ESA/AURA Astronomer I- #0001896

One astronomer position is available at the Space Telescope Science Institute (STScI), sponsored by the European Space Agency (ESA). The European Space Agency (ESA) has an office with scientific personnel at the Space Telescope Science Institute (STScI) as part of its collaboration with NASA for the missions operated at STScI like HST and JWST.

There is currently one opening for astronomers funded by the ESA Directorate for Science, through a contract with the STScI. This scientific position is a three-year term, renewable contract with salaries and benefits commensurate with those of AURA employees at the STScI.

The initial assignment for this astronomer positions will be in direct support to the JWST MID-Infrared Instrument (MIRI) with an initial focus on supporting the execution of the on-orbit commissioning and calibration programs. During routine operations, in general, functional duties encompass all activities in support of the instruments onboard JWST. This includes but is not limited to support to the characterization, on orbit testing and calibration of the scientific instruments, direct support to the user community during the preparation, implementation and execution of the observing programs.

Beside instrument support, astronomers work in key areas throughout STScI including user support, observation planning and scheduling, and archival support. Other duties could also include the scientific oversight of projects to further improve the missions observing efficiency and user interfaces, or related to the scientific use of the missions archives.

Astronomers spend 50% in support of ESA-NASA partnered science missions operated at STScI and 50% of their time on personal research. Therefore, the successful candidates will be expected to maintain an active program of research in astronomy, in addition to carrying out functional tasks related to the missions they support within STScI.

The STScI professional environment is stimulating and intended to facilitate independent research. STScI supports postdoctoral, graduate student and visitor programs, workshops and meetings, and has excellent computer, technical and library infrastructure.

Candidates for these positions must have a Ph.D. or equivalent degree in astronomy or physics or related discipline, with a strong, established record of independent research and scientific publications and excellent technical skills, in order to provide first-class support to the multi- faceted needs of the missions. The primary qualifications we are seeking are excellence in observational or instrumental research. Expertise with imaging and integral field spectroscopy spectroscopy in the MID-Infrared, and/or previous experience in science operations of astronomical space missions are considered key assets. Knowledge of the MIRI Instrument would be a plus.

Efforts are made to suitably match the background and experience of qualified candidates to current mission needs. In the future, technical support to other ESA-NASA partnered missions scientifically operated at STScI could be possible, contingent upon performance and candidate expertise, program needs and funding.

Applications are encouraged from both junior and senior astronomers, as the experience and accomplishment of the successful applicants will determine the level of the appointment.

Note: The above details minimum requirements as well as targeted skills and experience. Research demonstrates that individuals from marginalized groups may feel that they have to meet requests for all of the skills and experience before applying. We remind you that this is not the case. We will consider other relevant qualifications when evaluating your application for this position. We strongly encourage you to apply.

STScI occupies multiple sites surrounding the campus of the Johns Hopkins University (JHU) in Baltimore, MD. It maintains close connections with the JHU Physics and Astronomy Department and is a partner in both the Pan-STARRS and LSST consortia. STScI values diversity and has a research staff mentoring program and access to annual training programs. The research environment engages, stimulates and supports an international research staff with over 100 members. Research projects (http://www.stsci.edu/stsci-research) span a wide range of topics and include collaborations with postdoctoral researchers, research instrument analysts and JHU graduate students, as well as researchers from other institutions. Researchers lead the organization of annual workshops and larger-scale meetings, and participate in the activities of the very successful office of public outreach.

**Most STScI staff are working from home during the COVID-19 crisis. The safety of our staff and community is our top priority. We will continue to interview and screen candidates in this new virtual landscape. Offers of employment are being extended and new hires on-board virtually. We ship systems to you to enable working from home until it is safe to report to our Baltimore offices. If applicable, relocation benefits are available to those eligible when travel can be supported.

STScI is an Equal Opportunity, Affirmative Action Employer and one of its goals is to develop an inclusive and diverse environment. Therefore, women and minority candidates are strongly encouraged to apply. As these contracts are funded by ESA, nationals from ESA member states are strongly encouraged to apply.

Applicants should submit the following materials in a single pdf file: a cover letter, a curriculum vitae and bibliography, up to 3 page summary of current and future research interests and a description of their technical skills. Candidates should take advantage of the cover letter to describe their particular interest in working for ESA at STScI. Applicants are also asked to provide, in a separate file, the names and email addresses of three individuals who will be able to write letters of reference on their behalf. STScI will contact References to provide support letters later in the selection process.

TO APPLY:   https://stsci.slideroom.com/#/permalink/program/59031

Applications received by January 19, 2020 will receive full consideration. Position inquiries may be directed to:

[email protected]

ESA / AURA sees the diversity of our staff as a strategic priority in our desire to build a first-rate scientific community. We reflect that deep commitment in strongly encouraging women, minorities, veterans and disabled individuals to apply for these opportunities.