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

The High Energy Astrophysics Detector and Instrumentation group at Penn State has an immediate opening for an Assistant or Associate Research Professor to work on advanced instrumentation for X-ray astronomy and upcoming orbital and/or suborbital flight systems. A Ph.D. in Physics, Astrophysics, or a related field is required. The current program includes development and testing of the recently approved BlackCAT CubeSat observatory which will launch in approximately 4 years, state-of-the-art solid-state X-ray detectors for use in both near-term and long-term X-ray astronomy missions, as well as other instrumentation efforts and astrophysical studies for upcoming flight mission opportunities. The successful applicant will be expected to carry out an aggressive program of laboratory testing and characterization of these devices using equipment in our laboratories as well as conducting field tests at national labs. Previous experience with some, or all, of the following is required; astronomical detectors, low noise electronics, electronic board development, firmware programming, vacuum systems, X-ray calibration facilities, and/or space flight hardware design, engineering, & testing. The successful applicant will also 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, and VERITAS; 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 that is being advertised separately. The salary will be commensurate with experience. Applications must be submitted electronically at https://psu.jobs/job/91093 and include a curriculum vitae, publication list, statement of research interests, and names and contact information for three references. Review of applications will begin immediately and continue until the position is filled. This is a fixed-term appointment funded for one year from date of hire with possibility of renewal. Please send inquiries regarding the position to Prof. Abe Falcone at [email protected].

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