Assistant/Associate Research Professor in Astronomy and Astrophysics
About The Position
The Department of Astronomy and Astrophysics at Penn State is seeking to fill a full-time, non-tenure track Assistant or Associate Research Professor position. This role is designed to begin immediately and involves research focused on the nanofabrication of diffraction gratings for future missions. The successful candidate will work with reflection gratings for UV and X-ray applications, utilizing various substrates and groove designs. Responsibilities include employing nanofabrication techniques such as electron-beam lithography, grayscale lithography, ion etching, wet chemistry, and deposition. Surface metrology techniques like ellipsometry, electron microscopy, and atomic force microscopy will also be utilized. The position requires disseminating research through publications and conference presentations, contributing to studies for future missions like the Habitable Worlds Observatory, and assisting in writing funding proposals.
Requirements
- Ph.D. in Astronomy or Physics preferred, or a Ph.D. in a related field with strong research experience in astronomical instrumentation or nanofabrication.
- Demonstrated ability as a researcher.
- Record of successful grant funding.
Nice To Haves
- Experience with nanofabrication is desired.
Responsibilities
- Undertake research involving nanofabrication of diffraction gratings and application to future missions.
- Create reflection gratings for UV and X-ray applications on a variety of substrates with a variety of groove directions and shapes.
- Perform nanofabrication techniques including electron-beam lithography, grayscale lithography, ion etching, wet chemistry, and deposition.
- Utilize surface metrology techniques such as ellipsometry, electron microscopy, and atomic force microscopy.
- Disseminate research through refereed publications and conference talks.
- Contribute to studies specific to future missions such as the Habitable Worlds Observatory.
- Help write proposals for related funding support.
Benefits
- Competitive salary and benefits.
- Comprehensive medical, dental, and vision coverage.
- Robust retirement plans.
- 75% tuition discount for employees, eligible spouses, and children.
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What This Job Offers
Job Type
Full-time
Career Level
Entry Level
Education Level
Ph.D. or professional degree
