Applications are invited for the position of Resident Astronomer at the Canada-France-Hawaii Telescope in Hawaii. The appointment will be for an
initial period of three years and is renewable. The position is supported by Canada. CFHT is a 3.6 m telescope located at the summit of Mauna Kea that is scientifically competitive with 8-10m telescopes.
CFHT is particularly interested in attracting excellent scientists capable of guiding development or operations in the domain of wide-field optical and infrared imaging, high resolution spectro-polarimetry, data acquition and reduction. Scientists with interest in other areas applicable to CFHT, including adaptive optics, infrared instrumentation and high-resolution spectroscopy are also encouraged to apply.
Resident Astronomers have approximately one third of their time available for research and are expected to become active users of CFHT. In Waimea, astronomers have access to modern computers connected to CFHT's Gigabit network, and to a library with astronomy and instrumentation books as well as current subscriptions to all major journals. They have access to 10 discretionary nights on the Telescope each semester and have a research budget that is used to cover research-related travel and other expenses. Contacts with astronomers from the Institute for Astronomy and the University of Hawaii, and observers from other Mauna Kea observatories, are encouraged.
Resident Astronomers are assigned QSO coordination duties and, occasionally, may have to perform service observing or instrument support at the summit. They may also serve as project or instrument scientist for the development of instrumental or software projects. Resident Astronomers participate in the training of Service Observers and Remote Observers and perform various other tasks, including outreach activities, associated with the scientific life at CFHT.
Minimum requirements are a Ph.D. in astronomy or physics, or the equivalent, combined with experience in instrumentation, observations, or data reduction. Good knowledge of optical or infrared detectors, along with demonstrated capacity to oversee software development related to data reduction is especially desirable. Our preference is for individuals with previous post-doctoral experience and some experience in astronomical instrumentation or software. Salary will be commensurate with qualifications and experience. The individual selected must pass a physical exam certifying ability to work at 4200 meters altitude. Applications must include a detailed curriculum vitae, a list of publications, a statement of research interests including those particularly appropriate for CFHT. Applicants should also provide contact information of three individuals who can provide letters of recommendation.
