Scientist (Open Rank)

Associated Universities • CHARLOTTESVILLE, VA

6d • Hybrid

About The Position

The National Radio Astronomy Observatory (NRAO), managed by Associated Universities, Inc. (AUI), is seeking up to three qualified Scientists (open rank) for the North American ALMA Science Center (NAASC). These positions will support ongoing ALMA operations and software design/development for the upcoming ALMA Wideband Sensitivity Upgrade (WSU). The roles will focus on either ALMA data processing software development or ALMA user and telescope support. The data processing roles will involve supporting the development of ALMA's current automated data processing pipeline and the transition to a new system (RADPS-ALMA) capable of handling increased data volumes due to the WSU. This includes developing new heuristics for automated data processing, quality assessment, and potentially implementing new functionality like multi-array imaging. The user support role will focus on assisting users with obtaining, reducing, and analyzing data, engaging in community training, preparing documentation, and supporting user events. Staff scientists are expected to spend 75% of their time on functional duties and 25% on independent research. These positions are based in Charlottesville, Virginia, with potential for remote work for highly experienced candidates. The roles are on the NRAO Scientist track (Assistant Scientist, Associate Scientist, or Scientist), with the rank depending on the candidate's experience.

Requirements

• Ph.D. in astronomy, astrophysics or a related field.
• One or more years of relevant work experience after PhD (at the post-doctoral or staff scientist level).
• Experience with radio/millimeter/submillimeter astronomy and interferometry and associated telescope systems (software or instrumentation).
• Experience with astronomical observing and/or working in an observatory setting.
• Demonstrated ability to work in and lead a team.
• Demonstrated record of independent research.
• Experience developing, prototyping, testing and/or commissioning astronomy data processing software and pipelines (including calibration and/or imaging) for interferometer telescopes (for data processing software positions only).
• Experience using Python or another scientific programming language (for data processing software positions only).
• Experience with common software packages used for data processing and analysis in astronomical research (e.g. CASA) (for data processing software positions only).
• Observatory employees must be authorized to work in the United States.
• The Observatory currently cannot sponsor H-1B Visas for this position.

Nice To Haves

• Candidates with at least two years of relevant experience may be given preference.
• Demonstrated ability to comprehend and synthesize new and complex technical information.
• Demonstrated ability in self-directed investigations and problem-solving.
• Demonstrated ability to work both independently and in an internationally-distributed team environment.
• Strong interpersonal and communication skills (verbal and written).
• Versatility to adapt to new challenges and opportunities as NRAO’s astronomical landscape and observatory functional needs evolve.
• Developing software, including the use of version control, documentation, and testing (for data processing software positions only).
• Developing requirements for, implementing, and/or validating cutting edge astronomy data processing software, other telescope software, and/or hardware (for data processing software positions only).
• Diagnosing and troubleshooting telescope or array related issues, including diagnostic analysis of imperfect radio or millimeter data (for data processing software positions only).

Responsibilities

• Play a major role in the planning, preparation, development and implementation of data processing pipeline software for the WSU including contributions to the development of RADPS-ALMA.
• Support users in the preparation, execution, and/or data reduction of their observing programs and contribute to the planning and preparation for user support needs in the WSU era.
• Facilitate and enable cutting-edge science by the community and help enhance ALMA’s observing capabilities.
• Actively contribute to NAASC activities during WSU commissioning and subsequent WSU operations.
• Work closely with other members of the NAASC, NRAO, and JAO, contributing to the overall NRAO mission and to a collaborative international team environment.
• Carry out a program of independent astronomical research, generally synergistic with the science relevant to NRAO’s current and planned facilities, particularly ALMA.

Benefits

• Excellent paid time off (13 holidays, annual accrual of up to 24 vacation days)
• Medical, dental and vision plans are effective on the first day of employment.
• AUI’s retirement benefit contributes an amount equal to 10 percent of a qualified participant’s base pay with no required employee contribution.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Entry Level
• Education Level: Ph.D. or professional degree