Research Assistant
Caltech
Job Category: Fulltime Regular
Caltech
Exempt Overtime Eligible: Overtime Eligible
Benefits Eligible: Benefit Based
Caltech is a world-renowned science and engineering institute that marshals some of the world's brightest minds and most innovative tools to address fundamental scientific questions. We thrive on finding and cultivating talented people who are passionate about what they do. Join us and be a part of the diverse Caltech community.
Job Summary
The position is full-time and located on Campus, under the supervision of Nemanja Jovanovic. The candidate will assist with three main tasks:
- Participate in the design, setup, and execution of photonic characterization experiments, and analyze data in collaboration with the photonics team. The candidate will design and build telescope interfaces to test the photonic instruments.
- Support mechanical switch testing experiments to de-risk the technology for the HISPEC project. This includes running experiments, analyzing data, designing, and executing follow-up experiments.
- Supporting the detectors and electronics group by assembling wiring harnesses, soldering cable assemblies, testing electronics for low-temperature survival and functionality prior to Antarctic deployment, and supporting the advanced characterization of detectors.
Essential Job Duties
The candidate will work under the direction of members of the OIR Instrumentation group to collaborate on:
- The characterization of photonic components. Responsibilities will include setup and execution of photonic characterization experiments, data analysis and design, and build and field testing of telescope interfaces for said photonic technologies.
- The evaluation and qualification of mechanical fiber switchers. Responsibilities will include the setup and execution of single-mode fiber switching experiments, data analysis, and follow-up experiments.
- The assembly of cable harnesses and electronic systems for the test and validation of advanced detector systems.
- Operate electronics in the environmental chamber, and gather and analyze data to validate functionality.
Basic Qualifications
- Bachelor's degree in physics, Science, Electrical Engineering or similar.
- Competence in photonic characterization.
- Experience and knowledge in safe fiber handling practices.
- Competence with basic laboratory test equipment.
- Ability to solder and read wiring diagrams.
- Ability to analyze data sets (using Python for example).
- Be able to lift 20 pounds or more.
Preferred Qualifications
- Familiarity with single-mode fiber injection into photonic integrated circuits.
- Familiarity with electrical wiring and driving active photonic circuits.
- Familiarity with operating sophisticated test equipment and automation.
- Demonstrated competency in data reduction and mechanism control.
- Willingness to read and follow detailed instructions, the diligence to make careful measurements, to work patiently to solve problems, and to document the work done.
- Competency in report writing is desirable, so good scores in courses requiring essay writing, or some manifestation of good communication skills will be considered a plus.
Required Documents
- Resume
To be considered for this position please visit our web site and apply on line at the following link: https://hr.caltech.edu/work/job_openings
We are an equal opportunity employer and all qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, disability status, protected veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by law.
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