Assistant Research Professor, Steward Observatory (Career-Track)

Steward Observatory seeks to fill a Research Professor position to support exoplanet science within the Center for Astronomical Adaptive Optics (CAAO). This faculty member will bridge the gap between science and instrumentation, informing, commissioning, and analyzing exoplanet direct imaging instruments and datasets. The position will support new and in-progress space instruments for coronagraphy and high-resolution astronomy while advancing the technology readiness of a variety of approaches through simulation, analysis, reduction, and publication.

Recently selected to build the Lazuli instruments and leading the GMagAO-X instrument, Steward Observatory provides direct access to various world-class facilities for ground-based radio and optical observing. Among these are the Large Binocular Telescope and 6.5m aperture telescopes located in both the Northern and Southern Hemispheres. Applicants will be eligible to submit their own science proposals and lead independent research programs. As a key member of the research team, the successful candidate will play an active role in defining and implementing science priorities, mentoring students and postdocs, and developing cutting-edge tools for high-contrast imaging.

This career-track appointment is not eligible for tenure. This position may be eligible for a hybrid work assignment in conversation with the supervisor.

Visa sponsorship is not available for this position.

Outstanding U of A benefits include health, dental, and vision insurance plans; life insurance and disability programs; paid vacation, sick leave, and holidays; U of A/ASU/NAU tuition reduction for the employee and qualified family members; retirement plans; access to U of A recreation and cultural activities; and more!

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• Support
  high-contrast imaging projects within the Center for Astronomical Adaptive
  Optics (CAAO).
• Mentor students in
  best practices for exoplanet imaging and astronomical data reduction.
• Build
  and contribute to target selection and data reduction tools.
• Organize
  exoplanet science journal clubs and symposia within the CAAO.

Knowledge,
Skills, and Abilities (KSAs):

• Proven ability to collaborate across disciplines.

• PhD in
  astronomy, optics, physics, engineering, or a related field.
• Minimum
  of 5 years of experience in high-contrast imaging or coronagraphy.

• Experience in exoplanet atmosphere modeling.
  
• Experience in team management in high-stress environments.
  
• Experience with modern software development practices and documentation, including Python and Git.
  
• Experience managing priorities across teams.
  
• Experience commissioning an astronomical instrument.
  
• Experience mentoring students.