Assistant/Associate Research Professor in Astronomy and Astrophysics

The Department of Astronomy and Astrophysics at Penn State invites applications for a full-time Assistant or Associate Research Professor position (non-tenure track) to begin immediately. Salary and benefits will be competitive and commensurate with the successful candidate’s qualifications and experience.

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 various nanofabrication techniques including, but not limited to, electron-beam lithography, grayscale lithography, ion etching, wet chemistry, deposition, and surface metrology 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 and help write proposals for related funding support.

Requirements

• A Ph.D. in Astronomy or Physics is preferred, a Ph.D. in a related field with strong research experience in astronomical instrumentation or nanofabrication will be considered.
• Experience with nanofabrication is desired.
• Demonstrated ability as a researcher and a record of successful grant funding.

Qualifications

• Education and experience as outlined above.

Skills

• Strong research skills.
• Ability to work independently and collaboratively.
• Excellent communication and writing skills.

Benefits

• Comprehensive medical, dental, and vision coverage.
• Broad range of retirement plans.
• 75% tuition discount for employees, spouses, and children.

Pay

Salary and benefits will be competitive and commensurate with the successful candidate’s qualifications and experience.

Schedule

The position is a term position; length of the term will be discussed during the interview process. Continuation past the term length discussed will be based on university need, performance, and/or availability of funding.

Additional Information

• Applications must be submitted electronically and include a cover letter, CV, statement of research interests, and a list of publications.
• Please arrange for three professional reference letters to be sent to dps7@psu.edu.

Review of applications will begin immediately and continue until the position is filled.