Astronomical Data Scientist II

Does your career impact the universe? The Space Telescope Science Institute (STScI) is a multi-mission science and flight operations center for NASA’s flagship observatories. Our world-class astronomical research center is based on the Johns Hopkins University Homewood campus in Baltimore, Maryland. Visit our website to learn more about our missions. This position can support hybrid work. Candidates must reside in or be willing to relocate to our local market to work onsite as needed. (MD, DE, VA, PA, DC & WV).

The Data Management Division at the Space Telescope Science Institute (STScI) is hiring two Staff Astronomical Data Scientists for its Catalog Science Branch (CSB) to support the Mikulski Archive for Space Telescopes (MAST), that archives data from more than 20 missions.

Position 1 - Guide Star Catalog (GSC) archive scientist: You will maintain and support Common Archive Observation Model (CAOM) and GSC, as well as other science catalogs such as PanSTARRS, TESS Source Catalog and Hubble Source Catalog.

Position 2 - Catalog archive scientist: You will develop and maintain MAST archived catalog data product such as Sloan Digital Sky Survey (SDSS), as well as other mission catalog data product such as JWST and Roman.

+Branch Deputy Duties - We are looking also looking for one of the Staff Astronomical Data Scientists to take on the functions of a Branch Deputy. This would be about 10%-15% of your functional role and is a great opportunity for increased scope and leadership responsibility.

Responsibilities for both Staff Astronomical Data Scientist positions:

Participate in the design and development of astronomical catalogs and services that support community usage of catalogs

Assist with prioritization of archive development roadmaps and features

Answer help desk questions from MAST users, especially for those related to astronomical catalogs

Help design solutions for the large data volume catalogs of future missions

Work with other archive scientists and engineers to define projects and priorities for MAST development

Additional Responsibilities as a Deputy Branch Manager:

Assist the branch manager in the overall planning and prioritizing of CSB work, developing strategic plan for future catalogs

Assist the branch manager in supervising functional assignments, career growth and professional development of CSB staff

Provide input for monthly Branch reports, annual MAST reports

Serve as Acting Branch Manager when the branch manager is unavailable

Qualifications:

Expertise (minimum of three years or equivalent knowledge level) in the scientific use of catalogs

Familiarity with modern algorithms for image analysis and processing

Familiarity with grism spectroscopy data processing and analysis

Effective communication skills and the ability to describe astronomical data to a broad science community

US Citizenship or Permanent Residence to meet ITAR requirements

Education/Experience:

Bachelor’s degree in Astronomy or Physics or a comparable degree; an advanced degree in Astronomy, Physics, or a related field is preferred, with 3+ years of experience in an astronomical research role or as an observatory scientist supporting astronomical research. Education or professional background in astronomy, or software development in a research environment is helpful.

The starting position and salary are commensurate with education and experience. We offer an excellent and generous benefits package.

TO APPLY: Share your experience by uploading a resume and cover letter and completing an online application. Applications received by October 12, 2022 will receive full consideration. Applications received after this date will be considered until the position is filled.

Direct link: Staff Astronomical Data Scientist II - #0005569

Explore all career opportunities through our website at www.stsci.edu/opportunities

COVID-19 Working Protocols: https://outerspace.stsci.edu/display/CWP

STScI offers a flexible and welcoming workspace for all. STScI embraces the diversity of our staff as a strategic priority in creating a first-rate community. We reflect this deep dedication by strongly encouraging women, ethnic minorities, veterans, and disabled individuals to apply for these opportunities. Veterans, disabled individuals, or wounded warriors needing assistance with the employment process can contact us at [email protected] EOE/AA/M/F/D/V.

As a leader in the astronomical community, AURA is committed to diversity and inclusion. AURA develops and supports programs that advance our organizational commitment to diversity, broaden participation, and encourage the advancement of diversity throughout the astronomical scientific workforce www.aura-astronomy.org/diversity.asp

As a recipient of U.S. Government funding, AURA is considered a government contractor subject to Equal Employment Opportunity and Affirmative Action regulations. As an Equal Opportunity and Affirmative Action Employer, AURA and all of the centers do not discriminate based on race, sex, age, religion, national origin, sexual orientation, gender identity/gender identity expression, lawful political affiliations, veteran status, disability, and any other legally protected status under applicable federal, state, and local equal opportunity laws. The statements below, as well as the requests for self-identification, are required under these regulations. We encourage your participation in meeting these federal reporting requirements for protection and assisting us in our record-keeping and reporting. Your responses are kept strictly confidential.  #LIHYBRID

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