Student Research Assistant- Pool
About The Position
This role will investigate techniques for calibrating and optimizing the sensitivity of cosmic-ray detector facilities based on measurements of radio-frequency signals generated by interactions of cosmic rays with ice molecules. For the past three decades, the KU particle astrophysics program has pursued the first-ever detection of ultra-high-energy cosmic neutrinos through radio-wave signals produced by neutrino interactions with polar ice. Current active experiments include ARA, ARIANNA, and PUEO in Antarctica, as well as RNO-G and RET in Greenland. KU will also play a key role in the upcoming IceCube-Gen2 experiment at the South Pole. Our research encompasses all aspects of these experiments, including: a) design, measurement, and calibration of instrumentation used to detect ultra-high-energy neutrinos; b) measurement of the radio-frequency transmission properties of cold polar ice; c) calibration of radio-frequency instrumentation both prior to and following deployment; and d) direct searches for cosmic rays using radio techniques. In addition, we participate in astrobiological initiatives that explore correlations between cosmic-ray exposure and organismal metabolism. The hired individual will be expected to contribute to one or more of these efforts.
Requirements
- Completed Introductory College Physics coursework, or equivalent, as indicated on application materials.
- During the semester term of the appointment, the student hourly must be enrolled in no fewer than 6 credit hours.
- For summer periods the student hourly must: (1) have been enrolled in no less than 6 hours in the past spring semester or (2) be pre-enrolled in the upcoming fall semester in no less than 6 hours or (3) be enrolled in summer session or (4) be admitted to study in the upcoming fall semester.
- Student Hourlies may be undergraduate or graduate students.
- Student employees are not eligible for remote work arrangements unless an exception is approved by the unit leadership and HR.
- This is an hourly/non-exempt position. A student employee cannot hold an hourly/non-exempt position and a salaried/exempt graduate or undergraduate position (GRA/GTA/GA/RUA/RGA) concurrently.
Nice To Haves
- Prior experience coding in C++ and/or python, familiarity with linux and shell scripting languages, as indicated on application materials.
Responsibilities
- Conduct advanced research focused on the design, measurement, and calibration of scientific instruments used in cosmic-ray and neutrino detection.
- Responsibilities include developing experimental setups, analyzing data, troubleshooting equipment, and ensuring precision in calibration processes to optimize detector sensitivity.
- Attend regular research team meetings to share progress, discuss technical challenges, and contribute to collaborative problem-solving.
- Provide input on experimental design and project planning.
- Prepare and deliver presentations of research findings to internal teams and external collaborators.
- Interpret experimental data, draft technical reports, and contribute to publications or conference presentations.
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What This Job Offers
Job Type
Part-time
Career Level
Entry Level
Industry
Ambulatory Health Care Services
Education Level
No Education Listed
Number of Employees
5,001-10,000 employees
