Software Developer for the Dragonfly FRO

Dragonfly is a Convergent Research Focused Research Organization (FRO). Our mission is to capture the faint cosmic web of gas that connects galaxies across the universe, using a groundbreaking distributed-aperture telescope with over 1000 high-end telephoto lenses. Projected to span five years, our project includes two years of construction followed by three years of science operations. 

We are looking for an expert Software Developer to aid in the development and successful deployment of the data reduction pipeline (“Algorithmic Software Developer”). As the Algorithmic Software Developer, you will develop algorithms and methodologies to effectively combine the thousands of 2D images that are produced by the telescope into 3D data products, appropriately controlling for the behavior of the optics and detector systematics. You will closely collaborate with the other members of the Dragonfly team, and report to the Software Lead. With strong performance reflected in yearly reviews, this position offers a commitment for the entire five-year life of the project.

Responsibilities

• • Development of key components of a data reduction and analysis pipeline, delivering science-grade data. This pipeline will be continuously developed and improved during the project, and will be built on existing tools written in Python and leveraging NoSQL frameworks.
  • Adopt a scalable approach to software development, making use of the redundant nature of the distributed-aperture array.
  • Explore and develop novel algorithms for handling novel narrowband data, including bad-data identification and removal, mitigations for image quality deficiencies, ideal combination methods for narrowband and medium band (continuum) data. In particular, developing algorithms for determining the spatially varying bandpass in images and using this, with images of a variety of tilts, to create “data cubes”. 
  • Ensure algorithms are scalable to massive datasets with fast runtimes, both via standard vectorizations and parallelizations and via new technologies, e.g., GPU-accelerated tasks (such as jax). 
  • Work closely with the Operations team to integrate the reduction pipeline into the data-center powered, scaled environment.

Qualifications

• • PhD in Astronomy/Astrophysics, Physics, or a related field.
  • Extensive experience working with astronomical imaging and reduction. 
  • Familiarity with database architectures such as SQL and MongoDB and cloud environments for storage and computing.
  • Passion for improving software tooling in scientific applications.
  • Proven track record in building software, particularly in astronomical applications.
  • Excellent collaborator in group-based projects, and disciplined in solo projects.
  • Effective communicator to outside experts.
  • Creative, out-of-the-box thinking and proven problem-solving skills.
  • Highly organized with attention to detail.
  • Focus on function and robustness of software tools, goal-oriented approach to design.
  • Ability to set priorities and milestones, monitor progress, and meet deadlines.
  • Ability to adapt to changing projects and goals.

What we offer

• • Flexible working hours and location, although residence at one of our hubs (New Haven, CT; Toronto, CA; Victoria, CA) is preferred. The FRO is goal-oriented and works largely remotely, with occasional in-person team meetings.
  • Shared credit in all scientific discoveries of the array; this includes co-authorship of scientific papers, credit in press releases, etc.
  • Competitive salary: $110,000 - $130,000 per year, depending on experience, qualifications, and location.
  • Excellent benefits, including (for US-based employees):
  • Great medical, dental, and vision insurance options, with many $0 premium options for employees and their families
  • Up to 16 weeks parental leave
  • Up to 20 days PTO, 19 company holidays, and 2 weeks sick leave every 12 months
  • 401(k) with up to a 6% employer match
  • Employer paid life insurance, AD&D, and short- and long-term disability insurance
  • Generous childcare reimbursement
  • Wellness allowance for fitness and wellness activities.