Astrophysics Institute Visiting Scientist

Astrophysics Institute Visiting Scientist [High Contrast Imaging Specialist]Join to apply for the Astrophysics Institute Visiting Scientist [High Contrast Imaging Specialist] role at Schmidt SciencesContinue with Google Continue with GoogleAstrophysics Institute Visiting Scientist [High Contrast Imaging Specialist]3 days ago Be among the first 25 applicantsJoin to apply for the Astrophysics Institute Visiting Scientist [High Contrast Imaging Specialist] role at Schmidt SciencesGet AI-powered advice on this job and more exclusive features.Schmidt Sciences is a nonprofit organization founded in 2024 by Eric and Wendy Schmidt that works to accelerate scientific knowledge and breakthroughs with the most promising, advanced tools to support a thriving planet. The organization prioritizes research in areas poised for impact including AI and advanced computing, astrophysics, biosciences, climate, and space—as well as supporting researchers in a variety of disciplines through its science systems program.The Astrophysics Institute at Schmidt Sciences invites applications for a 12–24 month Visiting Scientist position focused on high-contrast imaging instrumentation, such as coronagraphy and starlight suppression systems, for astronomical applications. This role is designed for experts in coronagraph design, fabrication, integration, and testing with a deep understanding of wavefront control techniques and optical systems . Visiting Scientists will divide their time across a portfolio of projects, working closely with internal staff and external grantee teams to support the development and deployment of ground- and space-based observatory and instrument concepts . Both postdoctoral fellows (Visiting Scientist) and senior staff on sabbatical (Distinguished Visiting Scientist) will be considered for this position.The RoleReporting to the Director of the Astrophysics Institute at Schmidt Sciences (hereafter “the Institute”), the Visiting Scientist will join a growing team to contribute to existing astrophysics programs and explore the creation and management of new hardware and facilities for the scientific community.ResponsibilitiesThe specific responsibilities of the role would be developed jointly by the individual and their manager and may change from time to time, but will include the following key elements:Coronagraph Specialist (Approx. 80% time)Serve as the Institute’s principal authority on coronagraph systems for high-contrast imaging in astronomyLead end-to-end coronagraph development initiatives, including concept generation, optical design, error budgeting, laboratory testbed validation, integration, and commissioningDirect and oversee implementation of coronagraph technologies within ground- and space-based telescope systems, engaging with both internal teams and external partnersEvaluate and advise on facility and instrumentation design reviews, ensuring coronagraph performance meets science objectives and wavefront stability requirementsProvide technical leadership and structured guidance to Institute team members on high-contrast imaging methodologiesShape strategic priorities for coronagraphy and wavefront control research and development within the Institute’s technology programsAstrophysics Research (Approx. 20% time)Independently conduct scientific investigations aligned with observatory capabilities and the Institute’s research goalsDisseminate research findings through presentations and/or publications in the broader scientific community, consistent with professional standardsRequired QualificationsA Ph.D. degree or equivalent from an accredited university in Astronomy & Astrophysics, Optical Engineering, or a closely related fieldAt least 2 years of postdoctoral or equivalent professional experience in academia, industry, government, or private laboratoriesDemonstrated hands-on expertise in the design, modeling, and validation of coronagraph systemsAdvanced knowledge of wavefront sensing and control technologies (e.g., deformable mirrors, electric field conjugation)Documented record of significant technical contributions and/or leadership in coronagraph development projectsProven ability to operate autonomously and make informed decisions while working with interdisciplinary teamsWillingness to be based at one of the Schmidt Sciences offices (Maryland, Arizona, or New York) and to travel domestically and internationally as requiredDesired QualificationsExperience directing the integration of coronagraphs into operational astronomical observatoriesProficiency in using optical simulation software (e.g., Zemax, POPPY, FRED) and applying systems engineering principlesBackground in managing large-scale instrumentation programs involving high-contrast imaging testbeds or flight systems$155,000 - $185,000 a yearThis role requires access to U.S. export controlled information. Candidates must be a U.S. person (i.e. a citizen of the United States, a permanent resident, or a legal asylee or refugee) OR receive approval from the U.S. Government to work with U.S. export controlled information.This is an exempt role.Seniority levelSeniority levelMid-Senior levelEmployment typeEmployment typeFull-timeJob functionJob functionResearch, Analyst, and Information TechnologyIndustriesNon-profit OrganizationsReferrals increase your chances of interviewing at Schmidt Sciences by 2xSign in to set job alerts for “Visiting Scientist” roles.Assistant Professor/Associate Professor/Full ProfessorAssistant Professor - Interventional RadiologyWe’re unlocking community knowledge in a new way. Experts add insights directly into each article, started with the help of AI. #J-18808-Ljbffr