Applications are invited for a postdoctoral position at Lowell Observatory to work on the physical characterization of near-Earth objects. This position will be supervised by Dr. Nicholas Moskovitz.
The initial appointment is for one year with the possibility of annual extensions in the case of satisfactory performance. The position is expected to be split with 80% of the time dedicated to the main program and 20% for any other research of the postdoc’s choosing. The start date is negotiable. This position is funded by active NASA grants and comes with a competitive salary with full benefits. Funding is available for computer resources, attending conferences, publication charges, and observing runs. Postdocs at the Observatory have access to our 4.3m Lowell Discovery Telescope (LDT) as well as several 1-m class telescopes. Lowell offers numerous opportunities for involvement in education and public outreach.
RESPONSIBILITIES
The postdoctoral associate will work in collaboration with Dr. Moskovitz and other project team members on the ongoing Mission Accessible Near-Earth Object Survey (MANOS). This survey is working to achieve comprehensive characterization for newly discovered NEOs using astrometric, photometric, and spectroscopic techniques. Observations will be conducted at a range of facilities including Gemini North and South, the SOAR 4m, Lowell's 4.3m LDT, and NASA’s IRTF. In addition, the MANOS team is working to develop new software tools that will facilitate rapid target selection, observation, and data dissemination.
The postdoc will contribute to some combination of the following tasks:
-- Target management.
-- Conducting regular telescopic observations (approximately 1 night per month), either remotely or on site.
-- Managing observations at queue-mode facilities.
-- Astrometric, photometric, and/or spectroscopic data reduction and analysis.
-- Software development in support of target selection, observations, and/or data curation.
-- Leading publications relevant to this work.
QUALIFICATIONS AND EXPECTATIONS
The postdoctoral associate should have experience with observations and analysis of data specific to minor planets.
Strong programming skills are highly desired. Experience with the Python programming language is preferred.
Regular meetings with project team members are expected, but in general the postdoc will be expected to work independently. They must be able to prioritize tasks, set schedules, troubleshoot problems, and complete complex tasks on time and within deadlines.
The postdoc is expected to reflect the professional and collegial environment the Observatory strives to maintain.
Applicants should specify in their research statement why they are interested in this position.
EXPERIENCE AND EDUCATION
A PhD in physics, astronomy, planetary science, or a closely related field is required by the start date.
WORKING CONDITIONS
Working at a computer and sitting for extended periods. Driving to remote telescope sites to conduct nighttime observations. The candidate must have or be able to obtain a valid AZ Driver’s license and have an excellent driving record. A Motor Vehicle department background check will be performed annually.
Compensation Type: Salary
FLSA Classification: Exempt
Status: Full time, regular
Term: 1 year with possibility of annual renewal
Benefit Eligible: Yes
Location: Flagstaff, Lowell Observatory’s Mars Hill Campus
To Apply:
Please send a single pdf document to humanresources@lowell.edu that contains the following:
- Lowell Short Form Application (http://lowell.edu/about/employment)
- A 1-page cover letter.
- CV
- A statement of research accomplishments and future research plans. Candidates should explicitly describe how their experience and interests are relevant to this position. (3 pages)
- Phone numbers and e-mail addresses of three professional references
Review of applications will begin on January 15, 2021.