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JOB DESCRIPTION AND POSITION REQUIREMENTS:

The High Energy Astrophysics Detector and Instrumentation Group at Penn State has an immediate opening for a Postdoctoral Researcher to work on advanced instrumentation for X-ray astronomy and upcoming orbital flight systems. The current programs include development and testing of the approved BlackCAT CubeSat observatory, which is being prepared for launch in 2025, as well as work on state-of-the-art solid-state X-ray detectors for use in both near-term and long-term X-ray astronomy missions and includes work on other instrumentation efforts and astrophysical studies for upcoming flight mission opportunities. The BlackCAT CubeSat is in an ideal state of development for an early career scientist to have opportunities to lead efforts and work on instrumentation and flight system development, along with science and data analysis from a new space mission.

Previous experience with some, or all, of the following is desired:

• astronomical detectors

• firmware and/or flight software programming

• low noise electronics

• electronic board development

• vacuum systems

• X-ray calibration facilities

• space flight hardware design, engineering, and testing

• high energy or other astrophysical data analysis

Education and Experience

A Ph.D. in Physics, Astrophysics, or a related field is required. Candidates are encouraged to apply even if their experience is limited to just a subset of the topics listed above, provided there is sufficient inclination towards laboratory instrumentation. The successful applicant will 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, VERITAS, etc.; 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.

 
More experienced applicants should consider applying for the Assistant/Associate Research Professor position at: https://psu.wd1.myworkdayjobs.com/PSU_Academic/job/Penn-State-University-Park/Assistant-Associate-Research-Professor---High-Energy-X-ray-Astrophysics-Space-flight-Instrumentation_REQ_0000046639-1

Additional Information:

Applications must be submitted electronically and include a curriculum vitae, publication list, and statement of research interests. In addition, please arrange for three reference letters to be sent to afalcone@astro.psu.edu.

This is a term appointment, funded for 12 months from date of hire with likely renewal through this multi-year program. The salary will be commensurate with experience.

Review of applications will begin immediately and continue until the position is filled. Please send inquiries regarding the position to Prof. Abe Falcone at afalcone@astro.psu.edu.

The Pennsylvania State University is committed to and accountable for advancing diversity, equity, inclusion, and sustainability in all of its forms. We embrace individual uniqueness, foster a culture of inclusion that supports both broad and specific diversity initiatives, leverage the educational and institutional benefits of diversity in society and nature, and engage all individuals to help them thrive. We value inclusion as a core strength and an essential element of our public service mission. 

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Pursuant to the Jeanne Clery Disclosure of Campus Security Policy and Campus Crime Statistics Act and the Pennsylvania Act of 1988, Penn State publishes a combined Annual Security and Annual Fire Safety Report (ASR). The ASR includes crime statistics and institutional policies concerning campus security, such as those concerning alcohol and drug use, crime prevention, the reporting of crimes, sexual assault, and other matters. The ASR is available for review here .

Employment with the University will require successful completion of background check(s) in accordance with University policies. 

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