Assistant/Associate Research Professor in Astronomy and Astrophysics

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Approval of remote and hybrid work is not guaranteed regardless of work location. For additional information on remote work at Penn State, see Notice to Out of State Applicants .

This 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.

POSITION SPECIFICS

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.

The successful candidate will be responsible for undertaking research involving nanofabrication of diffraction gratings and application to future missions. The research involves creating reflection gratings for UV and X-ray applications on a variety of substrates with a variety of groove directions and shapes. The successful candidate will be responsible for performing the various nanofabrication techniques required to fabricate such gratings 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. It is expected that the candidate will disseminate their research through refereed publications and conference talks. It is also expected that the candidate will contribute to studies specific to future missions such as the Habitable Worlds Observatory and help write proposals for related funding support.

Education and Experience

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. Applicants must have demonstrated ability as a researcher and should have a record of successful grant funding.

Additional Information

Applications must be submitted electronically and include a cover letter, CV, statement of research interests, and a list of publications. In addition, 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.

BACKGROUND CHECKS/CLEARANCES

Employment with the University will require successful completion of background check(s) in accordance with University policies.

BENEFITS

Penn State provides a competitive benefits package for full-time employees designed to support both personal and professional wellbeing. In addition to comprehensive medical, dental, and vision coverage, employees enjoy robust retirement plans. One of the standout benefits is the generous 75% tuition discount, available to employees as well as eligible spouses and children.

For more detailed information, please visit our Benefits Page. (Note: For Postdoctoral benefits, please see our Postdoctoral Benefits page.)

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