Science Intern

General Description Of Position

The science intern will carry out cutting-edge research on cold brown dwarfs. The intern will assist in the reduction, analysis, and interpretation of recently acquired data from the James Webb Space Telescope (JWST).

Essential Functions

• Work closely with NOIRLab Astronomer to reduce and analyze JWST infrared imaging and/or spectroscopy of cold brown dwarfs.
• Utilize astronomical software and Python-based pipelines to process and extract scientific measurements from JWST datasets.
• Assist with early analysis of the spectral and photometric properties of these extremely cool, substellar objects.
• Help prepare figures, documentation and results for scientific presentations and publications.
• All AURA employees are responsible for the proper management and control of all AURA property within their work area, whether assigned to them or someone else. This responsibility includes reporting any known missing, stolen, or non-working property in their work area to their supervisor or the AURA Property Officer.
• Responsible for ensuring compliance with government award terms and conditions assigned to this position or subordinates of this position as defined in the Vela Award Management system, https://cas.aura-astronomy.org/Awards.

Other Functions

• Other duties as assigned

Required Education/Experience/Skills/Abilities

• Enrolled in a bachelor’s program in a relevant field, or have a recent Bachelor's (or higher) degree in relevant field (astronomy, computer science)
• Studying toward or recent recipient of a university degree in astronomy, physics, computer science, data science, or a related technical field
• Background knowledge of astronomy and physics: stars, planets, brown dwarfs, mechanics, and optics
• Basic coding/scripting (for example in Python and/or bash) to automate analysis/transfer of data sets and make scientific plots/visualizations
• Must possess good English communication skills (written and verbal)
• Self-motivated, ability to work with minimal supervision

Preferred Education/Experience/Skills/Abilities

• Prior astronomy research experience
• Prior experience working with infrared astronomical data or space telescope data (e.g., JWST, HST, Spitzer, WISE)
• Familiarity with photometric and/or spectroscopic data reduction techniques

Physical Demands

• The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job.
• Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.
• Must be able to remain in a stationary position at least 50% of the time.
• Occasionally need to move about inside the office environment to access files, office tools, attend meetings, etc.
• Constantly operates a computer and other office productivity tools that require fine motor skills, such as a calculator, copier, computer printer, etc.
• May occasionally need to position self to maintain computer and related tools.
• Seldomly needed to move objects up to 10 pounds.
• Constant communication with other individuals.
• Must be able to discern and exchange information as appropriate to the situation.
• Constant need to distinguish, discern, and identify a variety of objects and fine details with accuracy.
• Occasional work at high elevation summit sites may be required (summit elevations range from 6,800 feet to 14,000 feet).

Salary Range

$17.20 per hour.

How to Apply

Apply by May 24, 2026 for priority consideration. This position will remain open until it is filled. Please submit a cover letter and a CV or resume, PDF files preferred. Please name any attachments with the following format: Lastname Docname.

Individuals needing assistance with the employment process can request assistance here.