ngVLA Assistant Scientist

About the role

The National Radio Astronomy Observatory (NRAO) seeks an Assistant Scientist to support the design and development of the Next-Generation Very Large Array (ngVLA). The appointee will spend 75% of their time on functional work within the ngVLA Science Support Integrated Product Team (IPT), focusing on software requirements for the Computing and Software IPT, calibration and imaging pipelines, and operations workflows. The remaining 25% is reserved for independent research.

Responsibilities

• Support development and prototyping of operations processes and workflows.
• Develop detailed system and subsystem requirements for ngVLA software, including calibration and imaging pipelines and underlying functionality.
• Contribute to calibration strategies under development for the ngVLA.
• Carry out a program of independent astronomical research.

Requirements

• PhD in Astronomy, Astrophysics, Physics or a related field.
• At least three years of related experience after PhD.
• Established record of independent research.
• Research expertise in interferometric radio/millimeter/submillimeter astronomy.
• Demonstrated experience leading a team.
• Demonstrated proficiency working with geographically distributed, multi-disciplinary teams.
• Experience with standard radio astronomy data reduction software (e.g., CASA).
• Experience with observatory capability development and/or observatory operations.
• Highly organized with attention to detail.
• Fluency in English.
• Excellent communication skills, including presentations and writing technical reports.
• Authorization to work in the United States; H-1B sponsorship is not available.

Benefits

• Excellent paid time off (13 holidays, annual accrual of up to 24 vacation days).
• Medical, dental and vision plans effective on the first day of employment.
• Retirement benefit equal to 10% of base pay with no employee contribution required.

Pay

The typical starting salary for an Assistant Scientist is $85,000 per year. Factors such as education, experience, skills, competencies, internal equity and labor market conditions may affect starting pay.