Postdoctoral Research Associate – DECam

Posted on
Current state: Approved
Department: Community Science and Data Center (CSDC)
City: Tucson
State/Province: Arizona
Country: United States
Contact Email: [email protected]
Institution: NOIRLab
Application Due Date: Saturday, October 31 2020
Web Link: https://recruiting2.ultipro.com/SPA1004AURA/JobBoard/9eb88b35-a884-4935-9c1e-0ce6bbf2a741/Opportunity/OpportunityDetail?opportunityId=4114b958-f18c-4718-a76f-7fd89d374787

NSF’s NOIRLab is seeking applicants for a postdoctoral fellowship focused on data-intensive science with the Dark Energy Camera (DECam) at NOIRLab’s 4m Blanco Telescope at Cerro Tololo Inter-American Observatory (CTIO). The position is for two years, with a third year possible depending on performance and availability of funds. The position carries a scientific personal research funding allowance.

The successful candidate will pursue a scientific research program based on DECam observing and data mining, and will collaborate with other NOIRLab scientists and engineers to implement new software infrastructure for management, processing, and distribution of wide-field imaging data. We are especially interested in candidates with experience and interests in the areas of time-domain astronomy, multi-messenger astrophysics, Galactic and extragalactic astrophysics research using large databases, and automated image processing. Candidates are also encouraged to explore scientific and technical synergies between DECam and the forthcoming Legacy Survey of Space and Time (LSST) to be conducted at the Vera C. Rubin Observatory.

This position is hosted by NOIRLab’s Community Science and Data Center (CSDC), and can be based in either Tucson, AZ or La Serena, Chile (candidates should indicate their preferred location in their application). The successful applicant will have extensive opportunities for collaboration with CSDC staff as well as with staff at CTIO and throughout NOIRLab. Funds will be available to support the Fellow’s personal scientific research.

NOIRLab is the US national center for ground-based optical and infrared astronomy. In addition to CSDC and CTIO, NOIRLab includes Kitt Peak National Observatory and Gemini Observatory, along with the future operations of the Vera C. Rubin Observatory.

A Ph.D in Astronomy, Astrophysics, Physics, or a related field is required. Interested candidates should submit a CV, a statement of research interests, and the names and contact information of three professional references. Applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis until the position is filled. For best consideration, please apply by 31 October 2020. The position is available immediately, with a start date as late as 30 June 2021 being negotiable.

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 usage of computers may be required. Given the international nature of NOIRLab, you may need to travel to the various observatory sites (Arizona, Chile and Hawai’i) and other locations for business purposes.

****Most NOIRLab staff work remotely during the COVID-19 pandemic. The safety of our staff and community is our top priority. We will interview and screen candidates virtually. Offers of employment can be extended and new hires can on-board virtually and may be able to work remotely until it is safe to report to our Tucson offices. Relocation benefits will be available to those eligible when travel can be supported.****

Veterans, disabled individuals or wounded warriors needing assistance with the employment process should request assistance at [email protected]

 AURA, as a leader in the astronomical community, is committed to diversity and inclusion. AURA 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  

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.