Postdoc in EM counterpart search of GWs at Penn State

The Department of Astronomy and Astrophysics of the Pennsylvania State University has an opening for a post-doctoral scholar to work with Dr. Jamie A. Kennea on the search for electromagnetic counterparts of gravitational wave sources detected by the Advanced LIGO and Virgo detectors.

A PhD in Physics, Astronomy, or a closely related field is required. The position will entail work on the development of optimized observing strategies and data analysis techniques for detecting EM counterparts in X-ray and Optical/Ultra-violet data taken with NASA’s Swift Satellite. The successful application would be expected to work closely with the Swift Team on detection of EM counterparts during LIGO O3 run and beyond, and in addition may take a role in Swift Operations.

Salary will be commensurate with experience. Previous experience with Swift data, or general X-ray, optical and UV astronomy data analysis of transient sources is desirable, in addition any experience in Gravitational Wave astronomy would 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.

Applications must be submitted electronically at https://psu.jobs/job/79070 and 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 August 1, 2018 and will be accepted until the position is filled. This is a fixed-term appointment funded for one year from date of hire with possibility of renewal.

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