Intern, Science

Gemini North/NOIRLab is seeking a Research Intern (undergraduate student or recent graduate) to work with Dr. Kristin Chiboucas on the analysis of JWST NIRCAM and NIRISS imaging data of the Coma Cluster. This internship is expected to last for 3-4 months and offers the opportunity to contribute to an international collaborative project focused on understanding dwarf galaxies and ultracompact dwarf galaxies (UCDs) in a rich cluster environment.

The intern will perform two-dimensional surface brightness profile fitting using tools such as GALFIT, helping to derive sizes, shapes, and luminosities of galaxies and UCD candidates. The project aims to characterize the dwarf galaxy population in the Coma Cluster and explore the formation mechanisms of UCDs. The position will be based at the Gemini North Observatory in Hilo, Hawaii, with collaboration and mentorship from team members in Tucson and other locations.

Essential Functions:

• Perform analysis of JWST imaging data to identify and characterize galaxies and UCD candidates.
• Use GALFIT and other software to derive structural parameters of galaxies.
• Assist in the interpretation of derived data to identify UCDs and understand their distribution and origins.
• Clearly document methods, code, and results for use by collaborators and future research.
• Communicate regularly with team members and participate in virtual or in-person meetings. • Ensure compliance with AURA policies regarding research, data handling, and property management.

Other Functions:

• Other duties as assigned

Required Education/Experience/Skills/Abilities:

• Enrolled in a bachelor's program in a relevant field Astronomy, Astrophysics, or Computer Science, or have a recent Bachelor's (or higher) degree in relevant field Astronomy, Astrophysics, or Computer Science.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills in English.
• Ability to work independently and collaboratively in a research environment.

Preferred Education/Experience/Skills/Abilities:

• Experience working with astronomical imaging data, particularly JWST data.
• Familiarity with GALFIT, Python, or other data analysis tools.
• Ability to manage and process large datasets.
• Prior research experience in galaxy morphology or photometry is a plus.

Physical Demands:

The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

• Must be able to remain in a stationary position at least 50% of the time.
• Occasional need to move about inside the office environment to access files, office tools, attendance in a meeting room, etc.
• Constantly operates a computer and other office productivity tools that require fine motor skills, such as a calculator, copy machine, computer printer, etc.
• May occasionally need to position self to maintain computer and related tools.
• Seldomly needed to move objects up to 10 pounds.
• Constant communication with other individuals. Must be able to discern and exchange information as appropriate to the situation.
• Constant need to distinguish, discern, and identify a variety of objects and fine details with accuracy.
• Occasional work at high elevation summit sites may be required (summit elevations range from 6,800 feet to 14,000 feet)

The above statements are intended to describe the general nature and level of work being performed by individuals assigned to this position. They are not intended to be an exhaustive list of all duties, responsibilities and skills required by personnel so classified. This Institute promotes Equal Employment Opportunity workplace that includes reasonable accommodations to otherwise qualified, disabled applicants and employees.

Salary Range:

$17.20 per hour.

How to Apply

Apply by December 31, 2025 for priority consideration. This position will remain open until it is filled. Please submit a cover letter and a CV or resume, PDF files preferred. Please name any attachments with the following format: Lastname Docname.

Individuals needing assistance with the employment process can request assistance at employment@aura-astronomy.org