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Astrophysics Research Assistant Jobs (NOW HIRING)

The Pennsylvania State University

$15/hr

... Astrophysics is seeking applicants for the part-time job of Research Assistant for the summer. Job duties to include: * Working with large astronomical catalogs and imaging data sets from JWST

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Astrophysics Research Assistant information

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How much do astrophysics research assistant jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 17, 2026, the average hourly pay for astrophysics research assistant in the United States is $19.33, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $14.90 and $23.08 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an Astrophysics Research Assistant, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Astrophysics Research Assistant, you need a solid background in physics, mathematics, and astronomy, typically supported by a bachelor's or master's degree in a related field. Familiarity with data analysis software (such as Python, MATLAB, or IDL), telescope instrumentation, and scientific databases is essential. Strong analytical thinking, attention to detail, and effective communication skills help you interpret complex data and collaborate within research teams. These skills are crucial for contributing to meaningful scientific discoveries and supporting the goals of research projects.

What does an Astrophysics Research Assistant do?

An Astrophysics Research Assistant supports scientists and professors in conducting research related to the physical properties and phenomena of celestial objects and the universe. Their tasks may include analyzing data from telescopes, running simulations, assisting with laboratory experiments, and preparing reports or presentations. They often use specialized software and work closely with a research team to help advance scientific understanding in astrophysics.

What is the difference between Astrophysics Research Assistant vs Physics Research Assistant?

AspectAstrophysics Research AssistantPhysics Research Assistant
Required CredentialsBachelor's or Master's in Physics, Astronomy, or related fieldBachelor's or Master's in Physics or related field
Work EnvironmentResearch labs, observatories, universities, space agenciesResearch labs, universities, industrial R&D
Employer & Industry UsageAcademic, government space agencies, astronomy institutesUniversities, research institutions, industry
Common Search & ComparisonYesYes

The main difference between an Astrophysics Research Assistant and a Physics Research Assistant lies in their specialization. Astrophysics Research Assistants focus on space, stars, and celestial phenomena, often working with observatories or space agencies. Physics Research Assistants have a broader scope, working across various physics fields in labs or industry. Both roles require similar educational backgrounds and are found in research environments, but their specific focus areas differ.

How does an Astrophysics Research Assistant typically collaborate with other team members on research projects?

As an Astrophysics Research Assistant, collaboration is a key part of daily work. You will often work closely with principal investigators, postdoctoral researchers, and fellow assistants to collect and analyze data, prepare presentations, and co-author papers. Regular meetings are common to discuss findings, share progress, and align on project goals. Additionally, you may coordinate with technical staff for equipment and software needs, making communication skills essential for success in this role.
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Astrophysics Research Assistant jobs near you
Infographic showing various Astrophysics Research Assistant job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 74% Full Time, 23% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 89% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 8% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $40,200 per year, or $19.3 per hour.
Graduate Student Research Assistant

Graduate Student Research Assistant

Adler Planetarium

Chicago, IL • On-site

$19.02/hr

Temporary

Retirement, PTO

Posted 4 days ago

Job description

Graduate Student Research Assistant

Part-Time Temporary

June 22, 2026 to August 21, 2026



About the Adler Planetarium

The Adler Planetarium connects people to the universe and each other. Whether introducing a guest to the Ring Nebula, a neighborhood school to a community partner, a research team to a network of citizen scientists, or one staff member to another, the Adler's focus on meaningful connections dates back nearly a century.


Today, the museum typically hosts more than half a million visitors annually and reaches millions more through youth STEAM programs, neighborhood skywatching events, online citizen science, and other outreach efforts. With Adler's support, people of all ages, backgrounds, and abilities gain the confidence to explore their universe together and return to their communities ready to think critically and creatively about any challenge that comes their way.


The Position

The Adler Planetarium is seeking a Graduate Student Research Assistant to join our dynamic team on Chicago's Museum Campus.


The Graduate Student Research Assistant will conduct astrophysics research under the supervision of the Senior Director of Astronomy. They will participate in the design and evaluation of the ASOM (Asteroid Surface Observation Mission) NEO flyby mission.


This individual will also be responsible for:

  • Participating in the design and evaluation of the ASOM (Asteroid Surface Observation Mission) NEO flyby mission.

  • Building an asteroid detection model loosely based on LSST parameters.

  • Constructing a pipeline for inversion of lightcurve measurements into a 3-D asteroid shape model for use in modeling the Yarkovsky effect.


The Work Schedule

The typical work schedule for this position is 20 hours per week, from 10 AM to 3 PM, with a flextime and telecommuting option—4 days a week telecommuting and 0 days onsite at the museum. There will be occasional face-to-face meetings at the Adler. The position will start from June 22 to August 21, 2026.


The Compensation & Benefits (Part-Time)

Base Pay Range: $19.02/hr

Work-Life Balance

  • 7 to 25-hour workweek

  • Eligible to accrue up to 6 vacation days per year

  • 3 sick days as of date of hire (can accrue up to 6.5 days per year)

  • Eligible to earn time and a half for working on any of the 7 Adler observed holidays

  • Flexible work arrangements

  • Paid Family Bereavement Leave & Jury Duty

  • Paid Parental Leave

Commuter flexible spending account

Retirement Savings Plan

  • 403B plan with Adler match

  • Adler match is 100% vested immediately

  • Eligible to enroll as of the date of hire

Network of Support through our EAP programs

  • Resources to help address emotional, legal, and financial issues

  • Face-to-face, telephonic, and web-based services

  • Free subscription to the Calm Premium app

Employee Loan Program

Discounted Onsite Parking Program

Free Entrance to Chicago area museums and cultural institutions


The Person

The person must have a demonstrated interest in space-based asteroid observations and have strong communication skills. Attention to detail and commitment to working as a team are a plus.


Required Qualifications:

  • Must be enrolled in a course of study leading to a Master's degree in Physics, Astronomy, or other related field

  • At least 1 year of experience with research projects.

  • Knowledge of asteroid properties, photometric performance of telescopes, and the Yarkovsky effect

  • Demonstrated ability to code in Python


The Adler Planetarium is dedicated to complying with its Equal Opportunity Employer obligations. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to any characteristic protected by federal, state, or local law.


If you need a reasonable accommodation for any part of the employment process, please email the Human Resources Department at recruiting@adlerplanetarium.org with the nature of your request and your contact information. Accommodation requests will be considered on a case-by-case basis.

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