Senior Research & Instrument Analyst- #03013

Share in the thrill of space exploration and join our team! The Space Telescope Science Institute (STScI) has openings for Senior Research and Instrument Analysts (RIAs) in our Instruments Division. This is a phenomenal opportunity for you to launch a stable long-term career in astronomy. We have openings for experienced candidates. A PhD in relevant fields is preferred but all academic levels will be considered. Salary will be commensurate with your education and experience. STScI provides a comprehensive benefit package, flexible work schedules and generous retirement.

As a Senior RIA, you will typically work on an instrument team to support the development and operations of one of our flagship missions: the Hubble Space Telescope (HST), the James Webb Space Telescope (JWST), and the Wide-Field InfraRed Survey Telescope (WFIRST). You will be expected to provide support in all phases of instrument calibration, including the collection, reduction, organization, analysis, and interpretation of data (from e.g. spectrographs, cameras, coronagraphs) to optimize the scientific return of our flagship missions. Additional experience with spectroscopy, either from the ground or space telescopes, is a plus.

You will also provide user support to our worldwide community of researchers on various aspects of observation planning and data analysis. Opportunities exist for becoming involved in ground breaking astronomical research by supporting projects led by our science staff. Such support can involve conducting astronomical observations, calibrating and reducing science data, photometry, spectroscopy, image drizzling, software development, and laboratory work in astronomical instrumentation.
 

Who are we looking for?
You are dedicated, hardworking, self-motivated, and eager to learn, requiring only minimum supervision. You want to contribute to state of the art astronomy in a work environment that respects and relies upon the diversity of its staff. You demonstrate strong professionalism, versatility, organization, teamwork, and analytical problem-solving skills. You are able to lead and supervise others in a team/project environment. You have a PhD degree in astronomy, physics, astrophysics, planetary science, mathematics, aerospace engineering, or related fields. Substitution of additional relevant education or experience for the stated qualifications will be considered.  You have demonstrated experience in two or more of the following areas: astronomical data calibration and reduction (e.g., spectroscopy, imaging), scientific instrumentation, astronomical observatory operations, astronomical research, statistical analysis, scientific programming, and development/use of astronomical software packages. You are a US citizen or permanent resident (green card holder).

You are invited to apply
The application process will go live on June 3, 2019. The application deadline is July 12, 2019. Please submit a cover letter as well as a resume or CV with details of relevant technical skills or experience, and the names of three people who have agreed to provide a letter of reference upon request. You are invited to complete an on-line application at:

https://stsci.slideroom.com/#/permalink/program/48796/GjUzVuhwnU

(Do not use the green "Apply Now" tab at the top right. Applications will ONLY be accepted through the link above.)

The Space Telescope Science Institute is located on the Johns Hopkins University Homewood campus. We offer competitive salaries and an overall excellent compensation package, tuition reimbursement, and a stimulating and inclusive work environment. STScI sees the diversity of our staff as a strategic priority in our goal to build a top-notch scientific community. We reflect that deep dedication by strongly encouraging women, minorities, veterans and disabled persons to apply for these opportunities.

As an Equal Opportunity and Affirmative Action Employer, STScI does not discriminate because of race, sex, color, age, religion, national origin, sexual orientation, lawful political affiliations, veteran status, or mental or physical handicap. Veterans, disabled or wounded warriors needing assistance with the employment process can contact us at [email protected].