Temporary Technical- VTS Staff TA

The Vanderbilt University Physics & Astronomy department seeks a temporary Technical VTS Staff TA to run stellar population synthesis codes, analyze and visualize the resulting data, and contribute to research on long gamma‑ray burst populations. The incumbent will collaborate closely with the faculty PI and the Administrative Manager, attend weekly progress meetings, and assist in preparing written reports and publications.

• Run stellar population synthesis codes and related simulations.
• Analyze simulation output and perform scientific data analysis.
• Create plots and visualizations to illustrate results.
• Present findings during weekly research meetings.
• Write up results for internal reports and manuscript preparation.
• Maintain documentation of code usage, parameters, and data processing steps.
• Troubleshoot and optimize code performance as needed.
• Collaborate with the faculty PI and Administrative Manager on project goals.
• Ensure data integrity and proper version control of analysis scripts.
• Assist in preparing figures and tables for conference presentations.

• Minimum 1 year experience with long gamma‑ray burst population modeling.
• Proficiency in running stellar population synthesis codes.
• Strong scientific data analysis and statistical skills.
• Ability to produce clear, publication‑quality plots and visualizations.
• Good written and oral communication skills.
• Ability to work independently and meet weekly meeting commitments.
• Master's degree in Astronomy, Physics, Astrophysics, or a related field (preferred).
• Familiarity with programming languages such as Python, IDL, or MATLAB.
• Experience with version control systems (e.g., Git).
• No supervisory responsibilities; reports administratively to the faculty PI and functionally to the Administrative Manager.