Astrophysicist, (Postdoctoral Research Fellow) (IS-1330-11)

Smithsonian Institution•Cambridge, MA

6d•Onsite

About The Position

The Smithsonian Astrophysical Observatory (SAO) is at the forefront, internationally, of the scientific exploration of the universe. SAO combines its resources with those of the Harvard College Observatory to form the Harvard-Smithsonian Center for Astrophysics (CfA). The CfA is the best-known astrophysics center in the world. Its programs range from ground-based astronomy and astrophysics research to space-based research, the engineering and development of major scientific instrumentation for space launch and use in large ground-based facilities, and research designed to improve science education. The research objectives of SAO are carried out primarily with the support of Government and Smithsonian Institution funds, with additional philanthropic support. Government funds are in the form of Federal appropriations or the form of contracts and grants from other agencies. In contrast, Institution funds are available to SAO through grants from the Institution's Restricted Funds, Special Purpose Funds, Bureau Activities, Business Activities, and non-Federal contracts and grants. This is the position of Astrophysicist (Post-Doctoral Research Fellow) in the Radio and Geoastronomy Division. The purpose of the position is to conduct programs of scientific research and scholarship in two areas. One is to support the Event Horizon Telescope (EHT) and next-generation EHT (ngEHT) projects, which focus on analysis of high frequency VLBI data to probe event horizon scale structures and physics around supermassive black holes. The other is investigation into methods of detecting techno-signatures, potentially originating within the environments of supermassive black holes, through exploitation of archival EHT data. Though these two scientific areas have distinct motivations and goals, they have in common high angular resolution techniques, black hole astrophysics, and statistical modeling and algorithm development for data analysis. We are particularly interested in candidates that have experience with these topics, as well as curiosity to apply them to novel applications. The incumbent is expected to devote the majority of their time to these areas. Candidates will also have opportunities to propose as a Principal Investigator for external support, host workshops, and visitors, participate in leadership opportunities, and receive mentoring and support from senior colleagues. Furthermore, they will be encouraged to establish mentoring relationships with CfA researchers and advise early career researchers. While there are no formal classroom teaching expectations, ample opportunities exist to engage in education and outreach activities across the Smithsonian, Harvard and Boston communities. As this position required analysis of EHT data, the incumbent will be nominated by SAO for membership in the EHT Collaboration, which is essentially assured.

Requirements

Degree: in one or a combination of astronomy, physics, mathematics, space science, or electronics. The coursework must have included differential and integral calculus and 12 semester hours in astronomy and/or physics.
Combination of education and experience -- at least 30 semester hours of courses equivalent to a major in any combination of astronomy, space science, physics, mathematics, and electronics, with required course work as shown in A above, plus appropriate experience or additional education.
Master's or equivalent graduate degree; or
Minimum of one-year specialized experience equivalent to at least grade 9 in the normal line of progression for this occupation. Specialized experience is experience that has equipped the applicant with the particular competencies/knowledge, skills, and abilities to successfully perform the duties of the position such as the duties listed above.
Combination of successfully completed graduate level education and experience equivalent to the above.
Knowledge of the technical methods, principles, and practices of the field of radio astrophysicsand/or very long baseline interferometry and/or black hole physics and/or modeling of techno-signatures and/or digital signal processing.
Ability to utilize computer technology in the solution of scientific problems.
Ability to perform scientific research, as may be evidenced by receipt of a Ph.D.
Ability to work effectively as part of a research group or scientific team
Ability to publish research results, as may be evidenced by prior publications.

Responsibilities

Conduct a program of research and scholarship that is broadly related to EHT/ngEHT science, engineering, or array enhancement; and to carry out a program of techno-signature modeling and detection. Both programs will be under the supervision and direction of the Principal Investigator (PI). It is anticipated that both programs will involve collaboration within SAO and with external groups.
Engage in the dissemination of the results of the research. For example, prepare papers for publication in scientific journals, and prepare and present findings at scientific meetings, as required.
Support, as required, the development of proposals for research funding.
Engage in the wider research and scholarly activities of the CfA.5. Mentor and assist undergraduate and graduate students in your area of research.
Mentor and assist undergraduate and graduate students in your area of research.