Research Associate, Data Scientist, Research Scientist

Position Information

• Title:
  
  Research Associate
• Department:
  Department of Physics
• Open to:
  All Applicants
• Weekly scheduled hours: 40
• FLSA Status:
  Exempt
• Earliest
  
  Start Date:
  
  Immediately
• Position Duration:
  Expected to continue until May 01, 2026
• Location:
  
  UT MAIN CAMPUS

The College of Natural Sciences at UT Austin strives to foster a work environment that enables all employees to contribute at the highest possible level to support the mission of the University. What starts here really does change the world. For more information about the College of Natural Sciences, please visit (Use the "Apply for this Job" box below)..

The Department of Physics plays a pivotal role in the advancing of knowledge, nurturing the next generation of physicists and making a lasting impact on the world of physics.

The university offers an impressive benefits package including:

• Employer‑paid health insurance (employee premiums covered at 100%; spouse and family premiums at 50%)
• Dental, vision, life and disability insurance options
• Paid vacation and sick leave
• Paid holidays
• Retirement plan

The research associate will conduct independent and collaborative research in gravitational wave data analysis and astrophysics under the supervision of Professor Digvijay (Jay) Wadekar. The research associate will contribute to ongoing projects analyzing data from LIGO, Virgo, and KAGRA gravitational wave detectors to detect and characterize signals from compact object mergers. Responsibilities include developing data analysis and artificial intelligence methodologies, performing statistical inference on gravitational wave events, contributing to astrophysical population studies, and publishing results in peer-reviewed journals.

The postdoc will also participate in scientific collaborations, present research at conferences, and may contribute to mentoring graduate students.

This position is funded for two years, with a third year contingent upon the availability of continued funding.

• Conduct original research in gravitational wave data analysis and astrophysics
• Develop and implement advanced data analysis algorithms and artificial intelligence methods
• Analyze data from LIGO/Virgo/KAGRA detectors to search for and characterize gravitational wave signals
• Collaborate with other research groups at UT Austin
• Publish research findings in peer‑reviewed scientific journals
• Present research at national and international conferences
• Participate in group meetings and scientific discussions
• Assist with mentoring graduate students (as appropriate) and contribute to proposal writing and research planning

Completion of a PhD in Physics, Astronomy, Data Science or a related field at least 2 years prior to the start of the position.

Experience with artificial intelligence tools and knowledge of gravitational wave theory and data analysis software.

$72,000

• Some lifting and moving of equipment may be required.
• May work in standard office conditions.

• Resume/CV
• Cover Letter
• 3 Letters of Reference

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