Assistant Research Scientist

Employer Description

The College of Optical Sciences, founded as the University of Arizona Optical Science Center, has been shaping the future since 1964 by offering the highest quality graduate and undergraduate educations, cutting edge-research programs and solid commitment to the economic development of the optics industry.

Throughout its 53-year history, OSC has stood on the forefront of the field; today, it educates more students in optics than any institution in the U.S., provides the world’s most comprehensive educational program in optics and maintains a worldwide reputation as a premier institution for optical sciences and engineering.

Job Description

The College of Optical Sciences is seeking applicants for the position of Assistant Research Scientist. The successful applicant will participate on a team that is 1. modeling and developing instruments to measure and characterize terrestrial exoplanets at visible wavelengths and 2. investigating the role of instrument polarization (vector-waves) on coronagraph contrast & image quality. This role includes research of scattered light in exoplanet coronagraphs and their optical matched filters, which will be applied to the spectral characterization of terrestrial exoplanets in the NASA HabEX and LUVOIR or similar systems. Model, design, build and test coronagraph devices, subsystems and systems as needed.  Federal regulations require that the incumbent be a U.S. citizen or legal permanent resident to be ITAR/EAR compliant.

Job Duties:

• Collaborate with Professors Chipman and Breckinridge to model and develop optics technologies for the detection and characterization of terrestrial exoplanets using the next generation of space telescopes.
• Participate in regular team meetings as required.

The University of Arizona has been listed by Forbes as one of America’s Best Employers in the United States and WorldatWork and the Arizona Department of Health Services have recognized us for our innovative work-life programs. For more information about working at the University of Arizona Please visit: http://www.whyua.com/

Job Requirements:

Minimum Qualifications:

• Federal regulations require that the incumbent be a U.S. citizen or legal permanent resident to be ITAR/EAR compliant.
• PhD in Optical Sciences, Astronomy, Physics, Mathematics or ECE with background in simulating image formation in complex optical systems and experience using ray-trace design programs such as CODE-V or Zemax.

Preferred Qualifications:

• Excellent communication skills.
• Experience in vector diffraction, linear optics, propagation of E&M waves, metal & dielectric thin films, SNR calculations and the design & construction of instruments.
• Data analysis and interpretation.
• Evidence of successful independent research.

*Special Instructions to Applicant:

• Do not send application materials to position contact.  All materials must be provided within the University of Arizona applicant portal.  Please visit UACareers: https://uacareers.com/postings/21938 
• Please provide copies of scientific and technical published papers along with your CV.
• CV must contain dissertation title, date, name of adviser and a list of courses completed.
• Letter of Interest must include a statement that describes education and experience relevant to the required qualifications listed.