Scientific Programmer, Planetary Data Systems - Small Bodies Node

The Small Bodies Node (SBN) of NASA’s Planetary Data System, based in the Department of Astronomy at the University of Maryland, College Park, is seeking a programmer with analytic experience who would work with a larger group of planetary scientists and programmers. The ideal candidate will also work closely with programmers at the Minor Planet Center at the Center for Astrophysics, Cambridge, MA, concerned with small body astronomy and orbital calculation. 5 years experience is required, including some system administration experience or training, and with some experience either designing or implementing IT security measures in a Linux network environment. A familiarity with relational database management is also desired. A Bachelor's or Master's level degree in computer science or a related field is prefered, but previous work experience will also be considered. Near-term tasks include developing a cross-identification database for all bodies represented in the archive, overseeing the security plan for the SBN, back-end development and user interface development, and reporting to NASA. Some travel may be involved.

The Department of Astronomy includes a large number of planetary scientists working primarily on small bodies and on dynamics, and with participants in a variety of missions including Rosetta, OSIRIS-REx, and New Horizons as well as many research projects (see http://www.astro.umd.edu/rareas/). The Small Bodies Node of NASA’s Planetary Data System has major operations both at the University of Maryland (UMD) and at the Planetary Science Institute in Tucson (locally headed by Eric Palmer). There are many other nearby institutions that are also active in various aspects of both planetary science and astronomy and with varying degrees of direct collaboration with UMD.

Interested applicants should send a cover letter, a complete resume, and a list of references to [email protected]. Applications received by August 25, 2017 will receive full consideration. Salary is commensurate with experience.

The University of Maryland is an Affirmative Action, Equal Opportunity Employer. Women and Minorities are encouraged to apply.