Posted:
5/31/2026, 5:00:00 PM
Location(s):
Ferguson Township, Pennsylvania, United States ⋅ Pennsylvania, United States
Experience Level(s):
Junior ⋅ Mid Level ⋅ Senior
Field(s):
Data & Analytics
Workplace Type:
Hybrid
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.
JOB DESCRIPTION AND POSITION REQUIREMENTS
The Department of Astronomy and Astrophysics is seeking applicants for the part-time job of Research Assistant for the summer.
Job duties will include one of the following:
Analyze JWST timeseries spectra of an M dwarf, determine the source of periodic signals, model the periodicity of the signals, and write up results
Assist with developing void catalogs using HETDEX survey data and using stellar population synthesis techniques to study how galaxy evolution evolves within the context of the cosmic web.
Compiling and analyzing published exoplanet mass and radius measurements across different stellar populations. Investigating how exoplanet density distributions vary with stellar type and evolutionary environment. Performing statistical analysis and visualization of exoplanet composition trends using Python-based tools. Assisting with literature review and interpretation of results related to planet formation and protoplanetary disk evolution.
Schedule:
Expected hours will be approximately 20 hours/week for 10 weeks.
Compensation:
The starting rate for this job is $15/hour.
The selected candidates will report to their Postdoctoral Scholar, but the supervisor in Workday will be Jennifer Marsh. Applications will be reviewed 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.
CAMPUS SECURITY CRIME STATISTICS
Pursuant to the Jeanne Clery Disclosure of Campus Security Policy and Campus Crime Statistics Act and the Pennsylvania Act of 1988, Penn State publishes a combined Annual Security and Annual Fire Safety Report (ASR). The ASR includes crime statistics and institutional policies concerning campus security, such as those concerning alcohol and drug use, crime prevention, the reporting of crimes, sexual assault, and other matters. The ASR is available for review here.
EEO IS THE LAW
Penn State is an equal opportunity employer and is committed to providing employment opportunities to all qualified applicants without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability or protected veteran status. If you are unable to use our online application process due to an impairment or disability, please contact 814-865-1473.
Website: https://www.arl.psu.edu/
Headquarter Location: Sharon, Pennsylvania, United States
Employee Count: 251-500
Year Founded: 1855
IPO Status: Private