Adaptive Optics- Post Doctoral Research Associate

The National Solar Observatory (NSO) currently has an Adaptive Optics Research Associate position open within the Daniel K. Inouye Solar Telescope (DKIST) program. Corporate Head Quarters are in Boulder, CO and the DKIST is under construction in Maui, Hawaii on the summit of Haleakala. The successful candidate will contribute to the development of state-of-the-art AO technology for DKIST, including MCAO, Ground Layer AO and Prominence AO. He/She is expected to support ongoing development efforts and, as needed, take leadership for subsystems and/or systems such as
prominence AO.  This position will have a Term Appointment of 2-3 years duration

Essential functions include:

• Support prototype system development for prominence AO.
• Collaborate closely with partners at NJIT/BBSO and Kiepenheuer Institute in Freiburg Germany.
• Support DKIST MCAO planning and definition of DKIST MCAO/GLAO implementation.
• Publish results of research activities in appropriate journals
• Performs such other duties as may be assigned.

Requirements:

• PhD in Astronomy, Physics, Solar Physics or related discipline
• Working knowledge of adaptive optics
• Experience with development and implementation of AO and MCAO systems.
• Hands on experience with optical systems in the laboratory and/or at telescopes would be an advantage.
• Ability to perform independent research in instrumentation development, including system modeling and simulation.
• Must be able to communicate effectively, both verbally and in writing, with internal and external contacts at all organizational levels.
• Experience with development of formal specifications would be of advantage.

Please provide 3 professional references in your application and attach a CV or resume to your application. Application documents that are not uploaded as part of the application may be sent to [email protected].  NSO will be accepting applications until the position is filled.

The Association of Universities for Research in Astronomy (AURA) is a consortium of over 40 US institutions and international affiliates that operates world-class astronomical observatories. AURA’s role is to establish, nurture, and promote public observatories and facilities that advance innovative astronomical research. AURA is responsible for managing the operations of the Gemini Observatory, the National Optical Astronomical Observatory, the National Solar Observatory, the Space Telescope Science Institute, and the construction of the Large Synoptic Survey Telescope (LSST) and the Daniel K. Inouye Solar Telescope under cooperative agreements with NASA and the National Science Foundation.

AURA, as a leader in the astronomical community, 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. Learn more at http://www.aura-astronomy.org/diversity.asp.

As a recipient of U.S. Government funding, AURA is considered a government contractor and is subject to Equal Employment Opportunity and Affirmative Action regulations. As an Equal Opportunity and Affirmative Action Employer, AURA does not discriminate based on race, sex, color, age, religion, national origin, sexual orientation, gender identity/gender identity expression, lawful political affiliations, veteran status, disability, and/or any other legally protected status under applicable federal, state, and local equal opportunity laws.

Veterans, disabled individuals or wounded warriors needing assistance with the employment process should request assistance at [email protected]