Instrument Scientist (m/f)
Job Summary
Job Description
The Leibniz-Institut für Astrophysik Potsdam (AIP) invites applications for the position of
Instrument Scientist (m/f)
The institute has a strong record in the development of optical instrumentation for state-of-the-art international telescope facilities, such as the European Southern Observatory in Chile, the Large Binocular Telescope in Arizona, the Hobby Eberly Telescope in Texas, the Calar Alto Telescopes in Spain and also operates the robotic STELLA observatory on Tenerife. AIP will make significant contributions to the next generation European Large Telescope (ELT) instrumentation and is involved in space missions such as Gaia, eRosita and Solar Orbiter. AIP specialises in fibre-coupled precision, multi-channel and integral field spectroscopic systems, and examples of current instrumentation projects include: 4MOST (VISTA), ELT-HiReS, ELT-MOS and GANS (GREGOR).
The successful candidate will primarily work on the 4MOST project at AIP in collaboration with the large local project team and an extensive external partner network. The 4MOST instrument scientist is critically involved in: 1) developing, maintaining, and verifying of instrument requirements, 2) performance analyses and trade-offs, 3) creating and executing of commissioning and calibration plans to assure high quality data, and 4) developing observing sequences that ensure efficient and effective use of the 4MOST instrument. The successful candidate is furthermore expected to dedicate 20% of her/his time to active astronomical research.
Your Tasks
- Science and user requirements development, management and verification
- Conducting system analyses in and with support of the system engineering team
- Development and implementation of instrument commissioning plans
- Development of instrument calibration strategies to assure high quality astronomical data
- Creating of observing templates in consultation with the instrument control software and instrument user teams
- Conducting an active research program in one of the science areas of the AIP
Your profile must include:
- A Ph.D. degree in astronomy, astrophysics, or a closely related field
- Observational and data analysis experience with astronomical instrumentation, preferably with (multi-object) spectroscopic instrumentation
- Experience in commissioning and/or calibrating astronomical instrumentation highly desirable
- Experience in specification development and verification is a strong asset
- Strong analytical, conceptual, and problem solving skills as exemplified by a compelling publication record
- Highly self-organised, provide a pro-active attitude and ability to organise work independently
- Excellent interpersonal and communication skills with the ability to collaborate efficiently and effectively with scientific and technical staff
- Demonstrated ability to work as a member of multi-disciplinary (often international) teams in close collaboration with system engineering, software, optical design, and support staff
- Proficiency in documenting analysis, processes and procedures using MS Office software is highly desirable
- Fluency in spoken and written English
- Experience with optical fibre based systems is a strong asset
Compensation and Benefits
The AIP is an equal opportunity employer and strives to maintain a diverse, inclusive work environment and culture. AIP particularly encourages applications from women and those from diverse backgrounds. Preference will also be given to people with disabilities with equal competence. The appointment could be either part or full time and could start immediately after the recruitment process is completed. The appointment would be for 2 years with a possible longer-term perspective, subject to limitations of labour law, performance and funding. Salary and social benefits are calculated based on the German public service scale TV-L and depend on qualification. Employer contributions to medical, parental leave, and retirement benefits are included.
To apply, please send a single PDF file with a Cover letter, Curriculum Vitae, and a list of publications to [email protected]. Furthermore, arrange to have at least 2 letters of reference submitted to the same address. Complete applications received by 1st October 2018 will receive full consideration.