The Las Cumbres Observatory Global Telescope Network, Inc. (LCOGT) and University of California, Santa Barbara seek a postdoctoral scientist to work on follow up of Near Earth Objects (NEOs).  The ideal candidate should have demonstrated expertise in observations of Solar System objects and experience with software development.  This position is funded by a grant from NASA to 1) develop and exploit the global telescope network of LCOGT for NEO follow-up; 2) lead photometric and spectroscopic characterization of NEOs; and 3) assist in the creation of a web-based environment for Solar System investigations by citizen scientists. The successful candidate will also contribute to the overall mission of the observatory – the creation of a worldwide network of robotic telescopes specializing in time domain astronomy. The postdoc has the option to be affiliated with UCSB and have offices at both UCSB and LCOGT and have access to the observing resources of both institutions. They can also benefit from proximity to the Kavli Institute for Theoretical Physics.  The desired start date for this position is October 1st, 2014.

LCOGT is a privately funded global robotic observatory network, which operates ten 1 meter and two 2 meter robotic telescopes.  The 2 meter Faulkes Telescopes in Haleakala, Hawaii, and Siding Spring, Australia feature imagers and robotic FLOYDS low-resolution spectrographs.  The 1 meter telescopes have imagers and are located at McDonald Observatory in Texas, CTIO in Chile, Siding Spring in Australia, and SAAO in South Africa.

Applicants should submit a CV, cover letter, and research statement, and should arrange to have three letters of reference sent to [email protected].  Electronic PDF submissions are preferred. Applications complete by August 31, 2014 will receive full consideration. A Ph.D. in astronomy, physics, or a related discipline is required.  The term of this position is 3 years.  The Department of Physics and LCOGT are especially interested in candidates who can contribute to the diversity and excellence of the academic community through research.  LCOGT and UCSB are equal opportunity employers.

This position has the option to be held as an employee of UCSB and thus receive the UCSB benefit package for Postdoctoral Scholars or held as a direct employee of LCOGT with similar benefits.  For further information on UCSB benefits, go to:  http://hr.ucsb.edu/benefits/postdoctoral-scholars and reference Title Code 3252.

The Adler Planetarium (Chicago, IL) seeks an Observer to conduct follow-up imaging and physical characterization of near-Earth objects in a major new effort using the ARC 3.5-meter telescope at Apache Point Observatory. This position will be based in Chicago at the Adler. Applicants for this position must have their Bachelors degree in Astronomy, Planetary Science or a related field preferably with experience in ground-based optical observing. The successful applicant will be the primary observer for frequent nighttime sessions in imaging and reflectance spectroscopy via remote observing, and will conduct a limited amount of data reduction and analysis. In addition they will spend 10% time on education and outreach activities related to their research work. The initial appointment will be for two years with a possible extension dependent on successful performance and availability of funding, starting no later than October 1, 2014. Applications will be accepted until position filled.

To apply, send resume to:

Human Resources

[email protected]

Equal Opportunity Employer M/F/D/V

REQ: AST150