The Laboratory for Extreme Multi-Messenger Astrophysics (LEMMA, https://www.queensu.ca/physics/lemma/) at Queen’s University at Kingston invites applications for a postdoctoral researcher to work with Professor Nahee Park on the HELIX (High Energy Light Isotope eXperiment) long-duration balloon experiment. HELIX is designed to measure cosmic ray isotopes at high energies with unprecedented precision. HELIX aims to cover a wide energy range using multiple flights with different detector configurations. The first-flight of the HELIX payload consists of a 1 Tesla superconducting magnet, a drift chamber, a time-of-flight system, and an aerogel ring imaging Cherenkov counter. The first flight of the HELIX is anticipated to occur in 2023 or 2024.
The successful candidate will be expected to participate in all aspects of the HELIX program, including pre-flight testing at the University of Chicago and various NASA test facilities, launch and recovery of the payload, and data analysis. The postdoctoral researcher will participate in local hardware and software development for future HELIX payloads. The postdoctoral researcher will be expected to work closely with local graduate and undergraduate students. LEMMA is participating in multi-messenger observations with the VERITAS high-energy gamma-ray observatory and the IceCube neutrino observatory, as well as detector development for future cosmic-ray and neutrino experiments. The successful candidate will participate in group discussions on multi-messenger high-energy astrophysics. LEMMA strives to build an inclusive and diverse research environment. Group members of LEMMA are invited to engage in opportunities to learn and participate in expanding equity, diversity, and inclusion in the community through educational sessions, group discussions, and outreach activities.
The successful candidate will have a Ph.D. in experimental particle astrophysics, nuclear or particle physics, space science, astronomy, or a closely related field. Experience with instrumentation/data acquisition systems, data analysis, and Monte Carlo simulations is desired.
Applicants should provide a detailed C.V., a brief statement of research interests, and arrange to have at least two letters of reference forwarded to: Prof. Nahee Park, nahee.park@queensu.ca. While applications will be accepted until the position is filled, the review of applications will begin on March 1st, 2023. Queen’s University thanks all who express an interest and advises that only those selected for an interview will be contacted.
The University invites applications from all qualified individuals. Queen's is strongly committed to employment equity, diversity, and inclusion in the workplace and encourages applications from Black, racialized/visible minority and Indigenous/Aboriginal people, women, persons with disabilities, and 2SLGBTQ+ persons.
The University has policies in place to support its employees with disabilities, including an Accommodation in the Workplace Policy and a policy on the provision of job accommodations that take into account an employee's accessibility needs due to disability. The University will provide support in its recruitment processes to applicants with disabilities, including accommodation that takes into account an applicant's accessibility needs. If you require accommodation during the interview process, please contact Prof. Nahee Park at nahee.park@queensu.ca.