Research Associate - Mellon College of Science - Physics Department

Carnegie Mellon University is a private, global research university that stands among the world’s most renowned education institutions. With ground-breaking brain science, path-breaking performances, creative start-ups, big data, big ambitions, hands-on learning, and a whole lot of robots, CMU doesn’t imagine the future, we invent it. If you’re passionate about joining a community that challenges the curious to deliver work that matters, your journey starts here!

The Mellon College of Science (MCS) is home to four departments and many programs and research centers that cross disciplines. We approach scientific problems from fresh angles using creative interdisciplinary approaches while drawing on our departmental strengths in the core sciences. MCS faculty members are nationally and internationally recognized for their research in a variety of fields, including polymer science, cosmology, mathematical finance, and neuroscience.

Our Physics Department is seeking a Research Associate to use Dark Energy Camera, Dark Energy Spectroscopic Instrument and/or Rubin Observatory data to identify possible multi-messenger sources and new transients with AI methods. This position is primarily based on data analysis, but an observational component may be included depending on results and telescope time availability.

Core Responsibilities

• Conduct research in time domain astrophysics in Prof. Palmese’s lab
• Attend and present results in Prof. Palmese’s lab group meetings and other relevant meetings with the group’s collaborators
• Participate in and help organize activities within the McWilliams Center for Cosmology and Astrophysics
• Identifies problems and obstacles to progress; develops strategies to solve problems.
• Participate in and help organize activities within the McWilliams Center for Cosmology and Astrophysics
• Summarizes statistical information for analysis, examination or presentation; writes technical reports. May build and validate quantitative models.
  
  

Adaptability, excellence, and passion are vital qualities within Carnegie Mellon University. We are in search of a team member who can effectively interact with a varied population of internal and external partners at a high level of integrity. We are looking for someone who shares our values and who will support the mission of the university through their work.

Qualifications:

• Bachelor’s Degree required.
• Minimum 1 year of research experience in observational time domain astrophysics related to gravitational wave data and/or optical astronomical transients.
• Experience with applications of AI tools to astronomical data or AI college courses.
• Strong analytical, communication, problem-solving, and reasoning skills.
• A combination of education and proven experience from which comparable knowledge is demonstrated may be considered.
  
  

Requirements:

• Successful completion of a pre-employment background check
  
  

Additional Information:

• Typical Work Schedule: Required to work normal business hours; night and weekend work may occasionally be required where needed for observing campaigns.
  
  

Joining the CMU team opens the door to an array of exceptional benefits.

Benefits eligible employees enjoy a wide array of benefits including comprehensive medical, prescription, dental, and vision insurance as well as a generous retirement savings program with employer contributions. Unlock your potential with tuition benefits, take well-deserved breaks with ample paid time off and observed holidays, and rest easy with life and accidental death and disability insurance.

Additional perks include a free Pittsburgh Regional Transit bus pass, access to our Family Concierge Team to help navigate childcare needs, fitness center access, and much more!

For a comprehensive overview of the benefits available, explore our Benefits page.

At Carnegie Mellon, we value the whole package when extending offers of employment. Beyond credentials, we evaluate the role and responsibilities, your valuable work experience, and the knowledge gained through education and training. We appreciate your unique skills and the perspective you bring. Your journey with us is about more than just a job; it’s about finding the perfect fit for your professional growth and personal aspirations.

Are you interested in an exciting opportunity with an exceptional organization?! Apply today!

Location

Pittsburgh, PA

Job Function

Researchers

Position Type

Staff – Regular

Full Time/Part time

Full time

Pay Basis

Hourly

More Information:

• Please visit “Why Carnegie Mellon” to learn more about becoming part of an institution inspiring innovations that change the world.
• Click here to view a listing of employee benefits
• Carnegie Mellon University is an Equal Opportunity Employer/Disability/Veteran.
• Statement of Assurance