Astronomy Laboratory Specialist/Observatory Manager – Department of Physics and Astronomy

The Department of Physics and Astronomy at the University of Iowa invites applications for an Astronomy Laboratory Specialist and Observatory Manager

We seek a colleague with a passion for astronomy education, hands-on experience with astronomical instrumentation, strong leadership and communication skills, and enthusiasm for public outreach. We strongly encourage applications from candidates who share our goal of fostering a welcoming and respectful academic environment.

Key Responsibilities:

• Laboratory instruction and support for astronomical observations across the Department’s astronomy curriculum, which makes use of both the on-campus Van Allen Observatory and other small telescopes in the department and supports the MACRO Consortium-managed Robert L. Mutel Telescope (RLMT) in Arizona.
• Management and maintenance of the Van Allen Observatory and facilities.
• Curricular innovation to help shape hands-on, active learning instructional materials, from introductory astronomy courses for non-majors to advanced opportunities for upper-level astronomy and physics students.
• Training and management of graduate teaching assistants in astronomy courses.
• Coordination of public outreach activities involving the Van Allen Observatory and other local outreach events.

For a full job description or questions about this position, please send an email to [email protected].

Education Required:

• A Bachelor’s degree with a major in Astronomy, Astrophysics or closely related field, or an equivalent combination of education and experience is required.

Required Qualifications:

• Practical knowledge of modern astronomical instruments (including a range of small telescopes and CCD cameras) and supporting software applications.
• Demonstrated knowledge of the night sky (planets, constellations, deep sky objects, special events).
• Demonstrated ability to communicate effectively, both orally and in writing with faculty, staff, students and the public.
• Demonstrated ability to work in a team-oriented service and support work environment.
• Must have flexibility in working hours some evening and weekend work is required.

Desired Qualifications:

• Demonstrated teaching experience (> 1 year ) in an undergraduate astronomical laboratory environment.
• Working experience with astronomical imaging and data calibration.
• Working experience in computer networking, especially Windows O/S
• Experience with astronomical laboratory activity design, development and assessment.
• Working experience with many types of telescopes and practical knowledge of functions such as telescope collimation and calibration.
• A Master’s and/or PhD degree in Astronomy or Astrophysics .
• Working experience with astronomical software applications such as MaxIm DL, and TheSkyX.
• Working experience with programming languages such as python.
• Working experience with astronomical outreach events.