Research Associate 4 or 5 (Laser Interferometer Gravitational-Wave Observatory (LIGO))

The LSU Department of Physics and Astronomy is looking for a talented individual to work on scientific computing for the Laser Interferometer Gravitational-Wave Observatory (LIGO) Scientific Collaboration (www.ligo.org). The person in this position will work on scientific computing for the LIGO Data Grid used by the LIGO Scientific Collaboration (LSC), collaborating closely with colleagues in University of Wisconsin at Milwaukee and other institutions. Specifically, the person will help to maintain and develop a suite of python-based tools for detector characterization, including the GWpy package and related tools (https://gwpy.github.io). Additionally, they will maintain and help to develop online monitors and processes to provide minute-latency and daily reports on detector performance (LIGO “summary pages”), as well as follow-up tools to enable rapid examination of low-latency gravitational-wave event candidates. Furthermore, the person will assist in the development and operations of web-based tools for data processing. Candidates should be proficient in Python programming, packaging and development, as well as familiar with C and Java, and preferably have experience with visualization, scientific workflow management, and database technology.

LSU’s gravity research group includes a large group of experimental faculty (Thomas Corbitt, Joseph Giaime, Gabriela González, Warren Johnson) and a number of postdocs and students. We interact closely with LSU faculty in astrophysics, theoretical gravity, and quantum information; as well as with scientists at the LIGO Livingston Observatory (LLO). We are active in data analysis and diagnostics of the LIGO detectors, and in the development of technology for next-generation detector. We have contributed to the improved sensitivity of Advanced LIGO instruments that enabled the current era of gravitational waves astronomy. Since our campus is only 42km from LLO, we also play an important role in the day-to-day detector commissioning and characterization.

Research Associate (4 or 5): The LSU Department of Physics and Astronomy is looking for a talented individual to work on scientific computing for the Laser Interferometer Gravitational-Wave Observatory (LIGO) Scientific Collaboration. The person in this position will work on scientific computing for the LIGO Data Grid used by the LIGO Scientific Collaboration (LSC), collaborating closely with colleagues in University of Wisconsin at Milwaukee and other institutions. Specifically, the person will help to maintain and develop a suite of python-based tools for detector characterization, including the GWpy package and related tools (https://gwpy.github.io). Additionally, they will maintain and help to develop online monitors and processes to provide minute-latency and daily reports on detector performance (LIGO “summary pages”), as well as follow-up tools to enable rapid examination of low-latency gravitational-wave event candidates. Furthermore, the person will assist in the development and operations of web-based tools for data processing.

Research Associate 4 Job Responsibilities: Work on scientific computing for the LIGO Data Grid used by the LIGO Scientific Collaboration (LSC), collaborating closely with colleagues in University of Wisconsin at Milwaukee and other institutions. Specifically, the person will help to maintain and develop a suite of python-based tools for detector characterization, including the GWpy package and related tools (https://gwpy.github.io). (80%)

Maintain and help to develop online monitors and processes to provide minute-latency and daily reports on detector performance (LIGO “summary pages”), as well as follow-up tools to enable rapid examination of low-latency gravitational-wave event candidates. Assist in the development and operations of web-based tools for data processing. (20%)

Research Associate 5 Job Responsibilities: This senior-level position will work autonomously and independently on scientific computing for the Laser Interferometer Gravitational-Wave Observatory (LIGO) Data Grid used by the LIGO Scientific Collaboration (LSC), collaborating closely with colleagues in University of Wisconsin at Milwaukee and other institutions. Specifically, the person will help to maintain and develop a suite of python-based tools for detector characterization, including the GWpy package and related tools (https://gwpy.github.io). (80%)

Oversee and develop online monitors and processes to provide minute-latency and daily reports on detector performance (LIGO “summary pages”), as well as follow-up tools to enable rapid examination of low-latency gravitational-wave event candidates. Assist in the development and operations of web-based tools for data processing. (15%)

Assist with mentoring undergraduate and graduate students. Other duties as assigned (5%).

Minimum qualifications

• Research Associate 4: Masters in physics or related field with 1-2 years science research experience.
• Research Associate 5: Ph.D. in physics or related field with 1 year of science research experience.
• (Both) Proficient in Python programming, packaging and development, as well as familiarity with C, and/or Java (LDVW).

Preferred qualifications

Experience with virtualization, scientific workflow management, database technology is desirable, but not required.

Additional job description

Special instructions
Please attach ALL required documents under the “Resume/CV” section of your application. Please provide letter of application, resume, and three professional references including name, title, phone number and e-mail address.

A copy of your transcript(s) may be attached to your application (if available). However, original transcripts are required prior to hire.

Please email any questions to Gabriela Gonzalez, gonzalez@lsu.edu.

Closing Ddte (Open Until Filled if No Date Specified):

Additional position information

• Background Check – An offer of employment is contingent on a satisfactory pre-employment background check.
• Benefits – LSU offers outstanding benefits to eligible employees and their dependents including health, life, dental, and vision insurance; flexible spending accounts; retirement options; various leave options; paid holidays; wellness benefits; tuition exemption for qualified positions; training and development opportunities; employee discounts; and more!

LSU is an Equal Opportunity Employer
LSU believes diversity, equity, and inclusion enrich the educational experience of our students, faculty, and staff, and are necessary to prepare all people to thrive personally and professionally in a global society. We celebrate diversity and are committed to the principles of diversity and inclusion. We actively seek and encourage qualified applications from persons with diverse backgrounds, cultures and experiences. To learn more about how LSU is committed to diversity and inclusivity, please see LSU’s Diversity Statement and Roadmap. Persons needing accommodations or assistance with the accessibility of materials related to this search are encouraged to contact the Office of Human Resource Management (hr@lsu.edu).

HCM contact information
Questions or concerns can be directed to the LSU Human Resources Management Office at 225-578-8200 or emailed HR@lsu.edu.