Gemini/ HST Cluster Project (GCP) Intern

The NSF’s National Optical Infrared Astronomy Research Laboratory (NSF OIR Lab) at the Gemini Observatory in Hilo, Hawaii has two openings for research interns (undergraduate student or recent graduate) to work with Dr. Inger Jorgensen and Dr. Kristin Chiboucas on the Gemini/HST Galaxy Cluster Project for four months in the period May-August 2020.

The Gemini/HST Galaxy Cluster Project team studies the evolution of galaxies from redshift two to the present. The students are expected to be available for work full time, though part time work over a longer period will also be considered. The start date is flexible, however will preferably be no later than June 1, 2020. The positions are paid student internships.

We are committed to diversity and inclusion at Gemini Observatory. Our managing organization, AURA as a leader in the astronomical community, develops and supports programs that advance our organizational commitment to diversity, broaden participation, and encourage the advancement of diversity throughout the astronomical scientific workforce. Learn more at http://www.aura-astronomy.org/diversity.asp.

We seek an individual who can thrive in a culturally diverse environment.

The student will:

• be responsible for processing of spectroscopic data of redshift 0.5-1.5 galaxy clusters, obtained with the multi-object spectrograph GMOS on Gemini, and imaging data from the Hubble Space Telescope.
• work closely with Drs. Jorgensen and Chiboucas at Gemini North and communicate progress and results to the larger international project team
• be trained in relevant processing techniques

The successful applicant must:

• be enrolled in a Bachelor’s program in a relevant field, or have a recent B.S./B.A. (or higher) degree in a relevant field (astronomy, physics, computer science)
• have good English communication skills, including being able to clearly document performed work
• have prior experience with UNIX/Linux/MacOS-X

The successful applicant preferably have:

• experience processing of either spectroscopic or imaging data with IRAF/pyraf
• programming experience in python
• experience handling larger data sets
• research experience as part of internships or projects during undergraduate/graduate studies

The Association of Universities for Research in Astronomy (AURA) is a consortium of over 40 US institutions and four international affiliates that operates world-class astronomical observatories. AURA’s role is to establish, nurture, and promote public observatories and facilities that advance innovative astronomical research. AURA is responsible for managing the operations of the NSF’s National Optical-Infrared Astronomy Research Laboratory, the National Solar Observatory, and the construction of the Large Synoptic Survey Telescope and the Daniel K. Inouye Solar Telescope under cooperative agreements with the National Science Foundation and operations of the Space Telescope Institute under contracts with NASA.

Further information about the position can be obtained from Dr. Inger Jorgensen, [email protected]

To apply, submit a cover letter, CV, grade sheet for courses completed, and provide names and contact information for two professional references. Using the electronic application procedure for Gemini positions, upload one PDF file containing all required information. Incomplete applications will not be considered.

Assessment of applications will start February 28, 2020.

As a recipient of U.S. Government funding, AURA is considered a government contractor and is subject to Equal Employment Opportunity and Affirmative Action regulations. As an Equal Opportunity and Affirmative Action Employer, AURA does not discriminate based on race, sex, color, age, religion, national origin, sexual orientation, gender identity/gender identity expression, lawful political affiliations, veteran status, disability, and/or any other legally protected status under applicable federal, state, and local equal opportunity laws. 

Veterans, disabled individuals or wounded warriors needing assistance with the employment process should request assistance at [email protected]