Post Doc

Position Description

The Robert C. Byrd Green Bank Telescope (GBT) is the world's largest fully steerable telescope. The Green Bank Observatory is looking for an energetic person to join the scientific staff as a post-doctoral research associate.

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 position is located on in Green Bank, West Virginia, a beautiful yet remote site bordering the Monongahela and George Washington National forests. Located a mere 3.5 hours from Washington, DC, Green Bank offers a wide variety of activities, from skiing, mountain and road biking, hiking, fishing, whitewater rafting and motorcycle touring.
 

Position Summary:

The successful applicant will be working with observers and instruments for the 100-m Robert C. Byrd Green Bank Telescope, the world’s largest, fully steerable telescope.  Job duties can range from aiding observers on the telescope, providing support for GBT observers, reviewing GBT proposals for technical details, aiding scientists and engineers in improving the overall performance of the GBT, and helping test or commission new and refurbished instruments on the GBT. 

Successful applicants will also be granted 50% of their time for independent scientific research of his/her choice.  He/She will also be granted $10,000 annually toward travel and other research expenses

Further information on the job can be found at http://careers.nrao.edu or through contacting the Green Bank Site Director, Dr. Karen O'Neil ([email protected]). Information on Green Bank Observatory and life in Green Bank can be found through http://greenbankobservatory.org/telescopes/gbt/.

 

Essential Duties and Responsibilities

The successful applicant will have 50% of his/her time available for independent research, while 50% of his/her time will be devoted to support of the GBT and GBT observers. The support duties will vary according to the skill set and interests of the successful applicant.

Work Environment:

Work hours are flexible but do require working some evenings and weekends monthly as part of telescope and observer support.

Position Requirements:

The successful applicant must have strong knowledge of radio and/or millimeter astronomy, as well as a strong independent research program. Knowledge and/or experience with radio telescope hardware and software is appreciated but not necessary. Support for research and travel are provided, as well as vacation accrual, health insurance, and a moving allowance. Position will be at the postdoctoral level. The initial appointment can begin immediately and will be for two years, with the possibility of extending for a third year (subject to satisfactory performance and availability of funds).

Minimum Education Requirements: PhD in astronomy, physics or a related field, or expect to have earned a PhD by the starting date of the appointment.

Preferred Experience :All areas of astronomical research are welcome, but expertise in radio astronomical data processing, observing, and/or data pipelines, particularly in the millimeter/submillimeter, is highly desirable.

 

Applicant Instructions:

Please apply online at the Green Bank Observatory Career page at: http://jobs.jobvite.com/nrao/job/ozxG5fwB

 

Combine the following items into a single PDF file; upload by selecting the "Attach Resume/CV" link during the online application process:
- Cover letter
- Curriculum vitae
- Publications list
- A summary of previous, current, and planned research (a maximum of 3 pages of text, including figures and references; 12 pt font);

Each applicant should arrange for letters of reference to be submitted by three individuals (“referees”) familiar with her or his scientific abilities directly to the GB Scientific Search Committee. These letters MUST be received by the application deadline 9/30/2017 at 11:59pm EDT.

Letters should be submitted to Tracy Samples, Green Bank Site Human Resources Manager, via email at [email protected] using the file name “ApplicantNameGBPostDoc.pdf .” Applicants are responsible for ensuring that letters of reference have been sent by their referees by the applicant deadline of 9/30/2017.

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