Centaur Research Assistant

This job was posted by https://www.azjobconnection.gov : For more information, please see: https://www.azjobconnection.gov/jobs/7567598 1 \| P a g e POSITION ANNOUNCEMENT CENTAUR RESEARCH ASSISTANT Temporary Position Lowell Observatory Research Assistants perform research in support of Lowell scientists. This position will be supervised by Dr. Nick Moskovitz who will ensure the Research Assistant makes adequate progress, but the ability to independently solve problems will be required. Responsibilities The research assistant will work in collaboration with Dr. Moskovitz and other project team members on observational studies of Centaurs using new and archival astronomical data. Centaurs are a transient population of small bodies with orbits between that of Neptune and Jupiter. The motivation of this project is to better understand the processes at play effecting the surfaces of small solar system bodies as they evolve from the trans-Neptunian region towards the inner solar System. The Project Has Two Primary Objectives 1\. Performing telescopic observations to measure the optical colors of Centaurs that are similar in size to Jupiter Family Comets (\<20 km) in order to investigate the relationship between size, color, and inferred surface proper- ties. This aspect of the project includes opportunities to use the Large Monolithic Imager on the Lowell Discovery Telescope. 2\. Searching for cometary activity by stacking archival fits images of serendipitously observed Centaurs. Qualifications And Expectations Regular meetings with project team members are expected, but in general the Assistant will be encouraged to work independently. They must be able to prioritize tasks, set schedules, troubleshoot problems, and complete complex tasks on time and within deadlines. The Research Assistant must have experience in the use of computers for analysis of data. Familiarity with the Python programming language is strongly desired. Applicants should describe in their cover letter relevant prior experience, reason for interest in this position, and how it may fit into their long-term career plans. This is expected to be a 1-year, part time temporary position supported through an existing NASA grant, with possibility for extension up to 3 years based on performance and funding availability. The Assistant will work an average of 10 hours per week, but will have flexibility in deciding the specific scheduling of hours in any given week. The Research Assistant is expected to reflect the professional and collegial environment the Observatory strives to maintain. 2 \| P a g e Experience And Education Minimum requirements for this position are to be working towards obtaining a bachelors degree in physics, astrophysics, astronomy, or related field. WORKING CONDITIONS Working in a laboratory environment, operating systems via computer interfaces as well as manual valves and switches, sometimes sitting for extended periods, working with computers for programming and data analysis tasks, and regularly meeting with team members via telecon and in person to report progress and discuss strategy. It will be necessary to move through the Flagstaff campus at 7,000 elevation, sometimes on uneven terrain. The working conditions described here represent those an employee may encounter while performing essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodation may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform Essential Functions. Status: Part Time, Temporary Term: 2026-2027 academic year Compensation: \$20.90 - \$23.86/hour Hours: Average of 10 hours/week FLSA Classification: Non-Exempt Benefit Eligible: See Below\* Location: Flagstaff, Lowell Observatorys Mars Hill Campus To Apply Please send the following documents to jobs@lowell.edu L owell Application (https://lowell.edu/about/career-opportunities/) Letter Of Interest Addressing Your Qualifications Resume Phone numbers and e-mail addresses of three professional references The deadline to apply is 9/7/2026. The hiring committee will begin their review of applications on 9/8/2026. \*Part Time employees will receive sick time accrual according to AZ state law. After 6 months of employment, part time employees are eligible to participate in a 5% match if they contribute 5% or more to their retirement plan, as well as 2 paid personal days per year. Employment is subject to passing a background check Lowell Observatory is proud to be an equal opportunity workplace and is an affirmative-action employer. We are committed to equal employment opportunity regardless of race, color, ancestry, religion, sex, national origin, sexual orientation, age, citizenship, marital status, disability, gende