Science Intern

NSF’s NOIRLab has an immediate opening for a Science Intern to carry out research on planetary systems around white dwarfs with Dr. Siyi Xu and other members of the scientific staff at Gemini Observatory.  We seek an individual who thrives in a culturally diverse environment. We are committed to diversity and inclusion at NOIRLab, which includes Gemini Observatory.

Activities and Functions of the Position:

• Reducing data obtained from Gemini/GNIRS, Flamingos-2, Keck/MOSFIRE and HIRES 
• Simulating debris disk spectra for the James Webb Space Telescope 
• Maintaining a white dwarf debris disk database

Education/Experience/Skills Requirements: 

• Bachelor’s degree in Astronomy or related field
• Previous research experience
• Must possess good English communication skills (written and verbal)
• Self-motivated, ability to work with minimal supervision

Physical Demands:

The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions. 

The work of a Science Intern is mostly carried out in an office environment.  Long periods of sitting may be required.

AURA offers an excellent benefits package including paid time off and retirement plan contributions, competitive salary commensurate with experience, and a stimulating work environment.

Interested applicants, please submit a 1-page motivation letter, CV, grade sheet for courses completed, and provide names and contact information for two professional references. Incomplete applications will not be considered. PDF files preferred. Please name any attachments with the following format:  LastnameDocname. Application documents that are not uploaded as part of the application may be sent to [email protected]

This is a paid student internship for a duration of 4 to 6 months. The student is expected to be available for work full time. The start date is flexible, however, will preferably be no later than October 1, 2021.

 Application deadline:  August 15, 2021.  Position will remain open until filled.

****NOIRLab/Gemini Observatory has the majority of staff working remotely during COVID-19 crisis. The safety of our staff and community is our top priority. We will continue to interview and screen candidates in this new virtual landscape. Offers of employment can be extended and new hires can on-board virtually and arrangements may be made for remote work in the following states: Arizona, California, Colorado, Florida, Hawaii, New Mexico, Maryland, Virginia, and Washington D.C.

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

We are committed to diversity and inclusion at NOIRLab/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

The Association of Universities for Research in Astronomy (AURA), is a consortium of over 40 US institutions and three 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 NOIRLab, the National Solar Observatory, and the construction of the Vera C. Rubin Observatory and the Daniel K. Inouye Solar Telescope under cooperative agreements with the National Science Foundation and operations of the Space Telescope Science Institute under contracts with NASA. 

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.