Radio Astronomer

Computational Physics•Washington, DC

1d•Onsite

About The Position

The successful candidate will support the Radio Optical Reference Frame Division in its mission to define and maintain the celestial reference frame. The candidate will support efforts to improve astrometric and geodetic data products through the development and evaluation of future Very Long Baseline Interferometry (VLBI) capabilities. Work will include: simulation and analysis of network geometry, group delay measurements, calibration techniques, and systematic errors. Travel to Socorro, NM is expected and additional travel to conferences and workshops may be required.

Requirements

PhD in astronomy or physics with an emphasis on radio interferometry, or postdoctoral work with this experience.
Experience with either the Common Astronomy Software Applications (CASA) or Astronomical Image Processing System (AIPS) packages.
Proficiency with Python programming and standard software development practices.
A peer-reviewed publication record commensurate with a recent PhD or postdoctoral fellow.
U.S. Citizenship is required for this position.
Ability to obtain and maintain a TS/SCI clearance.

Nice To Haves

Expertise in VLBI is highly desirable. Especially astrometric/geodetic VLBI.
Expertise in interferometric calibration is highly desirable.
Experience using the Very Long Baseline Array (VLBA) or VLBA-derived data is highly desirable.
Experience simulating interferometric networks, observations, or experiments is highly desirable.
Experience using GIS software packages, such as ArcGIS, is desirable.

Responsibilities

Support the Radio Optical Reference Frame Division in its mission to define and maintain the celestial reference frame.
Improve astrometric and geodetic data products through the development and evaluation of future Very Long Baseline Interferometry (VLBI) capabilities.
Simulation and analysis of network geometry, group delay measurements, calibration techniques, and systematic errors.

Benefits

Competitive salary
Comprehensive benefits
Positive, upbeat, and transparent company culture with opportunities for self-development and career advancement
Employee-owned small business that allows team members to learn from each other and take ownership
Professional development support including conference attendance and certification training
401(k)
Profit Sharing
Employee Stock Ownership Plan (ESOP)
Disability insurance (short-term and long-term)
Flexible schedule
Flexible spending account
Health, Dental and Vision insurance
Life insurance
Paid time off
Parental Leave
Tuition reimbursement