Research Assistant

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Job Summary

The Research Assistant will assist in experimental cosmology research in Prof. Bock's BICEP Array program. BICEP Array is leading the search for a polarized signal in the Cosmic Microwave Background from a primordial background of gravitational waves through mm-wave observations from the South Pole. The experiment relies on large arrays of bolometric detectors cooled to a low temperature of 100 mK. The Research Assistant will assist in the cryogenic characterization of integrated focal plane modules. Each array will be tested for device parameters, noise performance, spectral response, optical efficiency, and polarized beam formation. The Research Assistant will work with graduate students, postdocs, and staff engaged in research in this program within a vibrant research environment.

Essential Job Duties

• Installation of the focal plane modules in a test cryostat.
• Checking electrical continuity, and cooling the system to operating temperature.
• The tests will involve operating a custom set of electronics that control a chain of SQUID cryogenic amplifiers. Optical tests involve illuminating the detectors with external test apparatus to measure spectral response, optical efficiency, and beam patterns.
• Analyze results of the test using existing reduction software, and document the results in internal web postings.
• Potentially assisting in other research capacities as needed.

Basic Qualifications

Preferred Qualifications

Required Documents