Research Associate - Mellon College of Science - Physics Department

Carnegie Mellon University•Pittsburgh, PA

3d•Onsite

About The Position

Carnegie Mellon University's Mellon College of Science (MCS) Physics Department is seeking a Research Associate to utilize data from the Dark Energy Camera, Dark Energy Spectroscopic Instrument, and/or Rubin Observatory. The primary focus will be on identifying potential multi-messenger sources and new transients using AI methods. While the role is data-analysis intensive, an observational component may be included based on research outcomes and telescope time availability. The successful candidate will join Prof. Palmese's lab and contribute to research in time domain astrophysics.

Requirements

Bachelor’s Degree required.
Minimum 1 year of research experience in observational time domain astrophysics related to gravitational wave data and/or optical astronomical transients.
Experience with applications of AI tools to astronomical data or AI college courses.
Strong analytical, communication, problem-solving, and reasoning skills.
Successful completion of a pre-employment background check.

Nice To Haves

A combination of education and proven experience from which comparable knowledge is demonstrated may be considered.

Responsibilities

Conduct research in time domain astrophysics in Prof. Palmese’s lab
Attend and present results in Prof. Palmese’s lab group meetings and other relevant meetings with the group’s collaborators
Participate in and help organize activities within the McWilliams Center for Cosmology and Astrophysics
Identifies problems and obstacles to progress; develops strategies to solve problems.
Summarizes statistical information for analysis, examination or presentation; writes technical reports.
May build and validate quantitative models.