The Center for Advanced Radio Astronomy’s STARGATE program is seeking applicants for an Assistant Research Faculty position in Radio Frequency (RF) technology development and/or RF Systems Engineering. STARGATE is a public-private partnership between CARA and Space Exploration Technologies (SpaceX). STARGATE is a space technology innovation center that combines higher education, research, economic development, and commercialization. The new 20,000 sq-ft facility will be located adjacent to the SpaceX launch site command center, spacecraft assembly facility, and spacecraft tracking hardware. STARGATE resources will give students, faculty, and researchers unprecedented opportunities for near and deep space exploration ,research, and technology development.
The successful candidate will have the unique opportunity to be involved in the commercialized space efforts just starting in South Texas, home to SpaceX’s first commercial launch facility. Enhanced training opportunities are available through our national partners/collaborators including the National Radio Astronomy Observatory, NASA’s Jet Propulsion Laboratory, and NASA Goddard Space Flight Center. In addition, there will be opportunities to be directly involved in the commercialization of STARGATE projects. As UTRGV’s first Center of Excellence, CARA, is focused on making South Texas a leader in Space Exploration through education, research, technology development, and commercialization. CARA projects encompass both near space low Earth orbit activities as well as deep space astrophysical exploration. Research and technology development efforts in STARGATE will initially focus on the development of next generation Radio Frequency receiver/transmitter platforms for both scientific and commercial purposes. Applications include spacecraft tracking, satellite communication, advanced WiFi systems, radio frequency interference mitigation, and the detection and analysis of transient radio signals of astrophysical origin. The current position is guaranteed for two years with the possibility of evolving into a tenure track faculty position depending on performance and the availability funds. Under limited supervision and with moderate latitude for the use of initiative and independent judgment, performs complex research/engineering work by assisting in the development, implementation, and monitoring of specialized projects. Manages the upkeep, training, and supervision of specialized research equipment within area of assigned responsibility. Link to full description:https://careers.utrgv.edu/postings/10460

