The Space Telescope Science Institute (STScI) expects to have one or more openings for scientists in the coming year. The primary qualifications we seek are excellence in research and/or technical ability to further the missions of the Institute, particularly with regard to the James Webb Space Telescope (JWST). Appointments can be made to either the tenure-track or the scientist-track, and at any level. Tenure-track astronomers spend 50% of their time in support of the science operations mission of the Institute and 50% of their time on personal research. Scientist-track astronomers spend up to 80% of their time in support of the science operations mission of the Institute with the remaining time used for independent astronomical research or supporting innovative projects. Tenure-track positions are recommended for those scientists wishing to pursue a strong, personal research program, while scientist-track positions may be preferred by scientists wishing to focus on mission-oriented or technology development projects.

Applications are encouraged from both junior and senior astronomers. Our professional environment is stimulating and facilitates independent research and scientific collaboration world-wide. STScI supports postdoctoral, graduate student and visitor programs, workshops and meetings, and has an excellent computer, technical, and library infrastructure

The scientific staff help formulate the strategic goals of the Institute. They work in key areas including instrument, archive, and user support, observation planning and scheduling, and education and public outreach. In particular, STScI is the science operations center for the Hubble Space Telescope (HST) and will perform the same role for the JWST. Institute scientists are closely involved in the design and planning of JWST instruments and operations, in addition to collaborating with the community on concept and design studies for future NASA missions. The science staff also support calibration of the current suite of HST instruments and provide assistance to HST users in executing their research programs with the telescope

Candidates for these positions must have a Ph.D. or equivalent degree in astronomy, physics, or planetary science, and have postdoctoral experience demonstrating a record of independent research or technical innovation. Salaries and benefits are commensurate with those of AURA member universities. STScI is committed to equal opportunity, and women and minorities are strongly encouraged to apply.

Application consists of submitting together: a cover letter, your curriculum vitae and bibliography, a summary on how your research and functional interests would contribute to STScI’s mission, and the names of three individuals who will write letters of reference on your behalf. The Announcement of Opportunity, which includes detailed program policies as well as instructions both for the applicants and for their referees, will be available at the web site: https://fellows.stsci.edu/Apptool/Rsr_09/application.php Applicants and referees must follow the instructions for uploading their materials using the STScI web interface as described in that Announcement. Applications received by Tuesday, December 1, 2009 will receive full consideration.

The Space Telescope Science Institute is operated by the Association of Universities for Research in Astronomy, and is an affirmative action, equal opportunity employer. Women and members of minority groups are strongly encouraged to apply. EOE/AA/M/F/D/V.

Updated 011/11/2009