This job originated on www.usajobs.gov. For the full announcement and to apply, visit www.usajobs.gov/job/481411200. Only resumes submitted according to the instructions on the job announcement listed at www.usajobs.gov will be considered.
This advert is for the position of Astronomer (Post-Doctoral Research Fellow) in the Solar, Stellar, and Planetary Sciences Division (SSP) of the Smithsonian Astrophysical Observatory (SAO) under the supervision of Dr. Matthew Holman. The purpose of this position is to undertake theoretical and observational research related to (a) the detection of Solar System minor planets, and (b) the orbital dynamics of Solar System objects.
10/06/2017 to 12/29/2017
$66,317 - $103,337 per year
IS 11 - 12
1 vacancy in the following location:
Occasional travel - To attend meetings and conferences
No
Temporary - Not To Exceed Two Years
Full-time - Trust Fund. This is not a federal position.
12
No
17-77
481411200
1. Undertake scientific research drawn from the list of potential research topics below:
a. Contribute to the ongoing IMACS occultation survey for sub-km KBOs by undertaking observations using the IMACS instrument on the Magellan Baade telescope.
b. Contribute to the ongoing IMACS occultation survey for sub-km KBOs by refining the data analysis pipeline used to reduce the observational data and detect occultation events.
c. Conduct an unbiased survey of Centaurs and other outer Solar System objects using extant Pan-STARRS data. It is anticipated that this data search will utilize novel heliocentric linking algorithms developed by Holman & Payne.
d. Use the novel heliocentric linking algorithms developed by Holman & Payne to conduct an analysis of the combined Pan-STARRS and DES data sets, with the aim of discovering new Trans-Neptunian Objects and Centaurs.
e. Assist in the augmentation of the novel heliocentric linking algorithms developed by Holman& Payne, with the aim of making said algorithms able to robustly link observations of fast-moving objects (such as NEOs) across long time-spans.
f. Undertake dynamical investigations to elucidate the dynamics of the outer Solar System, with the aim of understanding whether the observed properties of the trans-Neptunian objects can be used to constrain the existence and/or orbit of the putative Planet-9.
2. Prepare scientific manuscripts for journal publication, and present results at relevant scientific meetings and conferences.
3. Perform other scientific duties identified by the Supervisor.
4. Formulate and conduct original programs of independent astronomical research, with an emphasis on understanding the Solar System’s minor planets.
Additional duties at Grade 12:
Formulate and conduct original programs of independent astronomical research, with an emphasis on understanding the Solar System’s minor planets.
Applicants must meet the basic qualification requirements as described in the Office of Personnel Management's Qualification Standards Handbook for General Schedule Positions. These standards may be viewed at the following address on the web at http://www.opm.gov/qualifications/Standards/IORs/gs1300/1330.htm.
The Smithsonian does not pay relocation expenses. The Smithsonian embraces diversity and equal employment opportunity (www.si.edu/oeema).
You will be evaluated for this job based on how well you meet the qualifications above.
You will be evaluated to determine if you meet the minimum qualifications required; and on the extent to which your application shows that you possess the criteria associated with this position as defined below
Knowledge of astrophysics, as may be evidenced by a Ph. D. degree involving research in fields related to astronomy.
Ability to develop and utilize appropriate computer codes and data analysis procedures for application to the designated research areas.
Ability to efficiently analyze large observational data sets.
Knowledge of the published literature on Solar System minor-planet surveys.
Ability to work effectively as part of a research group.
Ability to formulate and undertake scientific investigations under guidance from supervisor
Ability to prepare scientific papers for publication and to present findings at scientific meetings and conferences
To preview questions please click here.
Detailed resume or CV and bibliography
Names, addresses, email addresses, and telephone numbers of three professional references
School transcripts or degree certificate
Proof of U.S. accreditation for foreign study, if applicable
Education must be accredited by an accrediting institution recognized by the U.S. Department of Education in order for it to be credited towards qualifications. Therefore, provide only the attendance and/or degrees from schools accredited by accrediting institutions recognized by the U.S. Department of Education.
Failure to provide all of the required information as stated in this vacancy announcement may result in an ineligible rating or may affect the overall rating.
Click on the "Apply Online" button on the upper right side of the page. If you are applying for the position and do not have a social security number please contact Mary Hebert at 617-496-7816. Please Note:
You will receive an e-mail to acknowledge that your application has been received. If you do not receive an email acknowledgement, you should assume that your application is not complete or has not been received. Please be aware that the confirmation e-mail could reside in your "junk" or "bulk" mail folder depending on your filters.
The Federal hiring process is set up to be fair and transparent. Please read the following guidance.
This job originated on www.usajobs.gov. For the full announcement and to apply, visit www.usajobs.gov/job/481411200. Only resumes submitted according to the instructions on the job announcement listed at www.usajobs.gov will be considered.
Learn more about