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European Astronomical Society
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| Operations Scientist | Closing date: 2023-09-12
Contact: Heather |
An ideal role for a radio astronomer with Observatory experience who is keen to contribute to the operational planning and commissioning of the SKAO and become involved in the science operations of the SKA precursor, MeerKAT.
Apply here: https://recruitment.skao.int/vacancy/operations-scientist-532326.html | | ▸ more | The Role
The SKAO Operations group is seeking to employ up to four talented and motivated Operations Scientists to join the SKA-Mid team based at the Science Operations Centre in Cape Town, South Africa. With the SKA now in construction, planning for the operations of the SKA has entered an exciting phase. In order to support our planning, we are looking for individuals with broad operational and scientific experience within the full range of activities required to run a successful radio observatory. This includes knowledge of the telescope systems, data processing and analysis, as well as experience serving a diverse and distributed user community.
The Operations Scientists will draw on their experience, expertise within their established networks and the broader astronomical community to inform the detailed SKAO operational plan and policies. They will also be required to support the planning and execution of scientific commissioning and verification for the SKA Observatory. Good organisational, communication and collaborative skills are required for this role. In addition, under a joint agreement between the SKAO and SARAO, the SKA-Mid Science Operations team will work jointly with the SARAO MeerKAT operations team to support MeerKAT science operations and commissioning of the MeerKAT extension, until the MeerKAT telescope is integrated into the SKA. This provides an opportunity to gain additional experience in an active observatory environment.
The roles are offered on a full time, permanent basis and the Operations Scientists will periodically need to work outside of normal office hours when fulfilling the Astronomer on Duty support role.
SKAO is committed to providing an inclusive and flexible working environment, meeting the requests of our Colleagues
whilst also fulfilling the needs and objectives of the Observatory.
We encourage applications from under-represented groups such as women and individuals with disabilities, as well as
open conversations during the recruitment process in relation to any specific requirements.
There may be occasions where this role requires the post holder to work across different time zones and, in line with
SKAO policy, flexible working hours will be supported in agreement with the line manager.
Key Responsibilities, Accountabilities and Duties
Under the direction of the SKA-Mid Head of Science Operations, the successful candidate will support the future science operations of the SKA Observatory by:
-Supporting the development and continual refinement of the science operational model for the SKA telescopes.
-Ensuring consistency between the SKA System Level requirements with those needed for the successful future operation of the SKA telescopes.
-Contributing to commissioning and science verification of MeerKAT Extension and SKA-Mid Telescope, including the development of plans, requirements for early array releases and test procedures.
-Supporting the development of software needed to operate the SKA Telescopes or necessary for the SKA user community.
-Effectively collaborating with SKAO staff across the three sites. Occasional travel to the SKAO telescope sites in Australia and/or South Africa will be necessary (typically once a year for up to 2 weeks).
-Supporting MeerKAT science operations by serving as Astronomer on Duty on a roster basis, conducting feasibility reviews and providing user support as needed.
-Optionally undertaking a programme of personal research up to 25% of employed hours.
-Undertaking other duties as directed by the SKA-Mid Head of Science Operations.
Mandatory Knowledge, Skills and Experience
-University PhD degree in Astronomy, Physics, Engineering or another closely related and relevant field, or equivalent experience.
-Expertise in radio astronomy techniques including in the acquisition, reduction and analysis of astronomical data.
-Experience with the operation of astronomical observatories.
-Experience working with a diverse and globally distributed telescope user community and providing appropriate user support.
-Effective oral and written communication skills in English.
-Flexibility and adaptability to change.
Desirable Knowledge, Skills and Experience
-Experience commissioning radio astronomy instrumentation (or similar).
-Experience working in large collaborative projects.
-Experience understanding and articulating the needs of a user (e.g. radio astronomer) to inform the development of requirements (e.g. through a series of use cases) and/or operational policies.
-Ability to work effectively with engineers and scientists from a variety of cultures and influence people in widely differing parts of a complex organisation.
-Awareness of equitable practices, including accessibility, to facilitate the broadest possible access to the Observatory from the scientific user community.
Equality Diversity and Inclusion Statement
SKA Observatory recognises that our diversity is a strength. We aim to create a welcoming and inclusive environment where everyone feels they belong, and diverse perspectives and ideas thrive. As such, Equality, Diversity, and Inclusion are at the core of SKA Observatory?s agenda.
Our aim is to recruit and retain the most talented individuals, regardless of gender, race, disability, age, sexual orientation, marital status, religion, nationality or background.
Women have traditionally been under-represented in the fields of science and engineering; SKA Observatory welcomes and encourages female applicants.
Where applicants with a disability need facilities or adjustments to enable them to participate in the recruitment process, these will be provided.
SKA Observatory welcome all candidates, especially those from member countries.
The ?How to Apply? information contained within the SKA Observatory recruitment portal provides more detail regarding our application and selection approach.
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