Research assistant – casual position
Start date: February, 2022
Application deadline: Will remain until filled
Supervisor: Martin Connors
Faculty: Faculty of Science and Technology / Centre for Science
Location: Based in Athabasca, Alberta, but work will mostly be done remotely
Status: Casual position – hours will be determined upon discussion with the supervisor
Statistical Analysis of Magnetic and Electric Data
Overview
This position will apply statistical techniques to analysis of magnetic and electric data. Relevant techniques include autocorrelation and cross-correlation in the time and Fourier domains.
Specific activities include, but are not limited to
- Determination of correlative properties of time series of magnetic and electric data
- Noise analysis
- Implementation of algorithms in a standard scientific framework
- Reporting results in a form informing research and development
- Participation in reporting results in the scientific literature
This project will allow the candidate to use statistical techniques for data analysis in an environment in which data is actively acquired. Senior undergraduate level statistical analysis is not normally done in the field of application.
The successful candidate will work with, and directly report to, Dr. Martin Connors at Athabasca University. Interaction with the Observatory Researcher, Ian Schofield, is also anticipated.
Qualifications
Successful candidates will be nearing completion of a degree in applied mathematics which includes senior statistical courses, or recently have completed such a degree. Competence with computing is needed, preferably in a Linux environment using C and shell script. Comparable approaches in other scientifically used environments will be considered, which might be Mathematica, Maple, or MATLAB/Octave. Excel is not generally considered usable for scientific purposes. The candidate should be willing to use their own computer.
The position is based in Athabasca, Alberta, but work will mostly be done remotely. Casual hours will be determined upon discussion with the supervisor, including about specific development projects and how much time they should require.
How to apply
Qualified individuals are encouraged to submit their application by email to Dr. Martin Connors at martinc@athabascau.ca. Applications should include (as a single PDF file) a brief cover letter that summarizes your skills, interests and experience; a current resume or curriculum vitae; information on formal training in astronomy; and the contact information for 1-2 references.
Evaluation of applications will begin immediately and will continue until a suitable candidate is found. All applicants are thanked for their interest in this position; however, only candidates selected for an interview will be contacted.
Athabasca University and the researchers are committed and seek to support equity in employment and research opportunities. We strongly encourage applications from Indigenous people, people of colour, people with disabilities, 2SLGBTQ+ people, women, and other historically marginalized groups. Applicants are welcome, but not required, to self-identify in their letter of application.
For more information on this Research Assistant Opportunity, please contact Martin Connors, PhD at the coordinates below, on or before Feb. 15 2022. Applications will be accepted until (15/2/2022) or until a suitable candidate is found.
Martin Connors
Centre for Science
Athabasca University
martinc@athabascau.ca