Adaptive Optics Software/Science Postdoctoral Fellowship – ID# 17390

Adaptive Optics Software/Science Postdoctoral Fellowship – ID# 17390

Institute for Astronomy.  Non-Regular, Full-Time, Limited Term (up to three (3) years in duration), RCUH Non-Civil Service position with the Institute for Astronomy (IfA), Adaptive Optics group, located in Hilo, Hawai‘i.  Continuation of employment is dependent upon program/operational needs, satisfactory work performance, availability of funds, and compliance with applicable Federal/State laws.

We invite applications for a postdoctoral fellowship in the field of adaptive optics and related astronomical science at the University of Hawai‘i’s Institute for Astronomy.  The successful applicant will play a leading role in the software operations and deployment of a new robotic laser adaptive optics system (Robo-AO-2) on the UH 2.2-meter telescope on Maunakea, Hawai‘i.  They will also develop and lead early science enabled by the capability.

The project is led by Christoph Baranec at the IfA, and will involve technical collaborations with Caltech (Reed Riddle) and scientific collaborations with several other institutions through six-months of guaranteed observing time with Robo-AO-2. The 3-year appointment will be based at the Institute for Astronomy’s Hilo facility with occasional travel to the Institute for Astronomy on Oahu, and to the summit of Maunakea. In addition to scientific operations, demonstration of hybrid stellar/laser wavefront sensing techniques may be performed.

The candidate should have previous experience in astronomical instrumentation, particularly with software/hardware interfaces. The Robo-AO code base is predominantly C++ code, and the candidate will be modifying and extending the current code functionality. The original developer will be available as a consultant. Strong skill with C/C++ (familiarity with C/C++ and minimum 1 year additional experience with instrumentation software development may substitute). Experience with adaptive optics systems is helpful, but not necessary.

The appointment commences 1st January 2018 or as soon as possible thereafter.

Monthly Salary: $4,833.34/Mon.

Applications from persons in underserved and underrepresented groups in STEM are particularly encouraged to apply. Deadline for applications is November 30, 2017 or until filled. Applications received after this deadline may be considered only if the position is not filled or up to the date a selection has been approved by the RCUH (whichever comes first). Please go to www.rcuh.com and click on “Job Postings.” You must submit the following documents online to be considered for the position: 1) Cover Letter, 2), Resume or Curriculum Vitae, 3) Salary History, 4) Supervisory References, 5) Copy of Degree(s)/Transcript(s)/Certificate(s), 6) Statement of research interests, 7) List of publications. In addition, candidates should arrange for three letters of recommendation to be sent to RCUH via email to [email protected] by the closing date. All online applications must be submitted/received by the closing date (11:59 P.M. Hawai‘i Standard Time/RCUH receipt time) as stated on the job posting. If you do not have access to our system and the closing date is imminent, you may send additional documents to [email protected].  For further inquiries, including technical, contact: Christoph Baranec ([email protected]).

RCUH’s mission is to support and enhance research, development and training in Hawai‘i, with a focus on the University of Hawai‘i.

Equal Opportunities Employer – Minorities/Women/Disability/Veteran.