Project Scientist

Job Duties

• Work with the Chief Scientist to provide scientific leadership for the GMT Project.
• Specific areas of support will include:
• The scientific and logistical organization of the annual Community Science Meetings.
• Serve as an ex-officio member and vice-Chair of the Science Advisory Committee to support the Chair in coordinate the activities and presentations to the SAC and organize SAC meetings.
• Maintain the GMT Observatory Level One Requirements.
• Work closely with the GMT Project Manager, Project Engineer and System Engineer to ensure the implementation of the Level 1 Requirements throughout the construction and commissioning phases.
• Serve as a member of the GMT Change Control Board.
• Works closely with the Science Instrument Element Manager to develop the first-generation science instruments and develop the second-generation instrumentation plan.
• Oversee the development and implementation of the science requirements for the GMT instruments during the development of the first-generation instruments, in collaboration with the Science Instrument Element Manager.
• Work with the Project Manager on the development of the operational plans for the observatory.
• Work with the Lead Systems Engineer to guide commissioning activities.
• Support GMT’s Development and Communications Team as needed.
• Support GMT’s Education and Public Outreach activities as needed.

Essential Skills, Knowledge And Abilities

• A PHD in astronomy, astrophysics, or related field.
• 10 years post-doctoral experience engaged in observational research using ground-based observations.
• Demonstrated analytical, leadership, management, and organizational skills.
• Demonstrated excellence in scientific writing and verbal communication in English.
• Demonstrated ability to work collaboratively and effectively in diverse scientific, technical, and public environments.
• Ability to travel and work in a variety of environments, including the GMTO offices in Pasadena, Santiago (Chile), international GMTO partner sites, and the GMTO site within Las Campanas Observatory (LCO) in Chile.

Desired Skills, Knowledge And Abilities

• Experience in instrument development for ground-based observatories.
• Experience in the development and use of adaptive optics systems on 8-m class telescopes.
• Experience with the daytime and nighttime operation of 8-m class optical observatories.
• Experience supporting the development of international scientific projects.