Student Research Assistant- Pool

Position Overview

This role investigates techniques for calibrating and optimizing the sensitivity of cosmic‑ray detector facilities based on measurements of radio‑frequency signals generated by interactions of cosmic rays with ice molecules.

• Design, measurement, and calibration of instrumentation used to detect ultra‑high‑energy neutrinos;
• Measurement of the radio‑frequency transmission properties of cold polar ice;
• Calibration of radio‑frequency instrumentation both prior to and following deployment;
• Direct searches for cosmic rays using radio techniques.

In addition, participants engage in astrobiological initiatives exploring correlations between cosmic‑ray exposure and organismal metabolism. The hired individual will contribute to one or more of these efforts.

• Conduct advanced research focused on the design, measurement, and calibration of scientific instruments used in cosmic‑ray and neutrino detection.
• Develop experimental setups, analyze data, troubleshoot equipment, and ensure precision in calibration processes to optimize detector sensitivity.

• Attend regular research team meetings to share progress, discuss technical challenges, and contribute to collaborative problem‑solving.
• Provide input on experimental design and project planning.

• Prepare and deliver presentations of research findings to internal teams and external collaborators.
• Interpret experimental data, draft technical reports, and contribute to publications or conference presentations.

• Completed introductory college physics coursework, or equivalent, as indicated on application materials.

• Prior experience coding in C++ and/or Python, familiarity with Linux and shell scripting languages, as indicated on application materials.

During the semester term of the appointment, the student hourly must be enrolled in no fewer than 6 credit hours. For summer periods the student hourly must: (1) have been enrolled in no less than 6 hours in the past spring semester or (2) be pre‑enrolled in the upcoming fall semester in no less than 6 hours or (3) be enrolled in summer session or (4) be admitted to study in the upcoming fall semester.

Student Hourlies may be undergraduate or graduate students. Exceptions granted for GRA/GTA/GA appointments do not apply to Student Hourly appointments.

• This is an hourly/non‑exempt position. A student employee cannot hold an hourly/non‑exempt position and a salaried/exempt graduate or undergraduate position (GRA/GTA/GA/RUA/RGA) concurrently.

A complete application includes a cover letter and a resume or CV. Apply online and submit a letter describing your qualifications for this position. Review of applications will continue until qualified candidates are identified through May 13th, 2026. Anticipated start date is as soon as possible. Only complete applications will be considered. Contact information:
Dave Besson, zedlam.

$15.00/hour