Research Assistant, Visiting (ART-XC)

The USRA Science and Technology Institute (STI) is seeking a short-term, full-time Research Assistant to join the team in Huntsville, Al. This position will work the Astronomical Roentgen Telescope – X-ray Concentrator (ART-XC) team. ART-XC is one of two instruments aboard the Spectrum-Roentgen-Gamma high-energy astrophysics observatory. This candidate will work on projects focusing on Active Galactic Nuclei and galaxy clusters. The candidate will use data from ART-XC, NuSTAR, Chandra, and other multi-wavelength facilities. 

Essential Duties/Responsibilities: 

• Will assist with X-ray imaging and spectroscopic analysis of extragalactic sources detected in the ART-XC North Ecliptic Pole Survey.
• Will assist with the preparation of the manuscript of the research project to be submitted peer-reviewed journals. 
• Participate and assist with other scientific activities at USRA and MSFC as needed.

Education:  Bachelor’s degree in astronomy, physics, or a related science or engineering discipline.

Experience:  Candidates with prior experience in UNIX systems, scientific programming with python, analyzing NuSTAR and Chandra data and knowledge in extragalactic astrophysics are highly preferred. 

Knowledge, Skills & Abilities:  

1. Knowledge in high-energy astrophysics and some expertise in X-ray data analysis, UNIX system, and programming language such as python.
2. Excellent written and verbal communication skills.  
3. Excellent time management skills and ability to multi-task and prioritize work.
4. Attention to detail and problem-solving skills.
5. Strong organizational and planning skills.
6. Obtaining and seeing to the appropriate use of equipment, facilities, and materials needed to perform work.
7. Administrative and clerical procedures and systems such as word processing, database, spreadsheet, and managing files and records, and other office procedures and terminology.
8. Business and management principles involved in strategic planning, resource allocation, production methods, and coordination of people and resources.
9. Listen to and understand information and ideas presented through spoken words and sentences.
10. Ability to take direction and work independently.

Technology:

1. HEASoft
2. Python
3. UNIX system

Telecommute: Available

Travel:  May involve presenting the research results at a professional conference.

Citizenship: Must be a US Citizen

Working Conditions: This job operates in a professional office environment. This role routinely uses standard office equipment such as computers, phones, photocopiers, etc. extensive online usage. This is largely a sedentary role.

Applicants should apply for the position at USRA Careers and include a letter of interest, resume, or curriculum vitae. Additional information on USRA can be found at www.usra.edu. 

USRA is an Equal Opportunity Employer: Minorities / Females / Protected Veterans / Disabled / Sexual Orientation / Gender Identity.