Research Scientist in LIGO Calibration

Job Overview
The Kenyon College Department of Physics is seeking a highly skilled postdoctoral researcher to join the Laser Interferometer Gravitational-wave Observatory (LIGO) research group. The successful candidate will participate in the development of next-generation calibration pipelines for the two LIGO interferometers, located in Hanford, WA and Livingston, LA.

This position is ideal for a candidate with significant experience in computational physics and research expertise in gravitational-wave physics or astronomy. Familiarity with ground-based gravitational wave detectors, particularly detector characterization or calibration experience within the LIGO, Virgo, or KAGRA Collaborations, is highly desirable.

Responsibilities

• Assist in the development of the next-generation calibration pipeline for the two LIGO interferometers.
• Further develop calibration infrastructure, including monitoring of low-latency calibration products.
• Participate in on-site calibration tasks at the LIGO Hanford Observatory.

Qualifications

• Ph.D. in physics or astronomy, anticipated by July 2025.
• Significant computational physics experience.
• Research expertise in gravitational-wave physics or astronomy.
• Familiarity with ground-based gravitational wave detectors.