Pro Tem Research Assistant/Associate/Postdoc - Institute for Fundamental Science - Open Pool

University of Oregon • Eugene, OR

1d

About The Position

The Institute for Fundamental Science at the University of Oregon is seeking
qualified applicants for its open research pool. Positions are limited-duration,
funding-contingent research appointments that are full time, part-time or short
term, contracts not to exceed one year. There is a possibility of renewal up to
a total of three years, depending on program needs, funding, and performance.
The successful candidate will have the ability to work effectively with faculty,
staff, and students from a variety of diverse backgrounds.

Examples include research assistants, research associates, or postdoctoral
scholars. Research assistants conduct research under the direction of a
principal investigator; research associates conduct research with only general
guidance; postdoctoral scholars conduct research under the direction of a
faculty member for the purpose of acquiring research training.

Requirements

• RESEARCH ASSISTANT (TYPE B): Positions require a bachelor’s degree in Physics, Chemistry, Math, Astronomy or related field. In rare occasions, positions in specialized fields may allow for a combination of education and equivalent experience prior to the time of hire to satisfy the bachelor’s degree requirement.
• RESEARCH ASSISTANT (TYPE C): Positions require a master’s degree in Physics, Chemistry, Math, Astronomy or related field. In rare occasions, positions in highly specialized fields may allow for a combination of education and exceptional equivalent experience prior to the time of hire to satisfy the master’s degree requirement.
• Research Associate rank or Postdoctoral Scholar: • Terminal degree in Physics, Chemistry, Math, Astronomy or related field. • Professional experience conducting research in Physics, Chemistry, Math, Astronomy or related field.
• Senior Research Associate I rank: • Terminal degree in Physics, Chemistry, Math, Astronomy or related field, plus 6 years of applicable work experience post-degree.
• Senior Research Associate II rank: • Terminal degree in Physics, Chemistry, Math, Astronomy or related field, plus 12 years of applicable work experience post-degree.
• Ability to conduct research activities under appropriate supervision and follow established research protocols.
• Ability to work effectively with faculty, staff, and students from a variety of diverse backgrounds.
• Strong analytical, critical‑thinking, and problem‑solving skills.
• Ability to collect, manage, and analyze research data with accuracy and attention to detail.
• Effective written and oral communication skills appropriate for scholarly and research environments.
• Ability to work both independently and collaboratively as part of a research team.
• Ability to foster a professional, inclusive, and respectful research environment.
• Ability to comply with university policies, research compliance requirements, and applicable safety standards.
• Effective time‑management and organizational skills to meet project goals and deadlines.

Nice To Haves

• Prior research experience in high energy particle physics, Astrophysics, Astronomy, Chemistry, Mathematics, or closely related fields.
• Experience conducting experimental, theoretical, or computational research.
• Familiarity with mathematical modeling, data analysis techniques, or computational tools relevant to fundamental science research.
• Experience contributing to scholarly publications, preprints, technical reports, or conference presentations.
• Experience working in a collaborative or interdisciplinary research environment.
• For research associates or postdoctoral scholars: evidence of increasing independence in research activities.
• Experience supporting grant‑funded or contract‑funded research projects.
• Experience participating in research seminars, workshops, or professional scientific meetings.

Responsibilities

• Conduct research activities under appropriate supervision and follow established research protocols.
• Work effectively with faculty, staff, and students from a variety of diverse backgrounds.
• Collect, manage, and analyze research data with accuracy and attention to detail.
• Communicate effectively in written and oral forms appropriate for scholarly and research environments.
• Work both independently and collaboratively as part of a research team.
• Foster a professional, inclusive, and respectful research environment.
• Comply with university policies, research compliance requirements, and applicable safety standards.
• Manage time effectively and organize tasks to meet project goals and deadlines.

Benefits

• The University of Oregon is proud to offer a robust benefits package to eligible employees, including health insurance, retirement plans, and paid time off.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Entry Level