APPLICATION INSTRUCTIONS:

• CURRENT PENN STATE EMPLOYEE (faculty, staff, technical service, or student), please login to Workday to complete the internal application process. Please do not apply here, apply internally through Workday.

• CURRENT PENN STATE STUDENT (not employed previously at the university) and seeking employment with Penn State, please login to Workday to complete the student application process. Please do not apply here, apply internally through Workday.

• If you are NOT a current employee or student, please click “Apply” and complete the application process for external applicants.

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 seeks to hire an undergraduate student to work part-time as a Research Assistant.   

The student researcher will be asked to assist in extragalactic technosignature searchers. Specifically, the student will analyze multiwavelength images of resolved galaxies and perform pixel-by-pixel analyses to search for signs of technological waste heat originating from all or part of the galaxy. The successful applicant will have opportunities to report their work through peer reviewed publications and presentations at the weekly PSETI Center seminar series. 

Data management and computer-based data analysis skills (e.g., Python, Matlab, or Mathematica) are required. A background in astronomy or physics is desired. The ability to work independently is required. Strong communication skills are also required to support collaborative work with the rest of the research group. The position will require meeting with members of the research team multiple times a week to discuss ongoing progress. 

The selected candidate will report to Dr. Jason Wright.  Applications will be reviewed until the position is filled. 

The Pennsylvania State University is committed to and be accountable for advancing diversity, equity, inclusion, and sustainability in all its forms. We embrace individual uniqueness, foster a culture of inclusion that supports both broad and specific diversity initiatives, leverage the educational and institutional benefits of diversity in society and nature, and engage all individuals to help them thrive. We value inclusion as a core strength and an essential element of our public service mission.

CAMPUS SECURITY CRIME STATISTICS:

Pursuant to the Jeanne C