Astronomical Data Scientist II

Astronomical Data Scientist II

The Space Telescope Science Institute (STScI) is a multi-mission science operations center for finding stars and galaxies in the universe. Our world-class astronomical research center is based on the Johns Hopkins University Homewood campus in Baltimore, Maryland. Learn more about our missions - https://www.stsci.edu/what-we-do.

Description:

The Data Management Division (DMD) at the Space Telescope Science Institute (STScI) is seeking an astronomical data scientist to support the Mikulski Archive for Space Telescopes (MAST). MAST is the public data archive for more than 20 missions spanning more than 30 years. The DMD is responsible for a multi-petabyte astronomical data archive that maintains Hubble Space Telescope (HST), James Webb Space Telescope (JWST), Kepler, GALEX, TESS, and the future Nancy Grace Roman Space Telescope (Roman) Mission data.

Job Summary:

This candidate will lead archive activities and science data exploration related to large scale astronomical dataset, provide scientific guidance on catalog development efforts and support the Mikulski Archive for Space Telescopes (MAST) data products, tools, and interfaces.

This position can support hybrid work. This position can support hybrid work. Candidates must reside in or be willing to relocate to our local market. (MD, DE, VA, PA, DC & WV). Relocation assistance provided.

This position requires US Citizenship or Permanent Residence in order to meet ITAR requirements.

Duties and Responsibilities:

Regular:

• Participate in the design and development of cloud-based solutions for storing, processing and managing astronomical catalogs and services that support community usage of catalogs
• Maintain and support mission source catalogs such as Roman Source Catalog(s) to ensure the integrity, accessibility, and security of astronomical datasets.
• Participate cloud tool development for massive catalog dataset exploration
• Support catalog data searching across multiple archive centers
• Answer help desk questions from scientific users, especially for those related to astronomical catalogs

Requirements:

• Minimum of 5 years’ experience in astronomy or astrophysics 
• Expertise (minimum of three years or equivalent knowledge level) in the scientific use of catalogs
• Experience in Python scripting, including the use of common Python-based astronomy packages
• Familiarity with AWS Cloud related tools/services
• Effective communication skills and the ability to describe astronomical data to a broad science community
• Ability to maintain effective working relationships with other scientific, technical, and administrative staff
• Ability to analyze and solve problems independently, as well as work collaboratively and communicate effectively with multi-disciplinary teams and leadership

Preferred Qualifications:

• Expertise in one (or both) of the following fields of study:
• Extragalactic astrophysics
• Time domain and multi-messenger (TDAMM) astrophysics
• Experience working with and analyzing/processing massive catalogs
• Experience with Git or other similar software version control tools
• Experience applying machine learning algorithms/tools to produce/analyze astronomical catalogs
• Experience with database SQL scripts

Required Education:

Ph.D. in Astronomy or equivalent field.

NOTE: Substitution of additional relevant education or experience for stated qualifications may be considered.

Salary range is $86,000 - $106,000.

Compensation is commensurate with education and experience. Our excellent benefits include:

• Employer retirement contribution – direct STScI contribution of 10% of your salary from your first day
• 12 days sick leave, up to 24 days’ vacation, and 10 paid holidays
• Flexible work schedule with healthy work/life balance
• Comprehensive medical/dental/vision/prescription plans, and more!

TO APPLY: Please upload a resume, cover letter and online application using this link: Astronomical Data Scientist II

Applications received by 10/30/2024 will receive full consideration. Applications received after this date will be considered until the position is filled.

Explore all career opportunities at www.stsci.edu/opportunities

STScI offers a flexible and welcoming workspace for all. STScI embraces the diversity of our staff as a strategic priority in creating a first-rate community. We strongly encourage women, ethnic minorities, veterans, and disabled individuals to apply for these opportunities. Veterans, disabled individuals, or wounded warriors needing assistance with the employment process can contact us at careers@stsci.edu EOE/AA/M/F/D/V.

As a leader in the astronomical community, AURA is committed to diversity and inclusion. AURA develops and supports programs that advance our organizational commitment to diversity, broaden participation, and encourage the advancement of diversity throughout the workforce www.aura-astronomy.org/diversity.asp

As a recipient of U.S. Government funding, AURA is considered a government contractor subject to Equal Employment Opportunity and Affirmative Action regulations. As an Equal Opportunity and Affirmative Action Employer, AURA and all of the centers do not discriminate based on race, sex, age, religion, national origin, sexual orientation, gender identity/gender identity expression, lawful political affiliations, veteran status, disability, and any other legally protected status under applicable federal, state, and local equal opportunity laws. The statements below, as well as the requests for self-identification, are required under these regulations. We encourage your participation in meeting these federal reporting requirements for protection and assisting us in our record-keeping and reporting. Your responses are kept strictly confidential.