Permanent Track Research Astronomer

The Smithsonian Astrophysical Observatory (SAO) invites applications from highly qualified individuals for at least two permanent-track research astronomer openings, with potentially as many as four openings depending on funding availability and candidate qualifications. These positions are analogous to a tenure-track assistant professorship. To leverage next-generation telescopes and research opportunities, the SAO priority areas for hiring this year are in time-domain astronomy, extrasolar planets, Earth observing, and instrumentation development for new ground and space facilities. However, outstanding candidates in all fields of astronomy and astrophysics will be considered. Junior and mid-career scientists with an established track record of major scientific achievement are encouraged to apply.

The SAO is a member of the Center for Astrophysics | Harvard and Smithsonian (CfA), a diverse astrophysical institution at which 800 staff and students are engaged in a broad program of research and education in astronomy, astrophysics, and earth and space sciences. CfA’s research includes star, galaxy, and planet formation and evolution, solar and stellar astrophysics, cosmology, and laboratory astrophysics. The CfA Institute for Theory and Computation (ITC) is developing state-of-the-art simulations of galaxy formation in the universe, large-scale structure in the universe, black holes and accretion of gas around these objects, the first stars, the search for life, and planet formation.

The SAO has multidisciplinary engineering and project management teams that allow CfA astronomers to develop new ground-based instrumentation, flight, rocket, and satellite missions essential for advancing astronomical research. The 70-person SAO engineering team includes experts in mechanical, structural, thermal, electrical, optical, and systems engineering, ensuring a comprehensive approach to technology design and construction. The Project Management Office delivers industry-standard project management for ground and space technology programs, aligned with NASA standards for space missions. The SAO offers incubator-style innovation design labs to develop instrumentation and telescope ideas into fundable proposals.

Permanent-track astronomers will be appointed for a four-year term with extensions of up to two years. Following a formal review of your scholarly achievement, leadership, service, and mentorship at the end of the fourth year, you may be considered for a permanent Federal position, which will require eligibility for permanent employment in the U.S.

The successful candidate(s) are expected to develop and lead a vibrant, independent research program and contribute to the community, education and public engagement mission of SAO. SAO will provide a highly competitive support package, including a twelve-month salary based on experience and qualifications; an annual research discretionary allowance; funds to support a research group; access to internal funds to support innovation, bids & proposals, research & development, travel, visitors, conferences, and workshops; office space; and access to CfA telescopes including telescope time on the Multiple Mirror Telescope in Arizona, the Magellan Telescope in Chile, the Submillimeter Array in Hawaii, and a range of telescopes at the Fred Lawrence Whipple Observatory. SAO is a partner in the Giant Magellan Telescope, the CMB S4 experiment, and is leading the next generation Event Horizon Telescope project. SAO operates the Chandra X-ray Satellite, the TEMPO pollution monitor satellite, and SWEAP on the Parker Solar Probe. SAO is a partner in MethaneSAT which aims to map human-made emissions globally, to help reduce methane pollution.

Applicants must have a Doctorate or terminal degree in Astronomy, Physics, or related discipline and a significant record of independent research accomplishment for at least three years beyond Ph.D. Candidates are encouraged to apply by December 2, 2024; applications will be reviewed until the positions are filled.

SAO Permanent Track Research Astronomer Openings

Key Responsibilities: Conduct original and innovative research in astronomy or astrophysics and a demonstrated ability to work independently and collaboratively. Publish results in leading peer-reviewed scientific journals. Secure external funding to support research activities. Contribute to the development of new research initiatives and programs within the observatory. Supervise and mentor junior researchers, postdoctoral fellows, and graduate students. Contribute to the community, education, and public engagement mission of the CfA.

Qualifications: A Ph.D. in astronomy, astrophysics, or a closely related field. Experience working in observational, theoretical, experimental, or computational astronomy. Significant postdoctoral research experience. A strong record of research accomplishments, including peer-reviewed publications. Demonstrated ability to secure research funding. Ability to collaborate with diverse teams across disciplines.

Additional Information: Position Type: Permanent-track. Location: Cambridge, Massachusetts (part of the Center for Astrophysics | Harvard & Smithsonian). Salary: Commensurate with experience and qualifications.