Senior Observational Astrophysicist - Telescope & Data Lead

Placements24; Riverton (UT); On-site; USD 73,000 - 122,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Relocation assistance

Travel to conferences

Access to facilities

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking a Senior Astrophysicist specialized in Observational Astronomy to join a renowned astronomical research institution in Upington. The role requires on-site leadership in utilizing advanced facilities and guiding data-driven explorations of the universe.

You will lead observational campaigns, develop data pipelines, and publish results while mentoring junior researchers. A strong theoretical background and extensive telescope experience are essential.

Qualifications

• PhD in Astronomy or related field is required.
• 8+ years of postdoctoral research in observational astronomy.
• Experience with IRAF, CASA, and Python (Astropy) for data analysis.
• Strong background in operating major ground-based telescopes.
• Solid theoretical foundation in astrophysics and clear scientific writing.

Responsibilities

• Conduct original observational research in cosmology, galaxy evolution, or stellar physics.
• Plan and execute observations with optical and radio facilities.
• Develop data reduction pipelines and analysis techniques.
• Collaborate with instrument scientists on new technologies.
• Publish in peer-reviewed journals and present at conferences.
• Mentor junior researchers and contribute to outreach activities.

Skills

Data analysis (IRAF/CASA/Python)

Observational astronomy

Telescope operation

Scientific communication

Ground-based data handling

Education

PhD in Astronomy/Astrophysics

Tools

IRAF

CASA

Python (Astropy)

Job description

Placements24 is seeking a Senior Astrophysicist specialized in Observational Astronomy to join a renowned astronomical research institution in Upington. The role requires on-site leadership in utilizing advanced facilities and guiding data-driven explorations of the universe.

You will lead observational campaigns, develop data pipelines, and publish results while mentoring junior researchers. A strong theoretical background and extensive telescope experience are essential.