Research Data Scientist Jobs in Tucson, AZ

Posting Number req26383
Department Lunar and Planetary Laboratory
Department Website Link https://lpl.arizona.edu
Location Tucson Campus
Address Tucson, AZ USA
Position Highlights

The Lunar and Planetary Laboratory (LPL) is a world leader in space science, technology, and exploration, dedicated to advancing the fundamental understanding of the origin and evolution of the Sun, planetary bodies in our solar system, and planetary systems beyond. LPL achieves excellence through cutting-edge research and teaching while mentoring the next generation of planetary scientists. As a multidisciplinary and interdisciplinary community, LPL fosters an environment that advances science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) research, education, and public engagement, where everyone can thrive.

The University of Arizona's Lunar and Planetary Laboratory invites you to apply for the role of Research Data Support Specialist II. In this position, you will support advanced exoplanet research in preparation for the upcoming Roman Space Telescope mission. You will investigate the occurrence rates of young (100–500 Myr), close-in exoplanets, contributing to a deeper understanding of planetary formation and early system evolution.

Visa sponsorship is not available for this position.

The University of Arizona has been recognized for our innovative work-life programs.

Duties & Responsibilities
Conduct literature searches and prepare summaries of scientific publications utilizing 50 papers in an Overleaf document, highlighting methodologies, datasets, and findings for review by the principal investigator.
Familiarize yourself with Boyle's catalogue.
Develop and maintain Python scripts to load, organize, query, and extract data from astronomical catalogs, including the identification of subsets based on established selection criteria (e.g., stellar rotation and effective temperature).
Apply stellar rotation-age relationships designated by the project lead from the scientific literature and implement approved methodologies for age estimation (these can be stellar temperature-dependent), including the application of documented uncertainty calculations.
Generate data products, statistical summaries, tables, and figures to characterize young 100-500 Myr samples within specified age ranges and support comparisons between GBTDS and TESS datasets.
Document findings and present results to research personnel for evaluation and interpretation.
Collaborate with other researchers on the team and present at team meetings.

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities (KSAs):
Python proficiency: Demonstrated proficiency in using Python for scientific computing, astrophysical data analysis, and the development of reproducible, research-grade workflows for large astronomical datasets (e.g., time-series or survey data).
Attention to detail: Strong ability to ensure scientific accuracy and quality control, including the reliability, traceability, and validation of results derived from complex datasets and research workflows.
Communication skills: Ability to clearly communicate technical and scientific information both verbally and in writing, including the documentation of analysis methods and results, and collaboration within multidisciplinary research teams supporting space- and mission-based science.

This job posting reflects the general nature and level of work expected of the selected candidate(s). It is not intended to be an exhaustive list of all duties and responsibilities. The institution reserves the right to amend or update this description as organizational priorities and institutional needs evolve.

Minimum Qualifications
High school diploma or high school diploma equivalency is required.
Minimum of 3 years of relevant experience required.

Preferred Qualifications
FLSA Non-Exempt
Full Time/Part Time Part Time
Number of Hours Worked per Week 20
Job FTE 0.50
Work Calendar Fiscal
Job Category Research
Benefits Eligible No Benefits
Rate of Pay $18.15 - $22.69
Compensation Type hourly rate
Grade 4
Compensation Guidance The Rate of Pay Field represents the University of Arizona’s good faith and reasonable estimate of the range of possible compensation at the time of posting. The University considers several factors when extending an offer, including but not limited to, the role and associated responsibilities, a candidate’s work experience, education/training, key skills, and internal equity.

The Grade Range represent a full range of career compensation growth over time. The university offers compensation growth opportunities within its career architecture. To learn more about compensation, please review our Applicant Compensation Guide and our Total Rewards Calculator.
Career Stream and Level OC2
Job Family Research & Data Analysis
Job Function Research
Type of criminal background check required: Name-based criminal background check (non-security sensitive)
Number of Vacancies 1
Target Hire Date
Expected End Date 8/9/2026
Contact Information for Candidates Ilaria Pascucci, PhD
Professor, Planetary Sciences
pascucci@arizona.edu

Open Date 6/30/2026
Open Until Filled Yes
Documents Needed to Apply Resume
Special Instructions to Applicant
Notice of Availability of the Annual Security and Fire Safety Report In compliance with the Jeanne Clery Campus Safety Act (Clery Act), each year the University of Arizona releases an Annual Security Report (ASR) for each of the University’s campuses. These reports disclose information including Clery crime statistics for the previous three calendar years and policies, procedures, and programs the University uses to keep students and employees safe, including how to report crimes or other emergencies and resources for crime victims. As a campus with residential housing facilities, the Main Campus ASR also includes a combined Annual Fire Safety report with information on fire statistics and fire safety systems, policies, and procedures.
Paper copies of the Reports can be obtained by contacting the University Compliance Office at cleryact@arizona.edu.