Kepler Data Scientist
Position Description:
The SETI Institute is seeking a scientist to analyze data from the Kepler mission as it continues its quest to locate the first Earth-sized exoplanets residing within the habitable zones of nearby stars. The successful applicant will be a member of the Kepler Science Office, located at the NASA-Ames Research Center, and will be an integral part of the Kepler Team that shares proprietary ownership of the data and its scientific exploitation. This Support Scientist will develop critical algorithms for maximizing the detection sensitivity of Kepler; assist in the incorporation of these algorithms into the Kepler processing pipeline; work to optimize the performance of the pipeline; and monitor the resulting data products.
Candidates should possess a background in the analysis of science data, experience in developing and implementing software to process and reduce science data, and the enthusiasm required to work effectively within a dynamic team of scientists and engineers.
Kepler is a NASA Discovery mission designed to detect and characterize habitable, earth-like planets orbiting sun-like stars. The spacecraft has been acquiring data since May, 2009 and is expected to operate at least through September, 2012. For more information about the Kepler mission, see http://www.nasa.gov/kepler . The successful candidate will be expected and encouraged to devote 20% of their time to astronomical research of interest to Kepler, actively collaborating with other Science Office and Science Team members, as appropriate.
Education / Requirements:
A Ph.D. or equivalent career experience in astronomy, physics, or a related field is required.
Qualifications/ Required skills:
Candidates must have a minimum of two years experience in exoplanet research. Excellent oral and written communication skills are important. The
ideal candidate is especially attentive to details, pro-active, and available. Initiative to work both independently and as a team player, are
important to overall success.
Experience with MATLAB is required, familiarity with the FITS standard and Oracle databases is recommended.
Example of Job Tasks
- Analyze data from the Kepler Photometer
- Formulate analytical models to describe performance-limiting factors within the photometer data
- Develop numerical methods for maximizing detector efficiency
- Prototype data calibrations and corrections
- Serve as Kepler Duty Scientist on a rotating basis
- Document analysis, prototype software, and experimental results
- Prepare and present results at workshops and conferences
Special Requirements:
- Some evening and weekend commitments
- Ability to work in a fast-paced environment with high expectations for managing the unexpected
within a designated timeframe - Willingness to accept major responsibilities and to perform under pressure
- Well-developed interpersonal and diplomacy skills
On-Going Expectations:
-
Personal commitment to achieving a high level of performance
The mission of the SETI Institute is to explore, understand and explain
the origin, nature and prevalence of life in the universe. We believe
we are conducting the most profound search in human history – to
discover our beginnings and our place among the stars. The SETI
Institute is a private, nonprofit organization dedicated to scientific
research, education, and public outreach. Founded in 1984, the
Institute today employs over 140 scientists, educators and support
staff. The SETI Institute is an Equal Opportunity Employer.
For consideration, apply online:
Open until filled.
Important Fax Applicants:
Fax to: 650-961-7099
(Attention Human Resources/Postdoctoral Associate)
To apply by mail, send your CV and cover letter to:
SETI Institute
Attention: Human Resources
515 N. Whisman Road
Mountain View, CA 94043
Open until filled.
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