Assistant/Associate Research Professor - High-Energy/X-ray Astrophysics Space-flight Instrumentation

The High Energy Astrophysics Detector and Instrumentation group at Penn State has an immediate opening for an Assistant/Associate Research Professor to work on advanced instrumentation for X-ray astronomy and upcoming orbital flight systems. A Ph.D. in Physics, Astrophysics, or a related field is required. The current program includes development and testing of the approved BlackCAT CubeSat observatory, which is being prepared for launch in 2024, as well as work on state-of-the-art solid-state X-ray detectors for use in both near-term and long-term X-ray astronomy missions and includes work on other instrumentation efforts and astrophysical studies for upcoming flight mission opportunities. The BlackCAT CubeSat is in an ideal state of development for an early career scientist to have opportunities to lead efforts and work on instrumentation and flight system development, along with science and data analysis from a new space mission.

Previous experience with some, or all, of the following is desired:

• astronomical detectors
• firmware and/or flight software programming
• low noise electronics
• electronic board development
• vacuum systems
• X-ray calibration facilities
• space flight hardware design, engineering, and testing
• high energy or other astrophysical data analysis

Candidates are encouraged to apply even if their experience is limited to just a subset of the topics listed above, provided there is sufficient inclination towards laboratory instrumentation. The successful applicant will have the opportunity to participate in other ongoing research programs within the Penn State High Energy Instrumentation group, which include: analysis of data from Chandra, XMM, Swift, Fermi, VERITAS, etc.; development of new X-ray astronomy missions; as well as the opportunity to participate in other multi-wavelength and multi-messenger efforts. The applicant will also be encouraged to develop their own programs and initiatives.

A minimum of 2-3 years of prior postdoctoral experience is required for this position. Less experienced applicants should consider applying for the postdoctoral position at https://psu.wd1.myworkdayjobs.com/PSU_Academic/job/University-Park-Campus/Postdoctoral-Researcher---High-Energy-X-ray-Astrophysics-Space-flight-Instrumentation_REQ_0000032226-1. The salary will be commensurate with experience.

Applications must be submitted electronically and include a curriculum vitae, publication list, and statement of research interests. In addition, please arrange for three reference letters to be sent to [email protected].

Review of applications will begin immediately and continue until the position is filled. This is a limited term appointment funded for one year from date of hire with likely renewal through this multi-year program. Please send inquiries regarding the position to Prof. Abe Falcone at [email protected].

Interested candidates are to apply directly online at: https://psu.wd1.myworkdayjobs.com/PSU_Academic/job/University-Park-Campus/Assistant-Associate-Research-Professor---High-Energy-X-ray-Astrophysics-Space-flight-Instrumentation_REQ_0000032235-1

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