TITLE: Astrophysicist, GS-1330, Grade 13; $87,548 to $113,815/yr
TYPE OF POSITION: Federal Term – Four Years (Three Positions)
DIVISION: - Smithsonian Astrophysical Observatory Wide
LOCATION: 60 Garden Street, Cambridge, Massachusetts
AREA OF CONSIDERATION: All US Citizens

DUTIES: The incumbent will conduct excellent scientific research or technical innovation which will advance the strategic plans of the observatory and the Smithsonian Institution (SI). The research should be initiated by the incumbent and should be of high quality. It may be carried out in any division of the observatory, and may be done in concert with observatory projects, facilities and laboratories, and in collaboration with other observatory scientists. The research should result in presentation at scientific or technical meetings and conferences, and in publication in recognized scientific and technical journals.

SAO Strategic Plan - http://www.cfa.harvard.edu/ssci/sspJan_2007.pdf
SI Strategic Plan - http://www.si.edu/about/documents/SI_Strategic_Plan_2010-2015.pdf

QUALIFICATIONS : Minimum Education Requirements: These positions require a doctoral degree in astronomy, physics, mathematics, space science, electronics, or related fields, or an equivalent combination of education and experience. Candidates must possess one year of specialized experience at least equivalent to the grade 12 level, corresponding to at least one year of related research experience beyond the doctoral degree. These positions require broad advanced knowledge of physics and astronomy and a demonstrated ability to conduct independent research, as evidenced by a doctoral degree as described above, and by research accomplishments and publications. Specialized experience for these positions would typically consist of the ability to identify and determine independently the most fruitful areas of investigation and skill in preparing scientific results for publication.

HOW YOU WILL BE EVALUATED: Each applicant must submit a CV, bibliography and three-page research plan which will advance the strategic plans of the observatory and the Smithsonian Institution, referenced above. The information you provide will be evaluated to determine whether you meet the specialized experience requirement and are therefore qualified for this position. It is to your benefit to fully describe your experience and education/training relative to the job requirements of this vacancy. Your application may not receive proper consideration if you do not provide adequate information. Candidates who meet the basic qualification requirements will be further evaluated by members of the Federal Scientist Appointments Committee. This evaluation will consider the applicant’s research proposal, based on the strategic plans of SI and SAO, his/her record of scientific research and publications, and his/her letters of recommendation.

KEY REQUIREMENTS: New employees are subject to background checks, including fingerprinting, and one year probationary periods.

APPLICATION PROCEDURE: We will only accept applications on line for these positions. To apply please visit: https://www.cfa.harvard.edu/pcgi/jobs/application.pl?fid=20. As part of the online application you will be required to submit a CV, bibliography and a three page research plan which will advance the strategic plans of the observatory and the Smithsonian Institution, referenced above. SAO will automatically request reference letters from references once applicants have filled in the reference email addresses in the on-line application. A photocopy of the doctoral certificate is also required. You will be informed of the receipt and of the status of your application.

NOTE: A recruitment bonus may be paid. Relocation costs will not be paid. SAO provides reasonable accommodations to applicants with disabilities. If you need a reasonable accommodation for any part of the application and hiring process, please notify us. The decision on granting reasonable accommodation will be made on a case-by-case basis.

The Smithsonian Astrophysical Observatory is an equal opportunity employer committed to diversity in our workplace.

For further information, please contact
Email: pcapone@cfa.harvard.edu
Pat Capone 617-496-7862
Smithsonian Astrophysical Observatory
60 Garden Street, Cambridge, MA 02138