Candidate Statement: Jan M. Vrtilek

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Nominated Office: Councilor

Affiliation: Harvard-Smithsonian Center for Astrophysics

Position/title: Astrophysicist, High Energy Astrophysics Division and Chandra X-ray Center

PhD institution: Harvard University (1983)

Areas of scientific interest:

  • Study of groups and clusters of galaxies with X-ray and radio methods
  • Planning and operation of current and future space missions
  • Astronomical instrumentation

AAS positions:

  • Executive Committee, High Energy Astrophysics Division (2011-2014)

Other relevant positions and experience:

  • Visiting Senior Scientist, NASA HQ (1993-1995)
  • Experience with flight and grants programs
  • Guest observer at optical, radio, and submillimeter facilities
  • Organizer of meetings and symposia (recent: IAU 2012, Chandra workshop 2011, AAS 2011)
  • Member or chair of NASA and NRAO review panels (1992-present)

Candidate Statement: Our science is at a historic peak, with major facilities delivering superb data and several more in development, a flow of significant discoveries, healthy scientific links to other disciplines, and an effective system of communicating results. Yet we recognize pervasive concern about our ability to extend this position into a future of restricted funding and uncertain public commitments.

This assessment suggests the following positions: 

(1) We are the beneficiaries of an outstanding Society built throughout a century’s work; our first effort must be to exercise responsible stewardship. We build on committed members, an expert Washington staff, publications of global reach, and a legacy of financial strength.
(2) The AAS is at its core a mechanism of communication. I would pay particular attention to making our meetings attractive in subjects, location, and affordability; to the ongoing effort to improve the quality and efficiency of our publications; and to expanding the effectiveness of our outreach.
(3) Many of our members, especially those early in their careers, are severely stressed by instability of support. The AAS has limited reach here, but can reduce friction by focus on improving its program of information and tutorials, development of best practices, and dissemination of statistics.