Research Positions at STScI – Astronomer/Scientist Track combined- #0002107

Research Positions at STScI – Astronomer/Scientist Track combined- #0002107

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. We are particularly interested in candidates with a background in large-scale surveys (either imaging or spectroscopic), and/or data science and engineering. The former includes survey design and execution, time-domain analyses, data simulation and calibration pipelines, and catalog science verification and exploitation. The latter includes advanced algorithms, statistics, machine learning, research software, big data systems, and use of commercial cloud in support of scientific research.

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 the Hubble, James Webb, and Nancy Grace Roman Space Telescopes 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 independent research. Scientist-track researchers typically spend 80% of their time supporting science operations and 20% on independent research. 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 composed of individuals from our many mission partners.

STScI occupies two 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 120 members. Research projects (http://www.stsci.edu/stsci-research) span a wide range of topics and include collaborations with postdoctoral researchers, research support 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 functional requirements, weighted appropriately for the position.

The STScI on-line application portal will open on March 4, 2021. Applications received by Friday April 30, 2021 will receive full consideration. STScI will request letters of reference upon receipt of a complete application; letters are due no later than Friday May 7, 2021. Applications must be submitted through the direct link below.

Direct Link to Apply:

https://stsci.slideroom.com/#/permalink/program/59902

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.