant-Research-Professor---Instrument-Scientist_REQ_0000037786-1

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