This is the position of Astrophysicist in the High Energy Astrophysics Division of the Smithsonian Astrophysical Observatory.  Working under the direction of a senior astrophysicist on space instrument programs for solar and heliospheric research, the employee participates in the operation of active space missions and data centers, and directs the development of new algorithms for the data processing and calibration of instruments for use in space.        

Duties

Participate in the design, development, and operation of space instruments for detecting and measuring thermal plasma and energetic particles. Take part in analyzing experimental data and interpreting experimental results. Participate in laboratory experiments, simulations, and studies to evaluate the design, performance, and calibration of heliophysics instruments. Develop and write test procedures, test reports, and memoranda for dissemination throughout the instrument teams in order to ensure adequate documentation of the testing process. Assist in maintaining data processing pipelines and high-level local archives of in situ data products from ongoing heliophysics missions. Formulate and conduct independent research on the dynamics of the solar corona, the solar wind and energetic particle processes using both archival and proprietary data from space- and ground-based observations. Develop hypotheses, determine the most fruitful investigations, formulate research plans and observations, and analyze and interpret data. Prepare papers presenting research results for publication in scientific journals and presentation at conferences. Participate in scientific meetings and conferences to discuss current research with other scientists.  Perform other related duties as assigned. In addition to the above duties at the grade 13 may include, but are not limited to:

Requirements

• May be required to serve a one-year probationary period.
• Pre- and post-appointment background investigation.
• Direct Deposit/Elect Funds Transfer required for salary payment.
• First consideration may be made 14 days after the opening date.

Qualifications

Basic Requirements: A)Degree in one of a combination of astronomy, physics, mathematics, space science or electronics, including course work in differential and integral calculus and 12 semester hours in astronomy or physics; ORB)A combination of education and experience equivalent to A above including at least 30 semester hours of courses equivalent to a major in any combination of astronomy, space science, physics, mathematics, and electronics with required course work as shown in A above. In addition to meeting the basic entry qualification requirements, applicants must have specialized experience and/or directly related education in the amounts shown below: Grade 12 A. Ph.D. degree or equivalent doctoral degree or B. A minimum of one year of specialized experience equivalent to at least grade 11 in the normal line of progression for this occupation.  This experience includes producing publications and experience conducting independent research programs in an academic or research environment; knowledge of scientific computing for astrophysical data analysis and application of analytic techniques in a research or similar environment.      or  C. A combination of successfully completed graduate level education and experience equivalent to the above Grade 13: A minimum of one year of specialized experience equivalent to at least the grade 12 in the normal line of progression for this occupation.  This experience includes producing publications, obtaining research funding, and conducting independent research programs in an academic or research environment that have answered important questions in the field. It also includes mastery of scientific computing, software development for astrophysical data analysis, and/or application of advanced analytic techniques in a research or similar environment. Grade 14: A minimum of one year of specialized experience equivalent to at least grade 13 in the normal line of progression for this occupation.  This includes experience identifying and leading major new scientific development initiatives. It also includes participating in research planning activities significant to the broader scientific community, including advisory committees, scientific workshops, conferences, etc. Experience supervising scientific, technical, and/or administrative staff is strongly desirable at this level. Qualification requirements are derived from the Office of Personnel Management's Qualification Standards Handbook for General Schedule Positions viewable on the web at http://www.opm.gov/qualifications/Standards/IORs/gs1300/1330.htm. 

Contacts

• Address SMITHSONIAN Human Resources 60 Garden Street, MS 17 Cambridge, Massachusetts 02138 United States
• Name: Mary Hebert
• Phone: 617-496-7816
• Email: [email protected]