Current state: Approved
Department: MSO
City: Tucson
State/Province: Arizona
Country: USA
Contact Person: AURA Human Resources
Institution: AURA/ NOIRLab
Application Due Date: Thursday, December 31 2020
NSF’s NOIRLab is the preeminent US national center for ground-based, nighttime optical and infrared astronomy. The mission of NOIRLab is to enable breakthrough discoveries in astrophysics by developing and operating state-of-the-art ground-based observatories and providing data products and services for a diverse and inclusive community.
At an elevation of 2098 m, Kitt Peak is located 88 km from Tucson on the Tohono O’odham nation. It is home to approximately 20 operational telescopes, include the 4 m Mayall and the 3.5 m WIYN. The Mayall telescope is host to the Department of Energy’s Dark Energy Spectroscopic Instrument (DESI). This 5,000 fiber, wide-field spectrometer is just starting a 5-year spectroscopic survey, and will produce the most detailed map of the cosmos to date. WIYN is the home of a new, NASA-funded high precision radial velocity spectrometer, NEID (meaning “to see” or “to visualize” in the Tohono O’odham language). NEID is at the center of the NN-EXPLORE, a joint program by NASA and NSF to support exoplanet discover and characterization. The successful candidate will have the opportunity to participate in the DESI and NN-EXPLORE research programs.
Kitt Peak is also home to the University of Arizona’s Steward Observatory 2.3m Bok telescope and the Arizona Radio Observatory 12m submillimeter telescope, NRAO’s VLBA 25m radio telescope, LPL’s Space Watch telescopes (0.9m, 1.8m), the KPNO 2.1m telescope (currently operated by Caltech), the MDM Observatory (1.3m, 2.4m), the RCT (1.3m), SARA (0.9m), WIYN 0.9m, Case-Western Burrell-Schmidt, and several telescopes operated by the Kitt Peak Visitor Center, including the McMath-Pierce Solar Telescope.
As part of the Mid-Scale Observatories program (MSO) and NOIRLab, the Associate Director for KPNO reports to the MSO Director and will be responsible for the performance of observatory science and public operations, stewardship of the Observatory and mountain, and long-term planning. The position is based in Tucson, with frequent travel to Kitt Peak.
Essential Functions:
Responsibilities of the Associate Director include but are not limited to:
- Performance of observatory science and public operations, including
- Successful operation of the Mayall telescope for the DESI survey.
- Successful operation of the WIYN Observatory, including the NEID RV survey and WIYN partner programs.
- Participation in scientific research using KPNO facilities.
- Support of tenant facilities and management of tenant agreements.
- Support of public operations, including the Kitt Peak Visitor Center and Windows on the Universe Center for Astronomy Outreach.
- Stewardship of the Observatory and mountain
- Build and maintain strong and productive relationships with Tohono O’odham Nation officials, educators, students, parents, artisans, and civic groups through word and action.
- Protect the Observatory site from light pollution from commercial, residential, and recreational outdoor lighting, working with tribal, county, and state officials and stakeholders.
- Create and nurture a diverse, inclusive and equitable working environment.
- Develop and maintain Observatory infrastructure long-term maintenance, upgrade, and sustainability plans, in collaboration with NOIRLab Central Operations Services (COS).
- Lead the long-term planning for KPNO, including
- Planning for future scientific use of the DESI instrument after 5-yr survey is complete.
- Planning for further work w/NEID following NN-EXPLORE.
- Representing KPNO in future developments through the WIYN partnership.
- Preserving the viability of support services to tenants.
- Ensuring KPNO maintains a vital place in the suite of US community facilities.
Required Education/Experience/Skills/Abilities:
- PhD in astronomy, astrophysics, or related field.
- Experience in the management of major scientific programs.
- Significant record of publication of scientific papers in an area of astronomical research.
- Ability to present and communicate ideas effectively both verbally and in writing.
- Ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships internally, with diverse stakeholders, and with the scientific community.
- Ability to provide scientific leadership to peers and junior colleagues.
Physical Demands:
The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.
- The work is mostly carried out in an office environment. Long periods of sitting and computer usage may be required.
- Must be able to work and climb stairs at an altitude of 2098m/6,800 ft
- Occasional travel is required
AURA offers an excellent benefits package including paid time off and retirement plan contributions, competitive salary commensurate with experience, and a very attractive work environment.
We are committed to diversity and inclusion at NOIRLab. Our managing organization, AURA, as a leader in the astronomical community, develops and supports programs that advance our organizational commitment to diversity, broaden participation, and encourage the advancement of diversity throughout the astronomical scientific workforce. Learn more at http://www.aura-astronomy.org/diversity.asp
Preference will be given to qualified internal candidates and qualified Native Americans living on or near the Tohono O’odham reservation.
Please list 3 professional references in your application (references will only be contacted later in the recruitment process) and attach: a cover letter and a CV or resume, PDF files preferred. Please name any attachments with the following format: Lastname Docname. Application documents that are not uploaded as part of the application may be sent to [email protected].
Veterans, disabled individuals or wounded warriors needing assistance with the employment process should request assistance at [email protected]
The position will remain open until filled. To be considered in the first round of reviews, please submit your application by December 1, 2020.
****NOIRLab has the majority of staff working remotely during COVID-19 crisis. The safety of our staff and community is our top priority. We will continue to interview and screen candidates in this new virtual landscape. Offers of employment can be extended and new hires can on-board virtually and arrangements may be made for remote work. Relocation benefits will be available to those eligible when travel can be supported****
The Association of Universities for Research in Astronomy (AURA), is a consortium of over 40 US institutions and three international affiliates that operates world-class astronomical observatories. AURA’s role is to establish, nurture, and promote public observatories and facilities that advance innovative astronomical research. AURA is responsible for managing the operations of the NSF’s NOIRLab, the National Solar Observatory, and the construction of the Vera C. Rubin Observatory and the Daniel K. Inouye Solar Telescope under cooperative agreements with the National Science Foundation and operations of the Space Telescope Science Institute under contracts with NASA.
As a recipient of U.S. Government funding, AURA is considered a government contractor and is subject to Equal Employment Opportunity and Affirmative Action regulations. As an Equal Opportunity and Affirmative Action Employer, AURA does not discriminate based on race, sex, color, age, religion, national origin, sexual orientation, gender identity/gender identity expression, lawful political affiliations, veteran status, disability, and/or any other legally protected status under applicable federal, state, and local equal opportunity laws.
Current state: Approved
City: Houston
State/Province: Texas
Country: USA
Contact Person: Cynthia Svambera
Institution: Lunar and Planetary Institute
Application Due Date: Thursday, December 31 2020
The Universities Space Research Association’s Lunar and Planetary Institute (LPI) invites applications for a Postdoctoral Fellow in Planetary Radar Studies. Applicants should have a recent Ph.D. in planetary science, astronomy, physics, geoscience, electrical engineering, or a related field.
The successful candidate will join Drs. Patrick A. Taylor and Edgard G. Rivera-Valentín in using ground-based planetary radar observations to characterize near-Earth objects and other planetary bodies (e.g., the Moon, Mercury, and Mars). The LPI is a partner of the Arecibo Observatory planetary radar group and closely collaborates with other facilities, including the Goldstone Solar System Radar and the Green Bank Observatory. The successful candidate will work alongside the radar team to conduct detailed studies of near-Earth objects and planetary surfaces via radar observations, data analysis, and modeling. Additionally, the successful candidate is expected to carry out an independent research program and contribute to public engagement events at the LPI and, furthermore, will be encouraged to propose for external funding and participate in grant review panels and analysis/assessment groups.
At the LPI, the successful candidate will have the opportunity to interact with scientists of many specialties (see www.lpi.usra.edu) including scientists from the Astromaterials Research and Exploration Science (ARES) division of the NASA Johnson Space Center. Additionally, the applicant will have the opportunity to participate in the development of the LPI’s Planetary Radar Investigation, Demonstration, and Exploration (PRIDE) laboratory for conducting controlled radar-scattering experiments.
Required expertise includes: experience in numerical and statistical techniques, proficiency in a common astronomy programming language (e.g., IDL, MATLAB, Python), and demonstrated knowledge of planetary radar studies. Direct experience with radar observations and techniques is strongly desired, but not required. Complementary experience with astronomical/Solar System observations (e.g., optical or infrared), small-body geophysics, or astronomical instrumentation is preferred, but not required.
The position is for two years with a possible one-year extension. The candidate must be able to pass a government background investigation. Due to security restrictions, citizens of U.S. State Department Designated Countries (see link under “ECP Notices” at http://oiir.hq.nasa.gov/nasaecp/) are not eligible.
Interested applicants should apply to the posting at USRA Careers; application material submitted outside of this platform will not be considered. The required application material includes: (1) cover letter evidencing the qualifications of the applicant to this position, (2) curriculum vitae with list of publications, (3) two- to three-page statement of research interests and plans describing the candidate’s expected independent research program at the LPI, and (4) list of at least three professional references. Application material should be uploaded as a single document. Review of candidates will begin on February 24, 2019; however, applications will be accepted until the position is filled. Questions can be addressed to Dr. Patrick A. Taylor.
Current state: Approved
Department: Gemini Observatory
City: Hilo
State/Province: Hawaii
Country: USA
Institution: NOIRLab
Application Due Date: Thursday, December 31 2020
The International Gemini Observatory, part of the NSF’s NOIRLab, has an immediate opening for an ADAPTIVE OPTICS SCIENTIST at our Northern Base Facility. We are committed to diversity and inclusion at Gemini Observatory. Our managing organization, AURA, as a leader in the astronomical community, develops and supports programs that advance our organizational commitment to diversity, broaden participation, and encourage the advancement of diversity throughout the astronomical scientific workforce. Learn more at http://www.aura-astronomy.org/diversity.asp
We seek an individual who can thrive in a culturally diverse environment. The Adaptive Optics Scientist will play a leading role in the operations and maintenance of the Altair Adaptive Optics facility at Gemini North, and the development and operations of the GNAO Multi-Conjugate Adaptive Optics facility being planned for Gemini North. GNAO will be a Laser Guide Star Multi-Conjugate Adaptive Optics system operated as a facility class system on Gemini North. This position will be part of the Technology Development Department within the National Optical Infrared Research Laboratory, which includes our Adaptive Optics operations and development staff across both Gemini telescopes. This position will be based at Gemini North in Hilo, Hawaii, with work occasionally required at the Gemini North telescope on the Maunakea summit. The position will mostly work regular office hours, however, night-shift observing duties will also be required, mostly remotely from the base facility in Hilo. Occasional travel to international destinations including Gemini South in La Serena, Chile may be required. This position will be filled at either the Postdoctoral Fellow, Assistant Scientist, Associate Scientist, or Scientist level depending on the skills and experience of the successful candidate. The initial appointment will be for 3 years, with the possibility of extension or renewal based on satisfactory performance, operational needs and funding availability.
AURA provides a generous compensation package including health coverage, paid vacation leave, parental leave and retirement benefits.
All applicants must submit a cover letter with their resume that describes their interest in this position and their relevant experience along with three professional references. Incomplete applications will not be considered. Interviews will be scheduled for candidates who meet the minimum qualifications and complete the application process as instructed. The position will remain open until filled.
Essential Functions:
- Supports the AO instruments and AO observations at Gemini, including daytime calibrations and tests as well as night time operations and support.
- Coordinates with AO staff and Gemini Science and Engineering Operations to organize and manage upgrades, maintenance and improvements to Gemini AO systems.
- Carries out observational/research projects and prepares results for publication.
- Provides specialist advice to others on scientific exploitation of Gemini facilities.
- Organizes commissioning and ongoing development of Gemini telescopes, AO instrumentation and support facilities.
- Contributes to development of software for reduction and analysis of Gemini AO data.
- Tests, calibrates, maintains and documents new and existing astronomical equipment, including AO instruments, observing systems and software, working with engineering staff.
- Presents scientific and technical results at astronomical meetings and symposia.
- Maintains an interest in the scientific mission of Gemini, its relation to the wider scientific context and to the public interest.
- Participates in observatory committees and national/international scientific organizations and meetings.
- Contributes to public outreach and communicating astronomy to the public.
- Serves on interview panels.
Required Education/Experience/Skills/Abilities
Qualified candidates will have a Ph.D. in Astronomy or related field and at least 3 years of experience working with Adaptive Optics systems, preferably at a major ground based astronomical observatory. This is not a requirement for hiring as a postdoctoral fellow, but is required at any of the scientist levels. Additional requirements include excellent technical writing, advanced computer and oral/public speaking communication skills with the ability to communicate with a wide variety of staff, visiting observers and remote investigators throughout the Gemini partnership. Must be able to work in small teams as well as work independently and possess the motivation and ability to identify and carry out new projects in a team environment while participating in the day-to-day operations of the observatory. Possess excellent team player skills with an aptitude for dealing with practical problems and issues is necessary. Knowledge of theoretical and observational approaches to exploring the origins and astrophysical properties of celestial objects and the Universe. Familiarity with spectroscopy, direct imaging and ground-based observing. Proficiency with astronomical software and data reduction techniques. Must be able to contribute to scientific research programs using Gemini. Must be able and willing to travel internationally and work in a culturally diverse
environment.
Physical Demands:
The physical demands as described in the Adaptive Optics Scientist Job Description are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.
The work of an Adaptive Optics Scientist is mostly carried out in an office environment near sea level. Long periods of sitting may be required.
The Association of Universities for Research in Astronomy (AURA) is a consortium of over 40 US institutions and three international affiliates that operates world-class astronomical observatories. AURA’s role is to establish, nurture, and promote public observatories and facilities that advance innovative astronomical research. AURA is responsible for managing the operations of the NSF’s NOIRLab, the National Solar Observatory, and the construction of the Vera C. Rubin Observatory and the Daniel K. Inouye Solar Telescope under cooperative agreements with the National Science Foundation and operations of the Space Telescope Science Institute under contracts with NASA.
As a recipient of U.S. Government funding, AURA is considered a government contractor and is subject to Equal Employment Opportunity and Affirmative Action regulations. As an Equal Opportunity and Affirmative Action Employer, AURA and all of the centers, do not discriminate based on race, sex, color, age, religion, national origin, sexual orientation, gender identity/gender identity expression, lawful political affiliations, veteran status, disability, and/or any other legally protected status under applicable federal, state, and local equal opportunity laws.
Current state: Approved
Department: Gemini Observatory
City: Hilo
State/Province: Hawaii
Country: USA
Institution: NOIRLab
Application Due Date: Sunday, November 01 2020
The international Gemini Observatory, part of the NSF’s NOIRLab, has two openings for Science Fellow positions to perform research and support scientific operations. One position is located at the Gemini North (GN) Observatory in Hilo, Hawai’i and another at the Gemini South (GS) Observatory in La Serena, Chile. We are committed to diversity and inclusion at Gemini Observatory. Our managing organization, AURA, as a leader in the astronomical community, develops and supports programs that advance our commitment to diversity, broaden participation, and encourage diversity throughout the astronomical scientific workforce. Learn more at http://www.aura-astronomy.org/diversity.asp.
We seek an individual who thrives in a culturally diverse environment. Science Fellow positions are split 50/50 between research and observatory operational support work. Science Fellows at Gemini acquire significant training and experience in large ground-based telescope operations—becoming proficient both in state-of-the-art astronomical instrumentation and research, and in the techniques of modern, queue-based observing methods. Each successful applicant will have demonstrated research productivity, and possess the motivation and ability to identify and carry out new projects while assisting in the day-to-day operations of the observatory. They will also possess excellent teamwork skills in order to work collaboratively with Gemini staff and scientists in our international community, and participate in observatory committees and external scientific organizations.
Cover letter with CV that describes interest in this position and relevant experience, a research statement on most important research contributions, future plans and any observatory support interests (up to 3 pages) along with a list of 3 professional references with contact information required for full consideration.
Application deadline: November 1st, 2020.
The successful candidate will be hired as a Science Fellow in the Gemini Science Fellow non-tenure track, depending on the skills and experience of the successful applicant. AURA provides a generous compensation package including health coverage, paid vacation leave, parental leave and retirement benefits.
Activities and Functions of the Job:
In this position, you will be:
- Conducting independent research in any area of astronomy.
- Preparing and presenting scientific papers at astronomical meetings and symposia.
- Providing science support of instrumentation, telescope sub-systems, and facility.
- Preparing nightly queue observing plans and executing queue-based observations for other astronomers in the Gemini communities.
- Supporting Gemini users with specification of their observing program using Gemini tools, and introducing visiting observers to the telescope and instruments.
- Conducting tests, calibration, and maintenance and developing documentation of new and existing astronomical equipment, including control and data acquisition systems.
- Participating in development activities related to instrumentation and support facilities.
Training will be provided in these functions where needed.
Required Education/ Experience/ Skills/ Abilities:
We seek an individual with a Ph.D. in Physics, Astronomy or related discipline. Our telescopes and instruments specialize in optical and in IR astronomy. Therefore, we are looking for a person with experience using optical/IR observations, analyzing data and producing and publishing science results. We expect you to have a demonstrated ability to perform independent research in optical/IR astronomy. The job requires you to work in a culturally diverse environment, and sometimes to travel internationally. It is important to have good communication skills since you will have to communicate with a wide variety of staff, visiting observers and remote investigators throughout the Gemini partnership.
Preferred Education/ Experience/ Skills/ Abilities:
Given Gemini Observatory’s telescopes and instrument capabilities, the following experiences are valued: Experience using and/or developing optical/IR telescopes and/or instrumentation and/or Adaptive Optics capabilities. Experience with working closely with engineering teams during science commissioning of astronomical instrumentation. The job will often require you to work with people from other disciplinary teams. Therefore it will be good if you have a demonstrated ability to perform well in a diverse multidisciplinary team to solve problems and issues. At the same time, it is important that you can work independently when necessary.
Physical Demands:
The work of a Gemini Science Fellow is mostly carried out in an office environment near sea level. Long periods of sitting may be required. You will be expected to perform night time duties as well as day time, working to a prearranged schedule. Given the international nature of the observatory, you may also need to travel, and occasional work at high elevation (Maunakea, 4200m; Cerro Pachon, 2700m) may be required. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities or other considerations to perform the essential functions.
The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.
Veterans, disabled individuals or wounded warriors needing assistance with the employment process should request assistance at [email protected]
The Gemini Observatory is part of the NSF’s NOIRLab and is managed by the Association of Universities for Research in Astronomy (AURA), a consortium of over 40 US institutions and three international affiliates that operates world-class astronomical observatories. AURA’s role is to establish, nurture, and promote public observatories and facilities that advance innovative astronomical research. AURA is responsible for managing the operations of the NSF’s NOIRLab, the National Solar Observatory, and the construction of the Vera C. Rubin Observatory and the Daniel K. Inouye Solar Telescope under cooperative agreements with the National Science Foundation and operations of the Space Telescope Science Institute under contracts with NASA.
As a recipient of U.S. Government funding, AURA is considered a government contractor and is subject to Equal Employment Opportunity and Affirmative Action regulations. As an Equal Opportunity and Affirmative Action Employer, AURA and all of the centers, do not discriminate based on race, sex, color, age, religion, national origin, sexual orientation, gender identity/gender identity expression, lawful political affiliations, veteran status, disability, and/or any other legally protected status under applicable federal, state, and local equal opportunity laws.
