Exoplanet Science Research positions

Exoplanet Science Research Positions

The Space Telescope Science Institute (STScI) is recruiting for one or more research positions in the field of exoplanet science. We are seeking candidates with interest and/or experience in analysis of space- or ground-based observations of exoplanet transits, with a particular focus on transit and eclipse spectroscopy. Researchers experienced with related theoretical, computational or data analysis techniques are also encouraged to apply.

We are seeking candidates for both tenure-track and scientist-track positions. Applicants must have a Ph.D. or equivalent degree and research experience in astronomy, planetary science, or a related discipline. The successful applicant(s) will provide operational and developmental support for HST, JWST, WFIRST and archives (MAST, including TESS and Kepler data). Tenure-track astronomers spend 50% of their time supporting the science operations mission of the Institute and 50% on personal research. Scientist-track research staff members typically spend 80% of their time supporting science operations and 20% on independent activities. With grant support, scientist-track staff can increase their research fraction up to 50%. Successful candidate should be able to cultivate working relationships and communicate effectively within cross-disciplinary teams that are spread across multiple partners in our missions.

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/stsci-research-topics-and-programs) 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. Research-staff members help formulate the strategic goals of the Institute.

TO APPLY:       https://stsci.slideroom.com/#/permalink/program/44480/dgQ7WNKuch

(Do not use the green "Apply Now" tab at the top right. Applications will ONLY be accepted through the link above.)

Applicants should submit the following materials in a single pdf file: a cover letter, a curriculum vitae and bibliography, and a 2-3 page summary of current and future research interests, including a description of technical skills. Candidates should take advantage of the cover letter to describe their particular interest in working at STScI and indicate whether they wish to be considered for only a tenure-track position, for only a scientist-track position, or for both positions. Applicants will be asked to submit the names and email addresses of three individuals that will be able to write letters of reference on their behalf. References will be contacted through the application system for the letter submissions. Emails will come from:  [email protected]. Applicants should contact their letter writers separately to inform them of the process, since applications will be given full consideration only when all reference letters have been received.

Candidates will be assessed on the basis of their research impact, experience and vision, and on their potential match against STScI’s functional requirements, weighted appropriately for the position.

The STScI on-line application portal will open on August 20, 2018. Applications received by Monday, October 15, 2018 will receive full consideration. STScI will request letters of reference upon receipt of a complete application; letters are due no later than Friday, October 26, 2018. The diversity of the STScI

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