Research Positions at STScI- Astronomer/Scientist Track #0036719

Research Positions at STScI – Astronomer/Scientist Track combined
The Space Telescope Science Institute (STScI) is recruiting for one or more research positions. Candidates working in any research area in astronomy or planetary science will be considered, including star and planet formation, stellar evolution, the interstellar medium, stellar populations, galaxy formation and evolution, and cosmology. We are seeking candidates with experience or interest in space- or ground-based astronomical observations, observatory systems, astronomical instrumentation, archives, data science, user support or science policy. Researchers experienced with theoretical, computational or data analysis techniques are also encouraged to apply. We are particularly interested in candidates with a background in large-scale (imaging & spectroscopic) surveys, time-domain astrophysics, or exoplanet science.

Both astronomer-track (equivalent to tenure-track) and scientist-track positions are available. 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 the data archive (MAST, including TESS and Kepler data). Astronomer-track researchers spend 50% of their time supporting the science operations of the Institute’s missions and 50% on personal research. Scientist-track researchers typically spend 80% of their time supporting science operations and 20% on independent research activities. With grant support, scientist-track staff can increase their research fraction up to 50%. Successful candidate(s) must be able to cultivate strong 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 the Pan-STARRS, LSST, and SDSS V 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( www.stsci.edu/stsci-research 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 symposia, and participate in the activities of the very successful office of public outreach. Research-staff members also help to formulate the strategic goals of the Institute.

Applicants should submit the following materials in a single pdf file: a cover letter, a curriculum vitae and bibliography, and a 2-3 pages 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 an astronomer-track (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 who 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 19, 2019. Applications received by Tuesday, October 15, 2019 will receive full consideration. STScI will request letters of reference upon receipt of a complete application; letters are due no later than Friday, October 25, 2019. Applications must be submitted through the direct link below.

Direct Link to Apply:

https://stsci.slideroom.com/#/permalink/program/50972

The diversity of the STScI staff enhances the dynamic and collegial atmosphere of our scientific community, and reflects our commitment to inclusivity in the broadest sense. Accordingly, women, minorities, veterans, and disabled individuals are strongly encouraged to apply for these positions.

As an Equal Opportunity and Affirmative Action Employer, STScI does not discriminate because of race, sex, color, age, religion, national origin, sexual orientation, lawful political affiliations, veteran status, or mental or physical handicap. Veterans, disabled or wounded warriors needing assistance with the employment process can contact us at [email protected] Salaries and benefits are commensurate with those of AURA member universities.

Included Benefits: -Medical, dental, prescription, and vision -Vacation: Up to 5 weeks of paid vacation a year -Sick Leave: Up to 12 sick days a year -Paid Holidays: 7 regular holidays and 3 personal holidays -Employer-sponsored Retirement Plan: direct company contribution -Employee Voluntary Retirement Savings Plan -Flexible Work Schedules -Telecommuting Options Available -Free Parking -Flexible Spending Accounts -Employee Assistance Program -Company-paid Life, Short-term Disability, and Long-term Disabilities