Scientist (Open Rank)

Associated Universities • SOCORRO, NM

6d • Onsite

About The Position

The National Radio Astronomy Observatory (NRAO), managed by Associated Universities, Inc. (AUI), is a leading research and development organization in radio astronomy. NRAO operates state-of-the-art radio telescope facilities for the international scientific community and has been instrumental in studying black holes, galaxies, and the early universe. A new X-Ka wideband receiver (8-38 GHz) is being developed for the VLBA to enhance its scientific and astrometric capabilities by increasing instantaneous bandwidth, enabling access to new frequencies, and improving spectral studies. The 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 on the VLBA Development Team and 25% for independent research. The primary responsibility is to oversee the development and integration of the new receiver system. The appointment is on the NRAO Scientist track, with rank determined by experience. This is a three-year appointment with the possibility of renewal, based in New Mexico (Albuquerque or Socorro offices), with travel between sites as needed.

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
• Observatory employees 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 preparation of test reports
• Help coordinate installation while minimizing impacts to the VLBA observing program
• Prepare material for and participate within project reviews
• Establish standard observing bands
• Participate in trade studies
• Communicate with scientific users and external mission partners
• Prepare user- and public-facing documentation such as user guides, news articles, press releases
• Contribute to the broader VLBA development portfolio by consulting and collaborating with teams on parallel projects like the Next Generation Radar (ngRadar) and the Next Generation VLA (ngVLA)
• Maintain awareness of developments at related astronomical facilities
• Maintain an active independent research program which ideally makes 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 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