SkyMapper Internships - Experience Astronomy

The Research School of Astronomy and Astrophysics, in conjunction with the College of Physical and Mathematical Sciences, welcomes applications from 2+3 year students currently enrolled at the ANU in a science field for SkyMapper Internships.

• 5 SkyMapper Internships are available - each educational stipend is valued at $5000pa.

• You will be part of the SkyMapper Team. You will work with SkyMapper astronomers on science topics such as:
  • identifying rare classes of stars and quasars

  • identifying pulsating stars

  • identifying and defining the orbits of new asteroids and comets

  • helping manage the telescope and observing schedule, or

  • helping with data quality control.

• Candidates will attend 4 hours per week during semester at Mt. Stromlo Observatory, and ~50hrs during the mid-semester break. Please note there is no public transport to Mt. Stromlo Observatory unfortunately.

• Applications are due 5pm Friday March 16th 2012. Applicants should include:
  • a personal statement of why you are interested in the SkyMapper Internship. Discuss your past relevant experience.

  • useful but not necessary skills include: a knowledge of astronomy; programming skills in an unix environment; understanding of databases.

  • a check will also be made on your grades at ANU.

• Applications should be forwarded to stefan*at*mso.anu.edu.au (replace *at* with "@")

• If you are interested in getting involved in SkyMapper outside of the internship program you are welcome to contact us at the above email address.