Research Scientist

We seek a candidate for the position of Research Scientist to work with Prof. Edo Berger of the Harvard astronomy department on scientific coordination for the Berger Cosmic Transients Lab.  We seek outstanding candidates with significant experience and deep technical expertise in time-domain or gravitational-wave astrophysics, including experience with observational work in any part of the electromagnetic spectrum.

This is a five-year term position with the possibility of renewal based on satisfactory performance and the availability of funding.

The nominal starting date will be September 1, 2023, but a later start is negotiable depending on the applicant's availability.

Overall Responsibility: The Research Scientist will be responsible for high-level scientific planning, proposal preparation, reporting, outreach, and student/postdoc mentoring and training. Principal duties and responsibilities include:

• Design, propose, and carry out observational projects, including planning new projects and proposing for the relevant telescope resources. 
• Develop research grant proposals, in collaboration with the PI, and lead relevant reporting activities for such grants.
• Prepare presentations, proposals, and manuscripts with the PI, students, and postdoctoral fellows. 
• Mentor graduate students, undergraduate students, and postdoctoral scientists carrying out research in time-domain and gravitational-wave astrophysics.
• Oversee data generation and data analysis activities across various internal and external resources.
• Scientific communication, including presentations of the Cosmic Transients Lab work at national and international meetings.
• Interface with other relevant groups and efforts at the Center for Astrophysics and Harvard.

Basic Qualifications:            

• Applicants must have a PhD in astronomy, astrophysics, or physics with postdoctoral research experience.
• Five years of postdoctoral experience is generally expected.
• Demonstrated success in leading observational programs, including successfully proposing for telescope time (with a preference for demonstrated success with space-based telescope projects).
• Demonstrated success in substantial participation in and/or leadership of grant proposals.
• Excellent record of scientific accomplishments through publications, presentations, and scientific leadership responsibilities.
• Excellent writing and oral communication skills.
• Excellent oversight and mentoring skills.
• Must be able to handle a variety of tasks, to effectively solve problems, and to shift priorities as needed.
• Creativity, curiosity, and the desire, persistence and ability to create scientific advances in the relevant research area.

The following must be submitted for a complete application: Cover Letter; Research Statement; Curriculum Vitae, including a list of publications; Names and contact information of three to five references. Three letters of recommendation are required from ladder faculty ranks or highly accomplished senior researchers, and the application is considered complete only when at least three letters have been received.  All materials and inquiries should be sent by email to [email protected].

Harvard University views equity, diversity, inclusion, and belonging as the pathway to achieving inclusive excellence and fostering a campus culture where everyone can thrive. We strive to create a community that draws upon the widest possible pool of talent to unify excellence and diversity while fully embracing individuals from varied backgrounds, cultures, races, identities, life experiences, perspectives, beliefs, and values.

We are an equal opportunity employer, and all qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, disability status, protected veteran status, gender identity, sexual orientation, pregnancy and pregnancy-related conditions, or any other characteristic protected by law.