Scientist (Open Rank)
About The Position
The National Radio Astronomy Observatory (NRAO), managed by Associated Universities, Inc. (AUI), is a leading research organization in radio astronomy. NRAO operates state-of-the-art radio telescope facilities for the international scientific community and has been crucial in studying black holes, galaxies, and the early universe. A significant upgrade, the X-Ka wideband receiver (8-38 GHz) for the VLBA, is underway to enhance scientific and astrometric capabilities by increasing instantaneous bandwidth and enabling access to new frequencies. NRAO is seeking a Scientist, Open Rank (Assistant, Associate, or Scientist) to serve as the Project Scientist for this VLBA X-Ka Wideband Receiver Project. The role involves 75% functional work within the VLBA Development Team and 25% for independent research. The primary responsibility is to oversee the development and integration of the new X-Ka receiver system. This is a three-year appointment on the NRAO Scientist track, with potential for renewal, based in New Mexico (Albuquerque or Socorro).
Requirements
- A PhD in astronomy or related field.
- At least one year of related experience using radio interferometry for astronomical research.
- Strong communication skills in written and oral English.
- Strong inter-personal skills.
- Familiarity with Linux / Unix operating systems.
- Ability to travel.
- Must be authorized to work in the United States.
- The Observatory presently cannot sponsor H-1B Visas for this position.
Nice To Haves
- High-level understanding of the functionality of radio telescopes.
- Experience scheduling VLBI experiments.
- Experience reducing VLBI data.
- Experience within a leadership team of medium to large projects.
- Proficiency in the Python computer language.
Responsibilities
- Capture and maintain top-level project requirements.
- Work with project leadership to develop and maintain project foundation documents.
- Organize testing and commissioning campaigns and prepare test reports.
- Coordinate installation while minimizing impacts to the VLBA observing program.
- Prepare material for and participate in project reviews.
- Establish standard observing bands.
- Participate in trade studies.
- Communicate with scientific users and external mission partners.
- Prepare user- and public-facing documentation (user guides, news articles, press releases).
- Contribute to the broader VLBA development portfolio by consulting and collaborating with teams on parallel projects (e.g., Next Generation Radar (ngRadar) and Next Generation VLA (ngVLA)).
- Maintain awareness of developments at related astronomical facilities.
- Maintain an active independent research program, ideally making significant use of Observatory facilities.
Benefits
- Excellent paid time off (13 holidays, annual accrual of up to 24 vacation days).
- Medical, dental and vision plans effective on the first day of employment.
- Retirement benefit: AUI contributes an amount equal to 10 percent of a qualified participant’s base pay with no required employee contribution.
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What This Job Offers
Job Type
Full-time
Career Level
Entry Level
Education Level
Ph.D. or professional degree
