Project Scientist

Work with the Chief Scientist to provide scientific leadership for the GMT Project.

Specific areas of support will include:

• The scientific and logistical organization of the annual Community Science Meetings.
• Serve as an ex-officio member and vice-Chair of the Science Advisory Committee to support the Chair in coordinate the activities and presentations to the SAC and organize SAC meetings.
• Monitor and refine the scientific, functional, and operational requirements for the Observatory as appropriate, responding to evolution of the field and input from the community and Project.
• Maintain the GMT Observatory Level One Requirements.
• Work closely with the GMT Project Manager, Project Engineer and System Engineer to ensure the implementation of the Level 1 Requirements throughout the construction and commissioning phases.
• Serve as a member of the GMT Change Control Board.
• Works closely with the Science Instrument Element Manager to develop the first-generation science instruments and develop the second-generation instrumentation plan.
• Oversee the development and implementation of the science requirements for the GMT instruments during the development of the first-generation instruments, in collaboration with the Science Instrument Element Manager.
• Work with the Project Manager on the development of the operational plans for the observatory.
• Work with the Lead Systems Engineer to guide commissioning activities.
• Support GMT’s Development and Communications Team as needed.
• Support GMT’s Education and Public Outreach activities as needed.

• A PHD in astronomy, astrophysics, or related field.
• 10 years post-doctoral experience engaged in observational research using ground-based observations.
• Demonstrated analytical, leadership, maangement, and organizational skills.
• Demonstrated excellence in scientific writing and verb al communication in English.
• Demonstrated ability to work collaboratively and effectively in diverse scientific, technical, and public environments.
• Ability to travel and work in a variety of environments, including the GMTO offices in Pasadena, Santiago (Chile), international GMTO partner sites, and the GMTO site within Las Campanas Observatory (LCO) in Chile.

• Experience in instrument development for ground-based observatories
• Experience in the development and use of adaptive optics systems on 8-m class telescopes
• Experience with the daytime and nighttime operation of 8-m class optical observatories.
• Experience supporting the development of international scientific projects.

• Open-plan office spaces
• Indoor and outdoor fabrication and construction sites
• National and international travel

• Ability to travel by air between US, Chile, and international work sites
• Ability to function safely and effecitvely in remote and high elevation (2500m/8500ft) observatory environments

• Medical Insurance
• Vision Insurance
• 401(k)
• Dental Insurance
• Disability Insurance

$155,000-$240,000

The salary for this role will be set based on a variety of factors, including but not limited to, internal equity, experience, education, and training.

We are an equal opportunity employer.

All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to age, race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, or national origin, disability status, protected veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by law.

If you are a qualified individual with a disability or a disabled veteran, you have the right to request an accommodation if you are unable or limited in your ability to use or access our career center as a result of your disability.

To request an accommodation, contact a Giant Magellan Telescope Corporation Human Resources Representative.