Post-Bacc - KIPAC

Dean of Research, Stanford, California, United States

Research

Post Date May 16, 2024

Requisition # 103274

SCHOOL/UNIT DESCRIPTION:

The Kavli Institute for Particle Astrophysics and Cosmology, or KIPAC, was inaugurated in 2003 as an independent laboratory of Stanford University to serve as a bridge between the disciplines of astrophysics, cosmology and particle physics. KIPAC's members work in the Physics and Applied Physics Departments on the Stanford campus and at the SLAC National Accelerator Laboratory. Its mission is to bring the resources of modern computational, experimental, observational and theoretical science to bear on our understanding of the universe at large.

Our VPDoR Diversity Journey:

• We create a hub of innovation through the power of diversity of disciplines and people.

• We provide equitable access and opportunity to all members of the community in order to do their best work, regardless of race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, protected veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by law.

• We listen to and value all colleagues who bring diverse perspectives to the advancement and development of a respectful community.

• We promote a culture of belonging, equity, and safety.

• We embed these values in excellence of education, research, and operation.

POSITION SUMMARY:

The KIPAC post-baccalaureate fellowship position in physics and astronomy is a 15-month fixed term with the possibility of extension based on funding availability and programmatic need. The program will provide a mentored research experience in astrophysics and cosmology with a research team at KIPAC, an institute hosted by Stanford University and SLAC National Laboratory. Program participants will receive additional career-advising and professional development to prepare them to succeed in a PhD graduate program in physics or astronomy. Selected interns will be expected to relocate to the area and find housing.

Program Goals:Research experience is an important part of graduate school applications in physics and astronomy, yet access to these experiences is not equally available to all students. The goal of this post-baccalaureate fellowship is to increase access to graduate programs in physics and astronomy for recent college graduates who have not had extensive research opportunities at their undergraduate institutions, especially for students from historically underrepresented or disadvantaged backgrounds in physics/astronomy.

Program timeline:The program will start on June 24, 2024. Participants should be willing to make a minimum one year commitment to the program. Participants will be encouraged and supported to apply for PhD programs in physics or astronomy in Fall 2024.

Key Program Features:Research training in KIPAC research groups/labs at Stanford or SLAC; Mentorship from KIPAC faculty, scientists, postdocs, and graduate students; Monthly salary and health insurance; Scientific skills and professional development workshops; Speaking, networking, and community-building opportunities; Access to resources at Stanford and SLAC; Research will be conducted on the Stanford campus and/or at SLAC National Accelerator Laboratory.

Instructions for Personal Statement: Please keep to no more than 2 pages and address the following questions: 1. What fields of astrophysics are most interesting to you? 2. Why do you want to go to graduate school in physics or astronomy? 3. What do you see as the strengths of your current preparation for graduate study, and how will this program further prepare you to succeed in graduate school? 4. How has your background impacted your journey as a scientist? Check goto.stanford.edu/kipac-postbac-faq regarding how the Personal Statement will be evaluated.

Program Contact & Questions:Please check out our Frequently Asked Question page (goto.stanford.edu/kipac-postbac-faq). For questions not already listed on the FAQ page, please contactkipacpostbac@stanford.edu.

CORE DUTIES:

• Independently conduct experiments; maintain detailed records of experiments and outcomes.

• Apply the theories and methods of a life science discipline to interpret and perform analyses of experiment results; offer suggestions regarding modifications to procedures and protocols in collaboration with senior researcher.

• Review literature on an ongoing basis to remain current with new procedures and apply learnings to related research

• Contribute to publication of findings as needed. Participate in the preparation of written documents, including procedures, presentations, and proposals.

• Participate in regular scientific discussions with KIPAC scientists via weekly interactions.

• Participate in professional development workshops to improve scientific and technical skills.

MINIMUM REQUIREMENTS:

Education & Experience:

Bachelor’s degree in physics, astronomy, or a related field by June 23, 2024.

Knowledge, Skills and Abilities:

• General understanding of scientific principles. Demonstrated performance to use knowledge and skills when needed.

• Demonstrated ability to apply theoretical knowledge of science principals to problem solve work.

• Ability to maintain detailed records of experiments and outcomes.

• General computer skills and ability to quickly learn and master computer programs, databases, and scientific applications.

• Ability to work under deadlines with general guidance.

• Excellent organizational skills and demonstrated ability to accurately complete detailed work.

Preferred Qualifications:

Candidates that have not been admitted to nor enrolled in a graduate program in in physics, astronomy fields. College graduates returning to academia after less than 5 years in the workforce, or on personal leave, are eligible and welcome to apply. Candidates should have a demonstrated interest in pursuing graduate studies towards a PhD in astronomy or physics. This program is committed to supporting students from groups that are historically underrepresented or disadvantaged in physics and astronomy. All eligible candidates are encouraged to apply.

Candidates having completed courses in an introductory physics sequence, advanced physics courses such as classical mechanics, electrodynamics, quantum mechanics, statistical mechanics, and relevant mathematics.

PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS:

• Frequently stand, walk, twist, bend, stoop, squat, grasp lightly, use fine manipulation, grasp forcefully, perform desk-based computer tasks, use telephone, write by hand, lift, carry, push and pull objects weighing over 40 pounds.

• Occasionally sit, kneel, crawl, reach and work above shoulders, sort and file paperwork or parts.

• Rarely climb, scrub, sweep, mop, chop and mix or operate hand and foot controls.

• Must have correctible vision to perform duties of the job.

• Ability to bend, squat, kneel, stand, reach above shoulder level, and move on hard surfaces for up to eight hours.

• Ability to lift heavy objects weighing up to 50 pounds.

• Ability to work in a dusty, dirty, and odorous environment.

WORK STANDARDS:

• Interpersonal Skills: Demonstrates the ability to work well with Stanford colleagues and clients and with external organizations.

• Promote Culture of Safety: Demonstrates commitment to personal responsibility and value for safety; communicates safety concerns; uses and promotes safe behaviors based on training and lessons learned.

• Subject to and expected to comply with all applicable University policies and procedures, including but not limited to the personnel policies and other policies found in the University’s Administrative Guide,http://adminguide.stanford.edu.

The expected pay range for this position is $26.44 to $28.84 per hour.

Stanford University provides pay ranges representing its good faith estimate of what the university reasonably expects to pay for a position. The pay offered to a selected candidate will be determined based on factors such as (but not limited to) the scope and responsibilities of the position, the qualifications of the selected candidate, departmental budget availability, internal equity, geographic location and external market pay for comparable jobs.

At Stanford University, base pay represents only one aspect of the comprehensive rewards package. The Cardinal at Work website (https://cardinalatwork.stanford.edu/benefits-rewards) provides detailed information on Stanford’s extensive range of benefits and rewards offered to employees. Specifics about the rewards package for this position may be discussed during the hiring process.

Why Stanford is for You

Imagine a world without search engines or social platforms. Consider lives saved through first-ever organ transplants and research to cure illnesses. Stanford University has revolutionized the way we live and enrich the world. Supporting this mission is our diverse and dedicated 17,000 staff. We seek talent driven to impact the future of our legacy. Our culture andunique perksempower you with:

• Freedom to grow . We offer career development programs, tuition reimbursement, or audit a course. Join a TedTalk, film screening, or listen to a renowned author or global leader speak.

• A caring culture . We provide superb retirement plans, generous time-off, and family care resources.

• A healthier you . Climb our rock wall, or choose from hundreds of health or fitness classes at our world-class exercise facilities. We also provide excellent health care benefits.

• Discovery and fun . Stroll through historic sculptures, trails, and museums.

• Enviable resources . Enjoy free commuter programs, ridesharing incentives, discounts and more!

The job duties listed are typical examples of work performed by positions in this job classification and are not designed to contain or be interpreted as a comprehensive inventory of all duties, tasks, and responsibilities. Specific duties and responsibilities may vary depending on department or program needs without changing the general nature and scope of the job or level of responsibility. Employees may also perform other duties as assigned.

Consistent with its obligations under the law, the University will provide reasonable accommodations to applicants and employees with disabilities. Applicants requiring a reasonable accommodation for any part of the application or hiring process should contact Stanford University Human Resources atstanfordelr@stanford.edu. For all other inquiries, please submit acontact form.

Stanford is an equal employment opportunity and affirmative action employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, protected veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by law.

Additional Information

• Schedule: Full-time

• Job Code: 4943

• Employee Status: Fixed-Term

• Grade: E

• Requisition ID: 103274

• Work Arrangement : Hybrid Eligible, On Site