Posting 24-30

AREA OF CONSIDERATION:  This position is open to all qualified applicants. 

INTRODUCTION
The Smithsonian Astrophysical Observatory (SAO) is at the forefront, internationally, of the scientific exploration of the universe. SAO combines its resources with those of the Harvard College Observatory to form the Harvard-Smithsonian Center for Astrophysics (CfA). The CfA is the best-known astrophysics center in the world. Its programs range from ground-based astronomy and astrophysics research to space-based research, the engineering and development of major scientific instrumentation for space launch and use in large ground-based facilities, and research designed to improve science education. The research objectives of SAO are carried out primarily with the support of Government and Smithsonian Institution funds, with additional philanthropic support.  Government funds are in the form of Federal appropriations or the form of contracts and grants from other agencies. In contrast, Institution funds are available to SAO through grants from the Institution's Restricted Funds, Special Purpose Funds, Bureau Activities, Business Activities, and non-Federal contracts and grants. 

SUMMARY
This is the position of Atmospheric Physicist in the Atomic and Molecular Physics Division of the Smithsonian Astrophysical Observatory. The employee will perform research on atmospheric composition measurements, including those from Earth satellites, airborne-, and ground-based instruments. The employee will be part of a research group working to design, implement, and improve software for atmospheric measurements and to perform scientific research using such measurements. The software will include programs to analyze calibration testing data, advanced algorithms to convert from raw data to wavelength and radiometrically calibrated radiance spectra and perform retrievals of trace gases, aerosols and surface parameters from UV/visible/near infrared spectra obtained by TEMPO and future similar instruments. Research includes analysis of instrument calibration data from prelaunch or on orbit to derive and improve calibration key data, development and improvement of L0-1b processor to derive accurately calibrated radiance spectra, supporting data processing, monitoring of instrument performance, and performing and supporting retrievals of atmospheric trace gases, aerosols, and surface parameters from TEMPO, other satellite and airborne instruments.

Responsibilities

• Development and improvement of L0-1 processor to convert raw data to radiometrically and wavelength calibrated and geo-located radiance spectra for TEMPO and future similar instruments.
• Analysis of instrument calibration data from prelaunch or on orbit to derive/improve calibration key data and radiometric correction for improving the L0-1 processor, and monitoring of instrument performance for TEMPO. 
• Perform and support retrievals of atmospheric trace gases, aerosols, and surface parameters from TEMPO and other satellite and airborne instruments. 
• Perform scientific studies involving atmospheric and surface measurements, global/regional atmospheric modeling, radiative transfer, tropospheric chemistry, and spectroscopy. 
• Prepare refereed publications and present talks at professional meetings. 
• Perform other duties as may be required.

QUALIFICATIONS: 

Basic Requirements
A) Degree in physics; or related degree that included at least 24 semester hours in physics; or B) Combination of education and experience -- courses equivalent to a major in physics totaling at least 24 semester hours, plus appropriate experience or additional education.

 

In either A or B above, the courses must have included a fundamental course in general physics and, in addition, courses in any two of the following: electricity and magnetism, heat, light, mechanics, modern physics, and sound.

Additional Requirements
Candidates must possess at least one year of specialized experience equivalent to at least the GS-11 level.  Specialized experience is experience that has provided the knowledge, skills and abilities to successfully perform the work of the position such as analyzing instrument calibration data from prelaunch or on orbit and improving the L0-1 processor for satellite UV/visible spectrometer like TEMPO; or a Ph. D or equivalent doctoral degree; or an equivalent of education and experience.

 

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities (Required)

• Knowledge of Python, C, Fortran, MATLAB, Linux and Shell scripting.
• Knowledge of scientific software development.
• Knowledge of the principles and practices in the field of atmospheric science or related filed.
• Knowledge of mathematics and physics of satellite, airborne and ground-based remote sensing observations
• Skill in developing new software and modifying existing programs.
• Ability to present findings in a publishable format.
• Skill in oral and written communication as evidenced by refereed journal publications in
• Atmospheric measurements and their applications.

Applicants, who wish to qualify based on education completed outside the United States, must be deemed equivalent to higher education programs of U.S. Institutions by an organization that specializes in the interpretation of foreign educational credentials. This documentation is the responsibility of the applicant and should be included as part of your application package.

Any false statement in your application may result in your application being rejected and may also result in termination after employment begins.

The Smithsonian Institution values and seeks a diverse workforce. Join us in "Inspiring Generations through Knowledge and Discovery."

 
Resume/CV should include a description of your paid and non-paid work experience that is related to this job; starting and ending dates of job (month and year); and average number of hours worked per week. College Transcript should be provided if using education for qualification.  

What To Expect Next: Once the vacancy announcement closes, a review of your resume will be compared against the qualification and experience requirements related to this job. After review of applicant resumes is complete, qualified candidates will be referred to the hiring manager.

About Smithsonian Astrophysical Observatory

The Smithsonian Astrophysical Observatory is joined by Harvard College Observatory to form the Center for Astrophysics | Harvard & Smithsonian.  The Center is a collaboration between Harvard and Smithsonian designed to ask — and ultimately answer — humanity’s greatest unresolved questions about the nature of the universe.   Founded in 1973, the Center for Astrophysics | Harvard & Smithsonian is an ongoing collaboration designed to foster innovation and propel discovery.  Our mission is to advance knowledge of the Universe through research in astronomy and astrophysics and in related areas of fundamental physics and geophysics.

At the CfA, scientists in a broad range of disciplines study the universe at every scale, from every wavelength, and using telescopes and instruments that span and orbit the globe, all with a single purpose: making groundbreaking discoveries that advance human knowledge.

How to Apply:  Please use the following link to visit Smithsonian's Career Page:  Smithsonian Institution Job Opportunities Site

The Smithsonian Institution provides reasonable accommodation to applicants with disabilities where appropriate. Applicants requiring reasonable accommodation should contact the Human Resources Specialist listed. Determinations on requests for reasonable accommodation will be made on a case-by-case basis.

Conditions of Employment

• Pass Pre-employment Background Check and Subsequent Background Investigation, as required.
• Complete a Probationary Period if applicable. 
• Maintain a Bank Account for Direct Deposit/Electronic Transfer.
• The position is open to all candidates eligible to work in the United States.  Proof of eligibility to work in U.S. is not required to apply.
• Applicants must meet all qualification and eligibility requirements within 30 days of the closing date of this announcement. 

Commitment to Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion
The Smithsonian Institution provides reasonable accommodation to applicants with disabilities where appropriate. Applicants requiring reasonable accommodation should contact the Human Resources Specialist listed. Determinations on requests for reasonable accommodation will be made on a case-by-case basis.  To learn more, please review the Smithsonian’s Accommodation Procedures.

The Smithsonian Institution is an Equal Opportunity Employer. We believe that a workforce comprising a variety of educational, cultural, and experiential backgrounds support and enhance our daily work life and contribute to the richness of our exhibitions and programs. See Smithsonian EEO program information: www.si.edu/oeema.

The Smithsonian Astrophysical Observatory is an equal opportunity employer committed to diversity in our workplace. Please visit the SAO website at http://www.cfa.harvard.edu/