Postdoctoral Scholar - Particle Astrophysics - Wissel Lab

The Pennsylvania State University; State College (Centre County); On-site; USD 60,000 - 70,000; Full time

Job summary

The Pennsylvania State University seeks a postdoctoral researcher in the Particle Astrophysics group to work with Prof. Stephanie Wissel on experimental searches for the highest energy neutrinos and multi-messenger astronomy.

The successful candidate will contribute to the radio detection of ultra-high-energy neutrinos with HERON, help build the phased-array system, and participate in analysis, simulations, and field campaigns to Argentina.

Qualifications

• PhD in Physics, Astrophysics, or related field is required.

Responsibilities

• Contribute to UHE radio neutrino experiments.
• Develop novel instrumentation and expand HERON capabilities.
• Develop analysis techniques calibrating instruments and enhancing sensitivity to astrophysical and cosmogenic neutrinos.
• Mentor junior scholars, including graduate and undergraduate students, and engage in outreach to the public.

Skills

Radio instrumentation

Astrophysics research

Data analysis

Education

PhD in Physics or Astrophysics

Job description

This is a term position; the length of the term will be discussed during the interview process. Continuation beyond the term length will be based on university need, performance, and/or availability of funding.

Position Specifications

The Particle Astrophysics group at Penn State seeks a postdoctoral researcher to work with Prof. Stephanie Wissel on experimental searches for the highest energy neutrinos, multi‑messenger astronomy, and particle astrophysics.

The candidate will explore the radio detection of ultra‑high‑energy neutrinos with the Hybrid Elevated Radio Observatory for Neutrinos (HERON). They will play a leading role in building the phased‑array system for HERON and use it to search for tau neutrinos from a high‑elevation mountain. The postdoctoral scholar will conduct research through instrument development, and also contribute to analysis, simulations, and monitoring. Opportunities for field campaigns to the site in Argentina exist. Previous experience in radio instrumentation and/or particle astrophysics is advantageous, but not required.

Responsibilities

• Contribute to UHE radio neutrino experiments.
• Develop novel instrumentation and expand the capabilities of HERON.
• Develop analysis techniques that calibrate instruments and enhance their sensitivity to astrophysical and cosmogenic neutrinos.
• Mentor junior scholars, including graduate and undergraduate students, and engage in outreach to the public.

Qualifications

A PhD in Physics, Astrophysics, or a related field is required.

Applications must be submitted electronically and include a CV, a cover letter, and a brief statement of research interests. Two reference letters should be submitted through Academic Jobs Online. Review of applications will begin immediately and continue until a suitable candidate is found.

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 well‑being. For postdoctoral benefits, please see the dedicated Postdoctoral Benefits page.

EEO Statement

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.

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