Research Data Support Specialist II, Lunar and Planetary Laboratory (Temporary)

The Lunar and Planetary Laboratory (LPL) is a world leader in space science, technology, and exploration, dedicated to advancing the fundamental understanding of the origin and evolution of the Sun, planetary bodies in our solar system, and planetary systems beyond. LPL achieves excellence through cutting-edge research and teaching while mentoring the next generation of planetary scientists. As a multidisciplinary and interdisciplinary community, LPL fosters an environment that advances science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) research, education, and public engagement, where everyone can thrive.

The University of Arizona’s Lunar and Planetary Laboratory invites you to apply for the role of Research Data Support Specialist II. In this position, you will support advanced exoplanet research in preparation for the upcoming Roman Space Telescope mission. You will investigate the occurrence rates of young (100-500 Myr), close-in exoplanets, contributing to a deeper understanding of planetary formation and early system evolution.

Visa sponsorship is not available for this position.

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• Conduct literature searches and prepare summaries of scientific publications utilizing 50 papers in an Overleaf document, highlighting methodologies, datasets, and findings for review by the principal investigator.
• Familiarize yourself with Boyle’s catalogue.
• Develop and maintain Python scripts to load, organize, query, and extract data from astronomical catalogs, including the identification of subsets based on established selection criteria (e.g., stellar rotation and effective temperature).
• Apply stellar rotation-age relationships designated by the project lead from the scientific literature and implement approved methodologies for age estimation (these can be stellar temperature-dependent), including the Application of documented uncertainty calculations.
• Generate data products, statistical summaries, tables, and figures to characterize young 100-500 Myr samples within specified age ranges and support comparisons between GBTDS and TESS datasets.
• Document findings and present results to research personnel for evaluation and interpretation.
• Collaborate with other researchers on the team and present at team meetings.

Knowledge,
Skills, and Abilities (KSAs):

• Python proficiency: Demonstrated proficiency in using Python for scientific computing, astrophysical data analysis, and the development of reproducible, research-grade workflows for large astronomical datasets (e.g., time-series or survey data).
• Attention to detail: Strong ability to ensure scientific accuracy and quality control, including the reliability, traceability, and validation of results derived from complex datasets and research workflows.
• Communication skills: Ability to clearly communicate technical and scientific information both verbally and in writing, including the documentation of analysis methods and results, and collaboration within multidisciplinary research teams supporting space- and mission-based science.

This job posting reflects the general nature and level of work expected of the selected candidate(s). It is not intended to be an exhaustive list of all duties and responsibilities. The institution reserves the right to amend or update this description as organizational priorities and institutional needs evolve.

• High school diploma or high school diploma equivalency is
  required.
• Minimum of 3 years of relevant experience required.