Centaur Research Assistant

About the Role

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.

Project Objectives

• 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 properties. This aspect of the project includes opportunities to use the Large Monolithic Imager on the Lowell Discovery Telescope.
• Searching for cometary activity by stacking archival fits images of serendipitously observed Centaurs.

Responsibilities

• Work independently to solve problems while making adequate progress under supervision
• Participate in regular meetings with project team members
• Prioritize tasks, set schedules, troubleshoot problems, and complete complex tasks on time and within deadlines

Qualifications

• Must be working towards obtaining a bachelors degree in physics, astrophysics, astronomy, or related field
• Experience in the use of computers for analysis of data
• Familiarity with the Python programming language is strongly desired
• Ability to work independently and prioritize tasks
• Must reflect the professional and collegial environment the Observatory strives to maintain

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
• Regularly meeting with team members via telecon and in person to report progress and discuss strategy
• Moving through the Flagstaff campus at 7,000 elevation, sometimes on uneven terrain

Pay and Schedule

• Compensation: $20.90 - $23.86/hour
• Average of 10 hours/week, with flexibility in deciding the specific scheduling of hours in any given week
• Expected to be a 1-year, part time temporary position with possibility for extension up to 3 years based on performance and funding availability
• Term: 2026-2027 academic year

Benefits

• 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
• 2 paid personal days per year after 6 months of employment

Application Instructions

Please send the following documents to jobs@lowell.edu:

• Lowell Application (available at 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. Employment is subject to passing a background check.