MPIA Data Scientist
Job Summary
Job Description
We invite applications for up to two permanent data scientist positions at the Max Planck Institute for Astronomy (www.mpia.de). The MPIA is home to over 200 scientists and engineers, who lead research on exoplanet atmospheres, planet and star formation, and galaxies and cosmology, and also develop state-of-the-art astronomical instrumentation.
Successful applicants will be permanent science support staff who work closely with research groups across the institute on the development and maintenance of algorithms and software. Responsibilities include: leading regular workshops on best practices in data science, open office hours to support research activities, and support for MPIA code bases and scientific computing resources. Twenty percent time will be reserved for personal science projects. These will be the first data scientist positions at the MPIA, so successful candidates will have the opportunity to help define their role and the group development within the institute.
We seek candidates with strong skills in one or more of the following areas: software development, statistics and machine learning, and high performance computing. Applicants should have a master’s degree or PhD in astronomy, physics, statistics, computer science, or a related field. Programming experience in Python is required; familiarity with other languages and astronomical software is an advantage. Leadership and mentoring experience are also strongly encouraged.
Candidates should provide: a cover letter, CV, publication list, and a two-page statement of relevant research experience and vision for data science at the MPIA. Please concatenate all documents in the order listed above into a single pdf file. We also request two letters of reference submitted through the online application portal. Candidates may also provide an optional link to their own public software repositories (e.g., a GitHub profile). All applications and reference letters must be submitted using the online application system (link below) by December 1, 2020: https://s-lotus.gwdg.de/mpg/mhas/mpia_data_scientist_309.nsf/portal
We anticipate a start date in 2021. For inquiries, please contact the chair of the search committee, Dr. Laura Kreidberg ([email protected]).
Compensation and Benefits
The MPIA provides funds for publications, computing, and travel. Remuneration will be on the German public sector scale (TVOED level E13/E14), and depends on qualification and experience. Social benefits are granted according to the regulations for public service.
The Max Planck Society is an equal opportunity employer. We particularly welcome applicants from groups who have been traditionally underrepresented in astronomy. The MPIA supports its employees in their search for suitable childcare.