Employment

RESEARCH ASSOCIATE

Dr. John Nousek
SWIFT
2582 Gateway Drive
State College, PA 16801

The Department of Astronomy & Astrophysics of The Pennsylvania State University has an immediate opening to lead our Automation Initiative on the Swift Gamma-Ray Burst program. Swift ( http://swift.gsfc.nasa.gov) is a NASA MIDEX-class Explorer mission operating since November, 2004. We are seeking to develop improved automation for our mission planning software. The position will have the rank of Research Associate (equivalent to Assistant Professor), and requires a PhD in Physics, Astronomy, or a closely related field. Suitable candidates holding an MS, and experience in software and algorithm development will also be considered. Previous experience with space instrumentation, satellite operations, or astronomy data analysis is desirable. Due to US law, the successful applicant must provide proof of eligibility of employment under US ITAR regulations. (More information about ITAR qualification is available on request.) Initial appointment is for one year with renewal subject to continued funding by NASA. Applicants should submit a resume and list of three references to Dr. John Nousek, 2582 Gateway Drive, State College, PA 16801. (email: This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it ) Applications must be received by January 15, 2009, to receive full consideration. We encourage applications from individuals of diverse backgrounds.

Penn State is committed to affirmative action, equal opportunity and the diversity of its workforce.

 

Position /Title: Galaxy formation in the early Universe Institution: Pennsylvania State University

Submit Resumes To:
Prof. Yuexing Li
Department of Astronomy & Astrophysics
The Pennsylvania State University
525 Davey Lab
University Park, PA 16802

Email Submission Address: This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it
Email Inquiries: This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it

The closing date for application: 09/30/2009

Job Description:

Applications are invited for a postdoctoral research position in galaxy formation.
The successful candidate would work with Professor Yuexing Li and participate
in any aspects of the program: the formation and evolution of galaxies and quasars
in the early Universe with cosmological simulations; multi-wavelength properties of
these objects with radiative transfer calculations; and cosmic reionization history.
These projects involve both theoretical modelings and comparisons with observations.

The ideal candidate should have experience with numerical simulations or
radiative transfer processes. A Ph.D. in astrophysics or related areas is
required.

The position is available September 1, 2009 (negotiable). The review of
applications will begin on July 1, 2009, and the search will continue until the
position is filled. The appointment is for two years, renewable for a total of three years contingent upon continued funding.Please send a curriculum vitae with publication list, a statement of research
interests, and three letters of recommendation to
Prof. Yuexing Li at This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it .

Penn State is committed to affirmative action, equal opportunity and the diversity of its workforce.

 

RESEARCH ASSOCIATE

Swift Operations Scientist
Penn State University

The Department of Astronomy & Astrophysics of the Pennsylvania State University has an immediate opening on the Science Operations Team for the Swift Gamma-Ray Burst program. Swift (http://swift.gsfc.nasa.gov) is a NASA MIDEX-class Explorer mission operating since November, 2004. The successful candidate will serve as a science planner (responsible for daily observing plans), and an Observatory Duty Scientist (responsible for the observatory during scheduled shifts.) The applicant will have 50% of their time available to pursue scientific interests including collaborations with the rest of the Swift team. The position will have the rank of Research Associate (equivalent to Assistant Professor), and requires a PhD in Physics, Astronomy, or a closely related field. Suitable candidates holding an MS, and experience in astronomical space missions will also be considered. Previous experience with space instrumentation, satellite operations, or astronomy data analysis is desirable. Due to US law, the successful applicant must provide proof of eligibility of employment under US export regulations. (More information about export qualification is available on request.) Initial appointment is for one year with renewal subject to continued funding by NASA. Applicants should submit a resume and list of three references to Dr. John Nousek, 2582 Gateway Drive, State College, PA 16801. (email: This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it ) Applications must be received by February 1 to receive full consideration. We encourage applications from individuals of diverse backgrounds. Penn State is committed to affirmative action, equal opportunity and the diversity of its workforce.

 

POSTDOCTORAL POSITION

The Pennsylvania State University
Department of Astronomy and Astrophysics
525 Davey Lab
University Park, PA 16802
Tel: 814-865-9482
FAX: 814-863-3399
Email Inquiries: This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it
URL: http://www.astro.psu.edu

Attention: Dr. George Pavlov

A postdoctoral research position is available in the Department of Astronomy and Astrophysics at the Pennsylvania State University. The successful applicant will work with Dr. Pavlov and collaborators on the analysis and interpretation of X-ray, gamma-ray and optical observations of neutron stars and related objects with Chandra, XMM-Newton, Fermi, HST, and other space observatories. A PhD is required. Prior experience with the analysis of high-energy and optical spectral/timing/imaging data would be useful. Information about the department can be found at http://www.astro.psu.edu .

The initial appointment is for one year, renewable to a total of three years. Applicants should send a curriculum vitae, list of publications, statement of research interests, and letters of recommendation from two referees to Dr. Pavlov at the above address (e-mail submission is acceptable). Applications will receive immediate consideration. The position will be filled as soon as a suitable candidate is identified.

Penn State is committed to affirmative action, equal opportunity and the diversity of its workforce.
 

POSTDOCTORAL RESEARCH POSITION IN OPTICAL/NIR INSTRUMENTATION

The Pennsylvania State University
Dept. of Astronomy & Astrophysics
525 Davey Laboratory
University Park, PA 16802
Tel: 814 865 0418
FAX: 814 863 2842

Email Submission Address: This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it
Email Inquiries: This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it

Attn: Dr. Jason T Wright, Assistant Professor of Astronomy

One postdoctoral research position in optical/NIR Instrumentation is available in the Department of Astronomy and Astrophysics at The Pennsylvania State University. A PhD in Astrophysics or related field is required, and applicants should have experience with some subset of the following areas and be willing and able to quickly learn the rest: astronomical instrumentation, robotic observatories, imaging photometry data reduction and processing, and time-domain astronomy. The initial appointment will be for one year, renewable to a total of three years contingent upon continued funding and can begin as early as August 15, 2009.

The successful applicant will work with Dr. Jason T Wright on the planning and construction of a small (0.5 - 1.5 m) robotic imaging telescope, and with the planning and execution of a campaign to detect and characterize exoplanet transits. He or she will also be expected to pursue independent contribute to the in the vibrant research atmosphere of the department.

Applicants should submit electronic applications (pdf, postscript, or text) containing a curriculum vitae, list of publications, brief statement of research interests and relevant experience, and contact information for three references to This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it . Review of the applications will begin immediately and continue until the position is filled.

Penn State is committed to affirmative action, equal opportunity and the diversity of its workforce.

 

Postdoctoral Position, Supernova Remnant

Department of Astronomy and Astrophysics
PENN STATE UNIVERSITY
525 Davey Lab
University Park, PA 16802
Tel: 814 867 1281
Fax: 814 863 3399
Email Submission Address: This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it
Email Inquiries: This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it

Attention: Dr. Sangwook Park

The X-ray Astronomy group of the Pennsylvania State University Department
of Astronomy and Astrophysics has an opening for a postdoctoral research
position. The successful applicant will participate in our research programs
on supernova remnants and pulsar wind nebulae utilizing data obtained with
X-ray space telescopes on board Chandra, XMM-Newton, and Suzaku. Our current
research programs include three Chandra Large Projects for the detailed
studies of supernova nucleosynthesis and dynamics in the Type Ia SNR G299.2-2.9 (640 ks), core-collapse SNRs 0049-73.6 (450 ks) and G292.0+1.8 (530 ks),
as well as a Suzaku Key Project for the nucleosynthesis study of the historical Type Ia Kepler SNR (400+ ks). The appointee will work primarily on these big projects, and may also be involved in a number of other on-going supernova remnant projects.

A Ph.D. in Physics, Astrophysics, or a related field is required. Expertise in X-ray data analysis and/or theoretical studies of supernova remnants/pulsar wind nebulae is preferred. The department has major research efforts utilizing X-ray data from the Chandra, XMM-Newton, Suzaku, and Swift satellites, and optical data from the 9 m Hobby-Eberly Telescope. The salary is commensurate with experience and competitive with other institutions. The appointment is initially for one year with the possibility of renewal contingent upon satisfactory progress and funding. The starting date is flexible, but no later than July 2010. Interested candidates should send a cover letter, CV, list of publications, and a short research statement (3 pages or less) to Dr. Sangwook Park, 525 Davey Lab, University Park, PA 16802. The applicant should also arrange three letters of reference to be directly sent to the same address. Review of the applications will begin immediately and will continue until the position is filled.

Further information can be obtained via e-mail from Dr. Sangwook Park at
This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it .

Penn State is committed to affirmative action, equal opportunity, and the diversity of its workforce.

 

Postdoctoral Researcher on Active Galaxy Studies

Penn State University
Astronomy & Astrophysics Department
525 Davey Lab
University Park, PA 16802 USA
(814) 865-3509
Attention: W.N. Brandt

POSTDOCTORAL POSITION, ACTIVE GALAXIES, PENN STATE: Applications are invited for a position which could begin as early as June 2010 (the starting date has some flexibility). The successful applicant will work with Prof. W.N. Brandt, Prof. D.P. Schneider, and collaborators on studies of the X-ray-to-optical spectral energy distributions of active galaxies found in modern sky surveys, such as the Sloan Digital Sky Survey (SDSS) and deep-field surveys. Data archives to be utilized will include those from XMM-Newton, Chandra, Swift, GALEX, HST, and Spitzer. Research duties will involve the analysis of active galaxy spectral/variability/imaging data, the publication of scientific results, and the planning and implementation of new observing programs. A PhD is required, and experience with active galaxy studies, X-ray astronomy, and/or the SDSS would be an advantage. The position is for one year initially with the possible extension of up to two more years.

Information about the Department can be found at http://www.astro.psu.edu.  Penn State has a significant community of active galaxy researchers and is the PI institution for the ACIS CCD camera on Chandra. It also has strong connections to Swift and the Hobby-Eberly Telescope. Applications including CV, publications list, one-page statement of research interests, and two professional reference letters should be sent to W.N. Brandt at the above address by November 20, 2009. Questions should be directed to W.N. Brandt at 814-865-3509 or This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it .

Penn State is committed to affirmative action, equal opportunity and the
diversity of its workforce.


 

Postdoctoral Research Associate in Exoplanets : Optical and NIR Precision Radial Velocity Techniques for Exoplanet searches


Applications are invited for a postdoctoral research position in exoplanet searches with precision radial velocity techniques in the optical and NIR to work with Dr Suvrath Mahadevan on:

Development of algorithms and calibration techniques to derive precision radial velocities in the NIR using the fiber-fed Penn State Pathfinder prototype and other such  facility-class NIR spectrographs in their design phase, with the scientific goal of being able to discover low mass exoplanets around mid-late M stars.

Analysis of data, RV curves and exoplanet candidates, and continuing development of reduction algorithms for PARAS a highly stabilized fiber-fed optical high resolution spectrograph being commissioned at the Mt Abu 1.2m telescope in India in early 2009. PARAS has a single exposure wavelength coverage of 370-850nm and a simultaneous Th-Ar calibration fiber for achieving precision velocities.

Penn State has a 26% share in the 9m HET and is a member of the LSST consortium.. Penn State also hosts the Center for Exoplanets and Habitable Worlds, and the successful candidate will have access to center resource.

Review of applications will start Dec 1st, and closing date for receipt of applications is Dec 15th . Candidates should send an application package including CV and statement of research interests, and starting date preferences to This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it (electronic submission preferred), or to the address listed. Please also arrange for 3 letters of reference to be sent by e-mail or to the address listed. A Ph.D. in Physics, Astrophysics, or a related field is required.

Penn State is an equality opportunity employer and committed to affirmative action and diversity of workforce.


 

Research Associate in Optical and NIR instrumentation


Penn State invites applications for a position to work with Dr. Suvrath Mahadevan and Dr. Larry Ramsey on the implementation of a fiber-fed NIR and optical spectrographs capable of achieving high radial velocity precision.

The candidate should have experience with design and/or testing of astronomical instrumentation with several of the following skill sets: experience with optical design codes (ZEMAX, OSLO or  CODE V), spectrograph and camera design, optical tolerancing and assembling and testing optical components. Experience in cryogenics, vacuum systems, precision temperature control, and optomechanical design will be regarded as a valuable asset.

As a member of the Penn State Optical/NIR Astronomy Instrumentation team the chosen candidate will have opportunities to participate in ongoing and future ground and space instrumentation projects. Penn State has a 26% share in the 9m HET and is a member of the LSST consortium. Penn State also hosts the Center for Exoplanets and Habitable Worlds

Closing date for receipt of applications is Jan 1st . Candidates should send an application package including CV, publication lists, and statement of research interests, and starting date preferences to This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it (electronic submission preferred), or to the address listed. Please also arrange for 3 letters of reference to be sent separately by e-mail, or to the address listed. Appointments will me made as a Postdoctoral researcher for new or recent PhD’s, or as a Research Associate for more senior candidates. Highly qualified candidates who have the required skill sets, but do not posses a PhD are also encouraged to make enquiries.

Penn State is committed to affirmative action, equal opportunity and the diversity of its workforce.

 

Postdoctoral Research Position in Extrasoloar Planets

The Pennsylvania State University
Dept. of Astronomy & Astrophysics
Center for Exoplanets and Habitable Worlds
525 Davey Laboratory
University Park, PA 16802
Attn: Dr. Alex Wolszczan

The Department of Astronomy and Astrophysics, Center for Exoplanets and Habitable Worlds (CEHW), at the Pennsylvania State University invites applications for a postdoctoral research position in the areas of formation, detection, and characterization of extrasolar planets. Successful applicants are expected to work with the Center faculty on projects in these areas. The position is for two years with a possibility of extension for one more year. Applicants should have a Ph.D. in Astronomy or Physics and a promising research record, which includes a demonstrated experience in one or more fields as specified above. An interest and skills in hardware development are also desirable but not required.

The Center for Exoplanets and Habitable Worlds, hosted by the Department, provides resources to support a variety of extrasolar planet – related activities. It has several internal and external affiliates, whose research interests include extrasolar planets. Among other assets, the Department is a major partner (25% of the observing time) in the Hobby-Eberly Telescope at the McDonald Observatory. Current information on research and other activities can be found at

http://exoplanets.astro.psu.edu and http://www.astro.psu.edu.

Applications should include a cover letter, a CV, statement of research interests, list of publications, and names of three references, mailed to:

Ms. Erin Eckley, ( This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it )
525 Davey Lab, Pennsylvania State University
University Park, PA 16803
Fax: 814-863-2842
Phone: 814-865-0418

Review of applications will begin in December, and the search will continue until position is filled.

Penn State is committed to affirmative action, equal opportunity and the diversity of its workforce.


Postdoctoral Position in Star and Planet Formation


PENNSYLVANIA STATE  UNIVERSITY

One postdoctoral research position in star and planet formation is available in the Department of Astronomy and Astrophysics at The Pennsylvania State University. The successful applicant will work with Dr. Kevin Luhman on the analysis and interpretation of optical and infrared data from the Spitzer Space Telescope, Hubble Space Telescope, and large ground-based telescopes in studying the formation of stars, brown dwarfs, and planets. A PhD is required. The initial appointment will be for one year, renewable to a total of three years and can begin as early as January 1, 2010 and as late as October 1, 2010. Applicants should submit electronic applications (pdf, postscript, or text) containing a curriculum vitae, list of publications, brief statement of research interests and experience, and contact information for three references to This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it . Review of the applications will begin immediately and continue until the position is filled.

Penn State is committed to affirmative action, equal opportunity, and the diversity of its workforce.