Postdoctoral Scholar - Particle Astrophysics - Wissel Lab

Application Instructions

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

If selected, you will explore the radio detection of ultra‑high‑energy neutrinos with the Hybrid Elevated Radio Observatory for Neutrinos (HERON). You will lead the building of 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 will also contribute to analysis, simulations, and monitoring.

There will be opportunities for field campaigns to the site in Argentina. Previous experience in radio instrumentation and/or particle astrophysics is advantageous but not required.

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

The candidate will be embedded in the Wissel Lab, which includes researchers who work on several experiments deployed worldwide, including in Antarctica and Greenland. Experiments such as the Askaryan Radio Array (ARA) and the future radio component of Ice Cube‑Gen2 at the South Pole and the Radio Neutrino Observatory in Greenland (RNO‑G) search for EeV‑scale neutrinos with antennas deployed in polar ice.

Balloon‑borne experiments like the Payload for Ultra‑high‑Energy Observations (PUEO) and P  search for neutrino interactions in the ice and for up‑going tau neutrinos from high altitude.

A PhD in Physics, Astrophysics, or a related field is required. Applications must be submitted electronically and include a CV, cover letter, and brief statement of research interests. Applicants should arrange for two reference letters to be submitted through Academic Jobs Online. Review of applications will begin immediately and continue until a suitable candidate is found.

Employment with the University will require successful completion of background check(s) in accordance with University policies.

Penn State provides a competitive benefits package for full‑time employees designed to support personal and professional well‑being. For more detailed information, visit our Benefits Page. (For Postdoctoral benefits, see our Postdoctoral Benefits page.)

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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