Job description
Join Lumen Nebula Institute, a premier astronomy research organization based in Tucson, Arizona. We are seeking a highly motivated Astronomy Research Scientist to advance observational data analysis, instrument software, and scientific discovery. This role offers the opportunity to work with world-class telescopes, collaborate with cross-disciplinary teams, and contribute to high-impact publications.
As a member of our science group, you will develop data pipelines, analyze imaging and spectroscopic data, and help shape the next generation of astronomical instrumentation.
Responsibility
- Lead end-to-end analysis of large astronomical datasets from ground- and space-based facilities.
- Develop, test, and maintain data pipelines and processing software for imaging, spectroscopy, and time-domain data.
- Implement advanced algorithms for astrometry, photometry, source extraction, and calibration.
- Collaborate with instrument and software teams to integrate pipelines with telescope control and data archives.
- Prepare and publish results in peer-reviewed journals; present at conferences.
- Mentor graduate students and junior staff; contribute to grant proposals and reporting.
- Document code and workflows to ensure reproducibility and long-term maintainability.
Qualification
- PhD in Astronomy, Astrophysics, Physics, or a closely related field; or MS with equivalent research experience.
- Proficiency in Python (AstroPy, NumPy, SciPy), data analysis, and visualization; experience with SQL and Bash.
- Experience working with FITS, spectral data formats, and astronomical data standards (VO, WCS).
- Strong software development practices; experience with version control, testing, and HPC/cloud computing.
- Excellent communication skills and ability to work in interdisciplinary teams.
- Demonstrated track record of research through publications; ability to manage multiple projects.
- U.S. work authorization and willingness to relocate to Tucson, Arizona.