Scientist (Open Rank)

Submission Information
Publish Date: 
Thursday, August 10, 2017
Archive Date: 
Thursday, September 28, 2017
Job Summary
Job Category: 
Scientific/Technical Staff
Institution Classification/Type: 
Other
Institution/Company: 
Green Bank Observatory
City: 
Green Bank
State/Province: 
West Virginia
Zip/Postal: 
24944
Country: 
United States of America
Announcement
Job Announcement Text: 

We are seeking an enthusiastic and energetic scientist to join the staff of the Green Bank Observatory in Green Bank, West Virginia.

The Green Bank Observatory oversees the development and operation of the Robert C. Byrd Green Bank Telescope (GBT), the world’s largest fully steerable telescope, as well as numerous smaller telescopes which are used for a variety of scientific and educational purposes.   Working at wavelengths 1.5m through 2.6mm, the GBT supports a diverse range of scientific research.  Additionally, the GBT has an ongoing program of research and development projects which keeps the telescope at the cutting edge of science and technology.  

The successful applicant will be joining a staff of over 100 people, including 11 astronomers, who are tasked with the operations, maintenance and long term planning for this facility.

The successful applicant must have strong knowledge of astronomy and/or astronomical instrumentation. A knowledge of, or interest in, mathematical analysis techniques and/or surface holography techniques is desired but not required. The successful candidate will have 25% of their time available for independent research.  Support for research and travel are provided, as well as vacation accrual, health insurance, and a moving allowance.  Position will be at the assistant, associate, or scientist level, depending on experience.

 

Key Duties & Responsibilities

  • On call support for GBT observers.
  • Acting as “friend” for GBT proposals, which includes aiding a project from initiation through publication.
  • Calibration and testing of existing GBT instruments.
  • Aiding in the development of new instruments for the GBT, including writing requirements, project oversight, testing, and/or commissioning of the instrument.
  • Providing scientific leadership for the Green Bank site.
  • Maintaining an active independent research plan which includes the use of Green Bank telescope(s)
  • Proactive compliance with Green Bank Observatory and government safety policies and procedures in own work area is expected.
  • Other duties as assigned.

Position Requirements:

Minimum Education: Ph.D. in astronomy or a related field

 

Required Technical Experience: 

Knowledge of radio and/or millimeter wavelength astronomy

At least 3 years of post-graduate experience

 

Desired Technical Experience:

Knowledge of radio astronomy instrumentation

Ability to clearly convey technical information to software developers, engineers and scientists, interact with peers in a positive and respectful way and calmly resolve conflicts is strongly desired.

 

Physical Conditions/Nature of Work:  Work is typically performed in a research environment consisting of desk work and lab work. Must be able to operate a personal computer and lab instruments.  Must be able to communicate effectively both verbally and in writing.

The position is located at the Green Bank Observatory in Green Bank, WV, an Observatory which combines and academic setting with a rural environment. The successful candidate will join a team of professionals engaged in research and development in the fields of science, engineering, software development, and education.

Applicant Instructions:

Apply online at the Associated University Inc. / NRAO / GBO / LBO Careers page( http://jobs.jobvite.com/nrao/job/o9Pq5fwd) ; upload CV/Resume and letter of interest.

Before you apply, you will need the following materials, combined in a single file, to upload with your application:
 

  1. Cover letter stating why the candidate is interested in this position – the letter should describe how the candidate matches the position and qualifications summarized above (no more than 3 pages)
  2. Curriculum vitae including publications list
  3. Summary of past research (2 pages)
  4. Future research plan describing specifically synergies with the GBT and other AUI facilities.
  5. Summary of past technical and observational experience relevant to this position (2 pages)

Each applicant should arrange for letters of reference to be submitted by three individuals ("referees") familiar with her or his scientific abilities directly to [email protected].  These letters MUST be received by September 30, 2017 (referees should use the format file name "ApplicantName_Sci4263_ref.pdf").  Applicants are responsible for ensuring that letters of reference have been sent by referees.  All required application documents, with the exception of referee letters, should be combined into a single file and uploaded when the application is submitted.  The deadline for receipt of complete applications is September 30, 2017. 

 

                                                           AUI &Green Bank Observatory is an equal opportunity employer (M/F/D/V)

Application Deadline: 
Saturday, September 30, 2017
Selection Deadline: 
Monday, November 13, 2017
Current Status of Position: 
Accepting Applicants
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Please Read Applicant Instructions