Research Technician

Department

PSD Astronomy & Astrophysics: Administration and Staff

About the Department

The Department of Astronomy and Astrophysics offers undergraduate (B.A., B.S.) and graduate (Ph.D.) degrees in Astrophysics, with a program for non-STEM undergraduates leading to a Minor in Astronomy and Astrophysics. The department has 32 teaching faculty, in addition to emeriti and research faculty.

Job Summary

We are looking for a Research Technician that will perform modeling of exoplanet atmospheres, including equilibrium chemistry modeling of cloud formation using the FastChem program.

Responsibilities

• Conduct and analyze condensates that form in exoplanet atmospheres under different compositional scenarios using an equilibrium chemistry framework with rainout.

• Perform condensation curve profiles relevant for hot Jupiter exoplanets.

• Analyzes and maintains data and/or specimens.

• Assists with building and standardizing protocols, as needed.

• Builds competence in relevant research techniques or methods.

• Write up a scientific journal article describing results.

• Perform other exoplanet atmosphere modeling tasks, as relevant to interpret JWST results.

• Provides technical and administrative support for a research project.

• Collects and enters data. Assists in analyzing data. Assists with preparation of reports, manuscripts, and other documents.

• Assists with the installation, sets up and performs experiments, interacting with students and other laboratory staff under the direction of the principal investigator.

• Performs other related work as needed.

Minimum Qualifications

Education:

Minimum requirements include vocational training, apprenticeships or the equivalent experience in related field (not typically required to have a four-year degree).

Work Experience:

Minimum requirements include knowledge and skills developed through 2-5 years of work experience in a related job discipline.

Certifications:

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Preferred Qualifications

Education:         

• Bachelor degree in related field.

Experience:       

• Experience in scientific research in physics, astronomy, or a related field.

Technical Knowledge or Skills:

• Python programming experience: plotting data and database management.

Preferred Competencies

• Knowledge of astronomy and physics at the level of advanced collegiate courses.
• Ability to synthesize and communicate scientific results for academic journals.
• Experience with python programming.
• Experience with the FastChem equilibrium chemistry code.
• Understanding of rainout chemistry approximation for exoplanet cloud formation.

Application Documents

• Resume or CV (required)
• References (required)

When applying, the document(s) MUST be uploaded via the My Experience page, in the section titled Application Documents of the application.

Job Family

Research

Role Impact

Individual Contributor

Scheduled Weekly Hours

37.5

Drug Test Required

No

Health Screen Required

No

Motor Vehicle Record Inquiry Required

No

Pay Rate Type

Hourly

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FLSA Status

Non-Exempt

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Pay Range

$25.00

The included pay rate or range represents the University’s good faith estimate of the possible compensation offer for this role at the time of posting.

Benefits Eligible

Yes

The University of Chicago offers a wide range of benefits programs and resources for eligible employees, including health, retirement, and paid time off. Information about the benefit offerings can be found in the Benefits Guidebook.

Posting Statement

The University of Chicago is an equal opportunity employer and does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender, gender identity, or expression, national or ethnic origin, shared ancestry, age, status as an individual with a disability, military or veteran status, genetic information, or other protected classes under the law. For additional information please see the University's Notice of Nondiscrimination.

 

Job seekers in need of a reasonable accommodation to complete the application process should call 773-702-5800 or submit a request via Applicant Inquiry Form.

 

All offers of employment are contingent upon a background check that includes a review of conviction history.  A conviction does not automatically preclude University employment.  Rather, the University considers conviction information on a case-by-case basis and assesses the nature of the offense, the circumstances surrounding it, the proximity in time of the conviction, and its relevance to the position.

 

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