Cosmic Origins Deputy Chief Scientist

Applications are now being accepted for a scientist to work in the Cosmic Origins Program at NASA Goddard Space Flight Center (GSFC) in Greenbelt, MD. The position will support the Astrophysics Science Division (Code 660) and is matrixed to the Astrophysics Projects Division (Code 440). The successful candidate will be hired by The Catholic University of America, with funding through the Center for Research and Exploration in Space Sciences & Technology II (CRESST II).

The Cosmic Origins Program is looking for a scientist who will advance the Program by coordinating scientific and programmatic activities. The successful candidate should have a demonstrated research background, publication record, and leadership experience in an area of Cosmic Origins science, including but not limited to planetary formation, galactic and stellar astronomy, extragalactic astrophysics and/or astrophysics instrumentation and technology development.

Position duties will be divided into two distinct categories. Around 70% of effort will be dedicated to supporting the Cosmic Origins Chief Scientist along with programmatic activities in one or more of the following areas: coordinate with Science Strategy Teams for future great observatories; define and develop Cosmic Origins science gaps and science strategies; develop and oversee science interest groups; participate in astrophysics research community engagement, communications, and advocacy activities; provide scientific advice to the astrophysics technology development program; and participate in cross-program coordination activities with Physics of the Cosmos and Exoplanet Exploration Programs.

The additional 30% will be dedicated to conducting independent research in an area of Cosmic Origins science, including but not limited to planetary formation, galactic and stellar astronomy, extragalactic astrophysics, or astrophysics instrumentation.

This position demands professional networking and interpersonal skills. The candidate must be able to cultivate productive, collaborative professional relationships based on empathy and trust with colleagues at all levels within the organization including administrative and support staff, engineers, management, and scientists both within NASA and with colleagues in the wider astrophysics community. The successful candidate should be sensitive to issues of diversity, equity, and inclusion with a commitment to foster a workplace environment that is respectful and empowering. The Cosmic Origins Program seeks to cultivate an inclusive, creative, and collaborative team environment.

Additional skills required include a willingness to take initiative and solve problems constructively and creatively with interest in building a program, team, and organization; synthesize complex technical and scientific concepts simply with a minimum of jargon; communicate effectively with people from a broad range of backgrounds including scientists, engineers, and administrative and management professionals; organize and plan effectively to meet milestones and objectives; finally, possess curiosity, a passion for learning, and willingness to venture beyond one's area of expertise including and surpassing the full breadth of the Cosmic Origins portfolio.

Candidates should have a Ph.D. in Astronomy, Physics, or a related discipline and at least 4+ years of post-Ph.D. experience relevant to the position. The initial funding for this position will be for up to full-time support for one year, renewable on an annual basis depending on performance and funding availability. Candidates should send a complete application – which includes a cover letter, Curriculum Vitae, and contact information for three references – to Ms. Katherine McKee ([email protected]) by October 15, 2022, for full consideration. The position will remain available until filled.

For more information about the duties or the Cosmic Origins Program, contact Dr. Peter Kurczynski ([email protected]). For information on The Catholic University of America and CRESST II, contact Dr. Tommy Wiklind ([email protected]).