NSO Seeks Polarimetry Scientist

The Association of Universities for Research in Astronomy, Inc. (AURA) operates several observatory centers (including the National Optical Astronomy Observatory, the National Solar Observatory, Large Synoptic Survey Telescope and the Gemini Observatory) in the United States and Chile under cooperative agreements with the National Science Foundation.

The National Solar Observatory (NSO) Daniel K. Inouye Solar Telescope (DKIST) project is seeking a Polarimetry Scientist to provide science support and scientific guidance to the DKIST construction effort, in particular, in the areas of polarimetry, calibration, analysis and the scientific exploitation of spectroscopic and spectro-polarimetric data.

The successful candidate will perform a DKIST related personal research program making effective use of the available research time. During the construction phase of DKIST the incumbent will support development of subsystem specifications and the subsystems and science verification process and activities. The incumbent will closely interface with the DKIST operations development effort and contribute to planning and implementing a smooth transition from construction to operations. After completion of the construction phase this position will transition into DKIST operations. The incumbent will provide support to DKIST users and perform forefront scientific research with DKIST with focus on spectroscopic and polarimetric observations. As part of the broader DKIST science team the incumbent is expected to closely interact with all instrument partners supporting the planning the integration, test and commissioning phase and planning of and participation in first light observations with DKIST. He/She is expected to be an effective representative and advocate for DKIST science to the community and participate in outreach activities to promote the DKIST science goals to the broader science community and the public. The position is planned to be located initially in Boulder, Colorado and then to relocate to Maui, Hawaii in 2019; if a candidate preferred, the position could be located in Maui, Hawaii immediately with travel to Boulder.

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS:

Guide and support development of DKIST instrument systems for spectroscopy and polarimetry During the available research time perform DKIST related scientific research focused on solar spectroscopy and polarimetry. Support specification and development of analysis tools and procedures. Interface with DKIST Data Center effort. Transfer data calibration methods and algorithm products developed during construction. During operations support definition and implementation of data processing algorithms Work with instrument partners to prepare and execute the IT&C phase, in particular, of spectroscopic and polarimetric instrument systems Participate in definition and, during operations, execution of DKIST critical science plans Support community in their efforts to prepare for DKIST observations and DKIST science. Support education of students and public outreach

Requirements: PHD in Physics, Astronomy or related discipline Substantial experience in observational solar astronomy. Several years of experience using solar spectrometers and polarimeters, performing spectro-polarimetric observations, analyzing spectro-polarimetric data and producing forefront science results. Scientific productivity demonstrated by publication record. Experience with ground-based solar telescopes and instrumentation Excellent communication skills Self-motivated and able to work independently. Experience with producing formal systems specification documents, working closely with engineering teams during design and integration of astronomical instrumentation would be a plus.

AURA/NSO is an affirmative action & equal opportunity employer. AURA actively supports efforts to broaden participation in all Observatory activities and fosters a diverse research environment. Women and candidates from under-represented minorities are particularly encouraged to apply. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, or national origin. We are also an equal opportunity employer of individuals with disabilities and protected veterans.

Please apply online at: www.aura-astronomy.org/hr/joblist.asp

Amy Davidson