Techniques in Radio Cosmology Instrumentation
Raul Monsalve, Research Scientist
Space Sciences Laboratory
Closed. This professor is continuing with Fall 2023 apprentices on this project; no new apprentices needed for Spring 2024.
The Radio Cosmology Group (RCG) at the Space Sciences Laboratory is a leader in the study of the first billion years of the Universe through the design and operation of state-of-the art radio frequency instrumentation to measure radio waves from space.
We are seeking an undergraduate research assistant for a variety of projects that fall under the umbrella of the Mapper of the IGM Spin Temperature (MIST) experiment. In MIST, the ultimate purpose is to measure the 21-cm signal emitted by neutral hydrogen in the intergalactic medium (IGM) during the first billion years of the Universe, when the first stars and galaxies formed. This signal was originally emitted by hydrogen at 1.42 GHz, but due to the expansion of the Universe it is expected to be redshifted to, and detected at, frequencies below 300 MHz. Once detected, the specific characteristics of the redshifted 21-cm signal will inform us of the key properties of the first stars and galaxies. This signal has not been measured and verified to date due to daunting challenges in instrumentation design, radio interference, and data analysis. We expect for the undergraduate research assistant to contribute to different aspects of this effort to ultimately detect the redshifted 21-cm signal with high confidence and fidelity.
Participation in these projects will appeal to astronomers, experimental physicists, electrical engineers, and computer scientists, who want hands-on experience with state-of-the-art radio systems and experiments, especially those with relevance to the study of the Universe on large scales. Our needs are continually evolving and we encourage interested undergraduates to apply.
Role: One opening is available this semester. Students with the ability to return for 2 or more additional semesters are preferred. The position will enable the student to learn about and gain experience in a broad range of activities, including the analysis of radio data from laboratory and field tests, the electromagnetic simulation of antennas, the electrical simulation of radio frequency circuits, the design of printed circuit boards, and the testing of prototype radio instruments, among others. The student will be given the opportunity to present their work at meetings and to be part of publications that benefit from their contribution.
Qualifications: A positive attitude, good communication skills, good writing skills, and a willingness to learn are required. RCG student team members are usually astronomers, physicists, electrical engineers, or computer scientists, with an interest in developing techniques for space science research. General laboratory, data processing, electronics, Python programming, and Linux systems experience are desirable. Students with the ability to return for 2 or more additional semesters are preferred.
Hours: to be negotiated
Off-Campus Research Site: Combination of remote work and work at the Space Sciences Laboratory, 7 Gauss Way, Berkeley, CA 94720.
Related website: http://www.physics.mcgill.ca/mist/
Related website: http://ssl.berkeley.edu/
Engineering, Design & Technologies, Mathematical and Physical Sciences