Category Archives: PhD Postings

Canada Excellence Research Chair in Astronomical Instrumentation at Bishop’s University

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Tenured appointment at the rank of Full Professor, or Associate Professor with promotion to Full Professor within two years of starting the appointment

Date posted: 10 December 2025

Closing date for full consideration: 15 January 2026

About Bishop’s University

Bishop’s University is a historic, primarily undergraduate English-language university located in the city of Sherbrooke, Québec, on a 550-acre campus in the Eastern Townships. It offers students an intimate learning environment, with strong traditions of liberal education and close interaction between students and faculty.

Bishop’s University is situated on the traditional, ancestral, and unceded territory of the Abenaki people, who are members of the Wabanaki Confederacy.

The Department of Physics & Astronomy has long-standing strengths in astrophysics and relativity, including two current Canada Research Chairs, and identifies these areas as priorities in the University’s Strategic Research Plan. The Department offers a strong undergraduate program, as well as an MSc degree, with plans to launch a PhD program in Astrophysics. Faculty in the Department are involved in major international collaborations, including in the Laser Interferometer Space Antenna (LISA), the North American Nanohertz Observatory for Gravitational Waves (NANOGrav), the Vera Rubin Observatory, the Kepler telescope, the Pandora mission, the James Webb Space Telescope (JWST), and the Cosmological Advanced Survey Telescope for Optical and UV Research (CASTOR).

Bishop’s University also has close ties to the Observatoire du Mont-Mégantic (OMM) located in the nearby Mont-Mégantic International Dark Sky Reserve. Many instruments are designed and tested on the 1.6-metre telescope at OMM before being commissioned on major telescopes, such as the Gemini Planet Imager for the Gemini Observatories, the Fine Guidance Sensor and Near Infrared Imager and Slitless Spectrograph (FGS-NIRISS) on JWST, and the Near-Infrared Planet Searcher (NIRPS) for the 3.6 metre ESO telescope.

Canada Excellence Research Chairs (CERC) Program

The Canada Excellence Research Chairs (CERC) program is one of the Government of Canada’s most prestigious research chair programs. It supports universities in attracting and retaining world-renowned researchers by providing large, long-term awards to establish ambitious research programs and teams in areas of strategic importance for Canada’s future.

In the current competition, the CERC program offers the chairholder at Bishop’s $8 million ($1M annually) or $4 million ($0.5M annually) CAD over eight years, to support the chairholder’s research program, team, and associated infrastructure and partnership activities. Through a partnership between the CERC program and the Canada Foundation for Innovation (CFI), the chairholder will be eligible to apply for additional funds for research infrastructure.

For full information on eligibility and program details, applicants should consult the Canada Excellence Research Chairs website: https://www.cerc.gc.ca/home-accueil-eng.aspx

Position description

Bishop’s University invites applications for a Canada Excellence Research Chair (CERC) in Astronomical Instrumentation. The successful candidate will be an internationally recognized leader in the conception, design, development, and deployment of cutting-edge astrophysical instrumentation, broadly defined.

Areas of focus may include, but are not limited to:

  • Optical, UV, and infrared instrumentation (e.g., detectors, spectrographs, imagers, adaptive optics, astrophotonics)
  • Radio and sub-millimetre instrumentation, including digital backends and large-N interferometric arrays
  • High-energy and X-ray instrumentation
  • Time-domain and multi-messenger astronomy instrumentation (including gravitational-wave and neutrino observatories)
  • Space-based or sub-orbital platforms, cubesats, or balloon-borne experiments

    • Software infrastructure, instrument control, data acquisition, and real-time data processing systems (including applications of AI)

The specific research vision is intentionally broad: we seek a transformative instrumentation leader whose program will enable major advances in astrophysics and aligns with the objectives of the CERC program, including the generation of social and economic benefits for Canadians through innovation, training, partnerships, and knowledge mobilization. This CERC position aligns with federal Science, Technology, and Innovation Priorities, specifically “Technologically Advanced Canada”: https://www.cerc.gc.ca/program-programme/priority_areas-domaines_prioritaires-eng.aspx

The CERC chairholder will be expected to:

  • Establish an ambitious, internationally visible research program in astrophysical instrumentation
  • Build and lead a diverse research team of highly qualified personnel (HQP), including postdoctoral fellows, graduate students, and undergraduate researchers
  • Develop and sustain strong collaborations with Canadian and international observatories, space agencies, research institutes, and industry partners
  • Contribute to undergraduate and graduate teaching in Physics & Astronomy, with a reduced teaching load appropriate for a CERC-level research appointment, in accordance with the faculty collective agreement and program guidelines
  • Play a leading role in enhancing Bishop’s capacity in experimental and instrumental astrophysics, including mentoring of junior faculty and fostering cross-disciplinary collaborations (for example, with computer science, engineering partners, or data science groups)
  • Demonstrate leadership in equity, diversity, inclusion, decolonization, and accessibility in research, training, outreach, and team culture.

The position will be tenured at the rank of Associate Professor or Full Professor. Appointment at Bishop’s will be conditional upon the successful nomination of the selected candidate to the CERC program and the subsequent confirmation of the CERC award by the Tri-agency Institutional Program Secretariat.

Candidate profile and qualifications

Consistent with recent CERC competitions at Canadian universities, we anticipate that the successful nominee will:

  • Hold a PhD (or equivalent) in astronomy, physics, engineering, or a closely related discipline (required by Bishop’s University but not by the CERC program)
  • Be currently at the rank of Full Professor, or Associate Professor who would be promotable to Full Professor within two years of starting the appointment, or have equivalent senior-level research experience in a non-academic setting
  • Have an internationally recognized track record of excellence in astronomical instrumentation, including leadership roles in major projects or facilities (e.g., principal investigator, project scientist, instrument lead), and a strong record of peer-reviewed publications
  • Demonstrate a sustained ability to attract significant external research funding and to build large, collaborative, multi-institution teams
  • Show clear evidence of leadership in training and mentoring diverse groups of HQP, including graduate students and postdoctoral fellows
  • Demonstrate excellence in teaching and supervision at the undergraduate and/or graduate level
  • Demonstrate a strong and sustained commitment to EDI, reconciliation, and inclusive excellence in research, training, and recruitment, consistent with CERC program expectations

Proficiency in English is required, as Bishop’s is an English-language institution. Familiarity with French, or a willingness to learn French to function effectively in the Québec context, is considered a strong asset.

CERC eligibility and selection

This program provides an excellent opportunity for international researchers, including Canadian expatriates wishing to relocate to Canada, to be a leader in our world-class research program in Astrophysics.

The successful candidate will work closely with Bishop’s University to develop a full CERC nomination, which will be submitted to the Government of Canada’s Tri-agency Institutional Programs Secretariat in accordance with the competition timelines.

The CERC chairholder must normally take up the award within 12 months of formal acceptance of the CERC.

Equity, diversity, inclusion, and accessibility

Bishop’s University and the CERC program share a strong commitment to equity, diversity, inclusion, decolonization, and accessibility. Bishop’s welcomes applications from all qualified individuals, and especially encourages applications from members of groups that are under-represented in research chairs and in astrophysics, including women, Indigenous peoples, racialized persons, persons with disabilities, and 2SLGBTQIA+ persons. We are committed to fair and equitable assessment processes that take into account the impact of career interruptions (e.g., parental, medical, community or care work, pandemic or other global crises). Bishop’s implements an equal access employment program under Québec’s Act respecting equal access to employment in public bodies for women, visible and ethnic minorities, Indigenous peoples, and persons with disabilities. Bishop’s will provide accommodations during the recruitment process upon request.

Applicants who wish to self-identify as members of equity-seeking or systemically marginalized groups are invited to do so in their application materials. Any such information will be used to support institutional EDI objectives and reporting obligations and will be treated in accordance with applicable privacy legislation and CERC requirements.

Application package

Application packages should include the following items combined into a single PDF file:

Cover letter: Clearly identify the position title “Canada Excellence Research Chair in Astronomical Instrumentation”. Summarize your fit to the position, your major research contributions, and your vision for your CERC instrumentation program at Bishop’s. Briefly describe any career interruptions or special circumstances that you would like the committee to consider.

Curriculum Vitae: Include education, positions held, major awards and distinctions, research funding history, significant instrumentation projects, publications, invited talks, supervision and mentorship, and evidence of leadership.

Research and Instrumentation Vision (3 to 5 pages): An outline of an 8-year research and instrumentation program that you would pursue as a CERC chairholder at Bishop’s. Describe how your program will:

  • Transform its field scientifically
  • Strengthen and complement existing research strengths at Bishop’s and in Canada
  • Engage national and international partners (academic, governmental, industry, community)
  • Generate societal and/or economic benefits for Canadians, in line with CERC program goals
  • Training and EDI Strategy (max 1 page): Your philosophy and concrete plans for training a diverse cohort of HQP. Describe how you will embed EDI and reconciliation in recruitment, mentoring, team culture, and partnerships

Teaching and Mentoring Statement (max 2 pages): Your approach to teaching and supervising at the undergraduate and graduate levels. Provide examples of pedagogical innovation or mentoring practices, including for under-represented groups.

Names and contact information of 3 to 4 referees: Referees will be contacted only for candidates who are shortlisted; you may be asked later to arrange for letters that specifically address CERC criteria.

How to apply

Applications should be sent by email (single PDF attachment) to:
Valerio Faraoni
Interim Dean of Natural Sciences and Mathematics
Email: vfaraoni@UBishops.ca

Please use the subject line: “Application – CERC in Astronomical Instrumentation – [Your Name]”

Review of applications will begin on 16 January 2026, and will continue until the position is filled. To receive full consideration, complete applications should be received by that date.

Salary and start-up arrangements will be commensurate with the CERC award level, the candidate’s experience, and the provisions of the collective agreement with the Association of Professors of Bishop’s University (APBU) union.

Candidates who anticipate needing accommodation during any stage of the recruitment process are invited to contact Jacques Geleyn at Bishop’s University Human Resources (humanresources@ubishops.ca) in confidence.

Assistant Professor Job Posting – University of Victoria

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Faculty Position in Astronomy
Department of Physics and Astronomy, University of Victoria

The Department of Physics and Astronomy (https://www.uvic.ca/science/physics/index.php) at the University of Victoria invites applications for a tenure-track faculty position in Astronomy and Astrophysics at the rank of Assistant Professor. We welcome applications in all areas that complement and expand our existing research strengths, with particular interest in candidates whose research can leverage the outstanding research infrastructure and collaborative opportunities available through our institutional partnerships.

Salary Range:
The candidate’s qualifications, experience and overall market demand will determine a candidate’s final salary offer. The salary for this position includes a competitive salary range of $117,000 – $145,000. UVic is committed to offering an equitable and competitive salary, inclusive of a generous benefits package, eligible leaves and pension plan.

Resources and Facilities:
The Department of Physics and Astronomy offers an exceptional research environment for astronomy through the Astronomy Research Centre (ARC), which unites our 6-member astronomy faculty at UVic with 21 adjunct faculty from the National Research Council’s Herzberg Astronomy and Astrophysics Research Centre and TRIUMF’s nuclear astrophysics program. This partnership provides unparalleled access to cutting-edge facilities, including the Canadian SKA Regional Centre (canSRC – the only SKA data centre in the Americas), world-class computational resources and the CADC, advanced instrumentation laboratories, and nuclear astrophysics infrastructure. In addition, the successful candidate will have access to Canada’s international partner facilities, such as JWST, HST, Gemini Observatories, ALMA, JCMT, and CFHT. Our 30+ graduate students benefit from this rich collaborative environment. UVic faculty within the astronomy group maintain leading research programs in cosmology, extra-galactic and galactic astronomy, and stellar physics.

Requirements:
The successful candidate will be an early career researcher who has demonstrated scientific excellence at the national and international levels. The appointee is expected to establish an independent, high-impact and externally-funded research program. The appointee will be required to participate in teaching and developing courses at both the graduate and undergraduate levels, and in the mentoring of undergraduate and graduate students. The successful applicant will join and be expected to participate in a Department that integrates a diverse group of employees.

To be considered, please submit a complete application package including:

  • a cover letter that addresses the full scope of the job requirements
  • a curriculum vitae, including a list of publications/li>
  • a concise research proposal (e.g. 2-3 pages)/li>
  • a concise statement of teaching philosophy and experience (e.g. 1-2 pages)/li>
  • a concise statement regarding equity, diversity and inclusiveness on your priorities on teaching and research (e.g. 1-2 pages)/li>
  • confidential reference letters sent by three referees/li>

Materials should be submitted to Academic Jobs Online (https://academicjobsonline.org/ajo). You are asked to upload your C.V. and other personal information to this service, which is provided for the convenience of you and your referees. The service stores data on servers located outside of Canada; the data is therefore not in the custody or under the control of the University of Victoria. You may wish to review the privacy statement on Academic Jobs Online (https://academicjobsonline.org/ajo). If you do not wish to use this service, please email Anna Harama, Assistant to the Chair, at aharama@uvic.ca for application instructions.

Questions about the position are welcome and can be addressed to the Chair of Physics & Astronomy, Dr. Byoung Choi (phastchair@uvic.ca).

Review of applications will begin on February 1, 2026.

Please note that reference checks will be done and background checks, including credential and degree verification, may be undertaken as part of this recruitment process.

University of Victoria:
The University of Victoria Campus is located on the traditional lands of the Coast Salish Peoples. We acknowledge and respect the Lək̓ʷəŋən (Songhees and Xʷsepsəm/Esquimalt) Peoples on whose territory the university stands, and the Lək̓ʷəŋən and W̱SÁNEĆ Peoples whose historical relationships with the land continue to this day. We are privileged to do our work in a way that is inspired and influenced by their history, customs, and culture and are committed to the ongoing work of decolonizing and indigenizing the campus community.

UVic is committed to upholding the values of equity, diversity, inclusion and human rights in our living, learning and work environments. In pursuit of our values, we seek members who are eager to actively participate in that shared responsibility. We actively encourage applications from members of historically and systemically marginalized groups. Read our full equity statement (https://www.uvic.ca/equity/employment-equity/statement/).

The University acknowledges the potential impact that career interruptions can have on a candidate’s record of research achievement. We encourage applicants to explain in their application the impact that career interruptions have had on their record.

Persons with disabilities, who anticipate needing accommodation for any part of the application and hiring process, may contact Faculty Relations and Academic Administration in the Office of the VP Academic and Provost at FRrecruit@uvic.ca. Any personal information provided will be maintained in confidence.

Faculty and Librarians at the University of Victoria are governed by the provisions of the Collective Agreement. Members are represented by the University of Victoria Faculty Association.

All qualified candidates are encouraged to apply; if you are neither a Canadian citizen or permanent resident, please indicate if you are authorized to work in Canada, and be prepared to provide a copy of your permit authorizing the same.

Additional information can be found on the University of Victoria website: https://www.uvic.ca/faculty-staff/careers/faculty-and-librarian-postings/current/phys_270_156.php

Assistant Professor, Teaching Stream – Astronomy

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Closing Date: 01/13/2026, 11:59PM ET

Req ID: 45150

Job Category: Faculty – Teaching Stream (continuing)

Faculty/Division: University of Toronto Mississauga

Department: Department of Chemical and Physical Sciences

Campus: University of Toronto Mississauga (UTM)

Link here: https://jobs.utoronto.ca/job/Mississauga-Assistant-Professor%2C-Teaching-Stream-Astronomy-ON/597346917/

Description:

The Department of Chemical and Physical Sciences (CPS) at the University of Toronto, Mississauga invites applications for a full-time teaching stream position in Astronomy with a specialisation in Exoplanet Science. The appointment will be at the rank of Assistant Professor, Teaching Stream with an anticipated start date of July 1, 2026.

Applicants must have earned a PhD in Astrophysics or a closely related field by the time of appointment or shortly thereafter, with a demonstrated record of excellence in teaching. In addition, candidates must have demonstrated expertise in exoplanet science. We seek candidates whose teaching interests complement and enhance our existing departmental strengths. Candidates must have teaching expertise in a degree-granting program at the undergraduate level, including lecture preparation and delivery, curriculum development, development of online materials/lectures, and mentorship and supervision of undergraduate students’ research projects. A demonstrated keen interest in developing novel approaches for engaging undergraduates is required. Candidates must also demonstrate a commitment to effective pedagogical practices and teaching-related scholarly activities.

CPS is a multidisciplinary department with undergraduate programs in Astronomy, Chemistry, Physics, and Earth Sciences. We are looking for candidates able to build interdisciplinary connections between Astronomy and our Physics and Earth Science programs.

Evidence of excellence in teaching and a commitment to excellent pedagogical inquiry can be demonstrated through teaching accomplishments, awards and accolades, publications, presentations at significant conferences, the teaching dossier submitted as part of the application (with required materials outlined below) as well as strong letters of reference.

Salary will be commensurate with qualifications and experience.

At UTM, we are committed to fostering an environment of diversity and inclusion. With an enviable diverse student body, we especially welcome applications from candidates who identify as Indigenous, Black, or racially visible (persons of colour), and who have experience working with, teaching, or mentoring diverse groups or students. Candidates must demonstrate, in their application materials, an ability to foster diversity on campus and within the curriculum or discipline. They must show evidence of a commitment to equity, diversity, inclusion, and the promotion of a respectful and collegial environment. Candidates must submit a statement describing their contributions to equity, diversity, and inclusion, which might cover topics such as (but not limited to): teaching that incorporates a focus on underrepresented communities; efforts undertaken to develop inclusive pedagogies, collaboration, and engagement with underrepresented communities; and mentoring of students from under represented groups. If you have questions about this statement, please contact Joshua Milstein at cpschair.utm@utoronto.ca.

All qualified candidates are invited to apply online by clicking the above link. Applicants must submit a 1-2 page cover letter that highlights their: i) teaching accomplishments, experience, and undergraduate research supervision; ii) teaching vision; iii) research experience in Exoplanet Science; and iv) how they expect to complement our multi-disciplinary teaching strengths. In addition, a current CV, teaching dossier (that includes a teaching statement, sample syllabi and course materials, and teaching evaluations), and diversity statement (1-2 pages) must be submitted. The teaching dossier should highlight any significant teaching accomplishments such as awards, teaching grants secured, workshops led, presentations at conferences, publications in pedagogical journals or online resources, evidence of curricula/course development, and superlative course evaluations.

Applicants must provide the name and contact information of three references. The University of Toronto’s recruiting tool will automatically solicit and collect letters of reference from each referee within 48 hours after an application is submitted. Applicants remain responsible for ensuring that references submit recent letters (on letterhead, dated and signed) by the closing date. At least one reference letter must primarily address the candidate’s teaching. More details on the automatic reference letter collection, including timelines, are available in the candidate FAQ.

Submission guidelines can be found at https://uoft.me/how-to-apply. Your CV and cover letter should be uploaded into the dedicated fields. Please combine additional application materials into one or two files in PDF/MS Word format. If you have any questions about this position, please contact Alexandra Pastrik at cps.utm@utoronto.ca.

All application materials, including recent reference letters, must be received by Tuesday, January 13, 2026.

All qualified candidates are encouraged to apply; however, Canadians and permanent residents will be given priority.

Diversity Statement

The University of Toronto embraces Diversity and is building a culture of belonging that increases our capacity to effectively address and serve the interests of our global community. We strongly encourage applications from Indigenous Peoples, Black and racialized persons, women, persons with disabilities, and people of diverse sexual and gender identities. We value applicants who have demonstrated a commitment to equity, diversity and inclusion and recognize that diverse perspectives, experiences, and expertise are essential to strengthening our academic mission.

As part of your application, you will be asked to complete a brief Diversity Survey. This survey is voluntary. Any information directly related to you is confidential and cannot be accessed by search committees or human resources staff. Results will be aggregated for institutional planning purposes. For more information, please see https://uoft.me/UP.

Accessibility Statement

The University strives to be an equitable and inclusive community, and proactively seeks to increase diversity among its community members. Our values regarding equity and diversity are linked with our unwavering commitment to excellence in the pursuit of our academic mission. The University is committed to the principles of the Accessibility for Ontarians with Disabilities Act (AODA). As such, we strive to make our recruitment, assessment and selection processes as accessible as possible and provide accommodations as required for applicants with disabilities. If you require any accommodations at any point during the application and hiring process, please contact uoft.careers@utoronto.ca.

Post Doctoral Fellowship, Adaptive Optics Scientist

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Job Summary

  • Institution: National Research Council of Canada
  • Department: Herzberg Astronomy and Astrophysics Research Centre
  • Duration: 2 Years
  • Number of Positions Available: 1
  • Application deadline: Dec 19 2025
  • Work Arrangement: In-person
  • Location: Victoria

Compensation and Benefits

NRC employees enjoy a wide range of competitive benefits, including comprehensive health and dental plans, pension and insurance plans, vacation and other leave entitlements and paid parental leave.

We aim to fill these postdoctoral fellowships through NRC’s Research Associate Program which is an early-career category at NRC. The salary for this category ranges from $83,985 to $116,641 (CAD).

NOTE: Salary determination will be based on a review of the candidate’s expertise, outcomes, and impacts of their previous work experience relative to the requirements of the level.

Job Description

Project Title

Non-Linear Wavefront Sensing

The Program

The NRC’s Postdoctoral Fellowship program offers PDFs access to unique world-class facilities and the opportunity to work alongside multi-disciplinary teams of expert researchers and technicians on projects of critical importance to Canada. PDFs will carry out research on innovative research projects, with opportunities for career development (publications and/or industry interaction).

PDFs will be offered appointments to the staff of the National Research Council on a term basis and will be offered salaries and benefits currently available to Research Officers. Salaries commensurate with experience are taxable and subject to other deductions. As a guide, the current annual PhD recruiting rate is $83,985. In addition, PDFs will be allocated a travel fund to support their work.

The Role

A confluence of technological milestones in detector, computation and machine learning development, both globally and within the NRC, makes high-speed non-linear wavefront sensing for Astronomy an imminent technological milestone. We are seeking a Post-Doctoral Researcher to lead the design, build and test of a non-linear wavefront sensor from the ground up with the objective of demonstrating fully non-linear real-time control on-sky using the Dominion Astrophysical Observatory’s 1.2m telescope.

The successful candidate will conduct research toward enabling astrophysical observations which are not yet possible, and increasing the scientific productivity of ground-based optical telescopes. The candidate will leverage HAA’s real time control, machine learning, and wavefront sensing expertise, and that of collaborators at Canadian Universities. Taking advantage of HAA’s unique local on-sky Adaptive Optics capabilities, the candidate will be encouraged to grow as an instrument scientist by working to identify and find solutions to key technological hurdles in AO science, while gaining experience in the full instrument development process from conceptual design through integration at the observatory.

NRC-Herzberg has a rare combination of staff involved in astronomy research, instrumentation design and development, engineering, data science and observatory support. Our fellowships are intended to leverage this environment to help mentor researchers who will become the leaders necessary to enable ambitious cutting edge astronomy research in the coming decades. We are committed to ensuring that all staff members promptly receive the accommodation they need to do their job and we understand the importance of work/life balance.

How to Apply

Who is eligible?

  • Fellowships will be for two years contingent on satisfactory progress achieved during the first year.
  • Candidates should have obtained a PhD (or equivalent) within the past three years (PhD received on or after July 1, 2023*) or expect to complete their PhD within 6 months of appointment.
  • Fellows will work in a lab under the direct supervision of an NRC researcher.
  • Exceptions may be considered to recognize personal or family related leave. Please connect with us using the contact information below to discuss in more detail.

Application Details

For more information on application requirements: https://recruitment-recrutement.nrc-cnrc.gc.ca/job-invite/24511/

Application Deadline

19 December 2025

Inquiries

Name: Hiring Services
Email: NRC.NRCHiring-EmbaucheCNRC.CNRC@nrc-cnrc.gc.ca

Deputy Director of Gemini Observatory Job Opening

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General Description of Position:

The International Gemini Observatory is seeking a Deputy Director to help lead an extraordinary team of scientists, engineers and other professionals to enable groundbreaking discoveries in astrophysics. Gemini’s twin 8.1-meter optical / infrared telescopes provide full-sky access from two of the world’s best astronomical sites, Maunakea, Hawai‘i and Cerro Pachón, Chile.

The Gemini Observatory is funded by an international partnership including Argentina, Brazil, Canada, the Republic of Korea, and the United States. Gemini is operated on behalf of its partners by the U.S. National Science Foundation’s National Optical and Infrared Astronomy Research Laboratory (NOIRLab), under a cooperative agreement with the Association of Universities for Research in Astronomy (AURA).

A revitalized suite of instruments, adaptive optics, telescope controls and user support
infrastructure will position Gemini to be the premier large-aperture follow-up facility for time
domain astronomy in the era of the Rubin Observatory, the James Webb Space Telescope, and
the Nancy Grace Roman Space Telescope. First light at Rubin is fast approaching, to be followed
by the launch of the Legacy Survey of Space and Time and its transient alert stream. Gemini is
ideally positioned to amplify the power of Rubin.

The Gemini Observatory Deputy Director will assist the Gemini Observatory Director in the execution of their duties and in managing the internal and external affairs of the Observatory. The position may either be based at the National Optical-Infrared Astronomy Research Laboratory (NOIRLab) facility in La Serena, Chile or at NOIRLab Headquarters in Tucson, Arizona, however, preference will be given to candidates who are willing to be based in Chile.

Essential Functions:

Management Oversight:

Support and assist the Gemini Director in the discharge of their duties and assist with internal and external affairs of the Observatory, including:

  • Providing internal leadership to Gemini Observatory.
  • Oversee day-to-day operations and make operational decisions in support of Gemini’s mission.
  • Resolving personnel and staff management issues and serving as a liaison with AURA Human Resources for retention and recruitment.
  • Representing the Gemini program at National meetings and with AURA, NOIRLab, and Gemini governance bodies, liaising with the Gemini Participants on their requirements for the Observatory.
  • Assist in the tracking and management of ongoing contracting actions.
  • Coordinate with AURA-O and the other NOIRLab Programs and Services in Chile to support Gemini’s mission, including in areas of government relations, light pollution, union relations, other staffing issues, and all other areas of Gemini Observatory’s operations in Chile.
  • Serve as a key member of the Gemini Observatory Directorate and a member of the NOIRLab Management Team.

Planning & Budget Management:

  • Support the Director in the strategic planning of observatory affairs, preparation of the annual program operating plan and budget, and the reporting on the Cooperative Support Agreement with the NSF.
  • Prepare and report on the Director and Deputy Director budgets.
  • Provide oversight of the Gemini Portfolio Management Office (GPMO).

Communications and Governance:

  • In partnership with Director and NOIRLab’s Communications, Education & Engagement (CEE) team support the Observatory’s strategic communications as well as internal and external communications.
  • Lead and coordinate preparations for oversight committees; assisting the Director in preparing for the Science and Technology Advisory Committee meeting, the Gemini Board meeting, the NOIRLab Management Oversight Council, and NSF Reviews.
  • Must be willing to travel internationally extensively.
  • Must be willing to spend significant time at all Gemini sites (Hawaii, Chile, and Tucson).
  • All AURA employees are responsible for the proper management and control of all AURA property within their work area, whether assigned to them or someone else. This responsibility includes reporting any known missing, stolen, or non-working property in their work area to their supervisor or the AURA Property Officer. For detailed information on proper custodial care of government property, refer to the AURA Employee Handbook at https://hr.aura-astronomy.org/?q=handbook.
  • Responsible for ensuring compliance with government award terms and conditions assigned to this position or subordinates of this position as defined in the Vela Award Management system, https://hr.aura-astronomy.org/?q=handbook.

Required Education/Experience/Skills/Abilities:

  • PhD in astronomy or closely related field
  • Knowledge of Spanish is an asset.

Skills Required:

  • Internationally recognized scientist with broad interests beyond the field of research
  • Familiarity with ground-based and/or space-based observatory operations
  • Demonstrated strategic and analytical thinking skills
  • Motivation and ability to identify and implement new strategic directions for the Observatory in a team environment
  • Strong personnel-staff management skills
  • Excellent written and oral communication skills
  • Effective technical writing and public speaking communication skills

Experience Required:

  • At least 7+ years of post-master’s and/or PhD experience as research scientist, astrophysicist, mechanical engineer, or other related scientific field-discipline.
  • With a minimum of 3+ years of experience working in a leadership position (in a university, an observatory, and/or an equivalent science or research organization).
  • Extensive experience in people, personnel-staff management, and leadership skills.
  • Must have a valid Driver’s License; clean driving record; ability to drive a 4-wheel drive vehicle

Preferred Education/Experience/Skills/Abilities:

  • Enthusiasm for scientific discoveries and for observational astronomy;
  • Creativity, innovation, and a dedication to serving the community.
  • Excellent people management skills and building high performance teams.
  • Aptitude for dealing with strategic and tactical problems and issues.
  • Ability to communicate with a wide variety of Gemini staff, Board members, oversight and advisory committee members, and users throughout the Gemini partnership

Physical Demands:

The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

  • Must be able to remain in a stationary position at least 50% of the time.
  • Frequent need to move about inside the office environment to access files, office tools, attendance in a meeting room, etc.
  • Constantly operates a computer and other office productivity tools that require fine motor skills, such as a calculator, copy machine, computer printer, etc.
  • Frequent need to position self to maintain computer and related tools.
  • Frequently moves technology equipment weighing up to 20 pounds throughout office locations.
  • Constant communication with other individuals. Must be able to discern and exchange information as appropriate to the situation.
  • Constant need to distinguish, discern, and identify a variety of objects and fine details with accuracy.
  • Some travel may be necessary in or outside the contiguous United States including travel to the various observatory sites (Arizona, Chile and Hawai`i).
  • Occasional work at high elevation summit sites may be required (summit elevations range from 6,800 feet to 14,000 feet)

The above statements are intended to describe the general nature and level of work being performed by individuals assigned to this position. They are not intended to be an exhaustive list of all duties, responsibilities and skills required by personnel so classified.

Salary Range

$171,000 – 195,000.

The final salary will depend on skills, qualification, experience and job location.
Salaries for positions hired in Chile meet Chile national market rates and internal scales for AURA.
AURA offers an excellent benefits package including paid time off and retirement contributions, competitive salary commensurate with experience, and a very attractive work environment. Details on benefits can be found at Benefits by Location – Aura Human Resources.

How to Apply (Click Here to Apply)

Apply by November 25, 2025, for priority consideration. This position will remain open until it is filled. Please submit a cover letter and a resume, PDF files preferred. Please name any attachments with the following format: LastName FirstName.

NRC Postdoctoral Fellowship

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Job Summary

  • Institution: National Research Council of Canada
  • Department: Herzberg Astronomy and Astrophysics Research Centre
  • Duration: 2 Years
  • Number of Positions Available: 1
  • Application deadline: Dec 19, 2025
  • Work Arrangement: In-person
  • Location: Victoria

Compensation and Benefits

NRC employees enjoy a wide range of competitive benefits, including comprehensive health and dental plans, pension and insurance plans, vacation and other leave entitlements and paid parental leave.

We aim to fill these postdoctoral fellowships through NRC’s Research Associate Program which is an early-career category at NRC. The salary for this category ranges from $83,985 to $116,641 (CAD).

NOTE: Salary determination will be based on a review of the candidate’s expertise, outcomes, and impacts of their previous work experience relative to the requirements of the level.

Project Title
ALMA Archival Research on Fragmentation in Star-Forming Cores

The Program

The NRC’s Postdoctoral Fellowship program offers PDFs access to unique world-class facilities and the opportunity to work alongside multi-disciplinary teams of expert researchers and technicians on projects of critical importance to Canada. PDFs will carry out research on innovative research projects, with opportunities for career development (publications and/or industry interaction).

PDFs will be offered appointments to the staff of the National Research Council on a term basis and will be offered salaries and benefits currently available to Research Officers. Salaries commensurate with experience are taxable and subject to other deductions. As a guide, the current annual PhD recruiting rate is $83,985. In addition, PDFs will be allocated a travel fund to support their work.

The Role

ALMA’s exquisite angular resolution and sensitivity have opened the door to studying fragmentation within dense star-forming cores in our Galaxy. The few existing analyses of such fragments alongside the incidence rates expected by simulations have provided conflicting results. Large samples of detections are necessary, and a wealth of publicly available data exists in ALMA’s archive waiting to be examined. The successful applicant will harness the computing resources available in the CANFAR Science Platform to process archival ALMA continuum and line emission data of dense cores in nearby molecular clouds to identify, analyze the properties of core fragments, and compare them with those predicted by numerical simulations. With this project, the successful applicant will help to develop ‘big data’ capabilities for the CANFAR Science Platform, as it prepares to become a major computing hub as Canada’s SKA Regional Centre.

Active areas of research at NRC Herzberg include star formation, the interstellar medium, Solar System objects, exoplanets and circumstellar disks, magnetic fields, the Milky Way and Local Group, near-field cosmology and resolved stellar populations, galaxy evolution, supermassive black holes and high redshift galaxies. The Canadian Astronomical Data Centre at NRC Herzberg is involved in many areas including operating a multi-wavelength telescope archive and supporting the cloud-based computing services offered on the CANFAR Science Platform. Current and future ground- and space-based facilities from the UV to radio are represented in our instrument development, which includes radio correlators and signal processing, radio receivers, antenna design, adaptive optics, and UV/optical/near-IR instrumentation.

NRC-Herzberg has a rare combination of staff involved in astronomy research, instrumentation design and development, engineering, data science and observatory support. Our fellowships are intended to leverage this environment to help mentor researchers who will become the leaders necessary to enable ambitious cutting edge astronomy research in the coming decades. We are committed to ensuring that all staff members promptly receive the accommodation they need to do their job and we understand the importance of work/life balance.

Who is eligible?

  • Fellowships will be for two years contingent on satisfactory progress achieved during the first year.
  • Candidates should have obtained a PhD (or equivalent) within the past three years (PhD received on or after July 1, 2023) or expect to complete their PhD within 6 months of appointment.
  • Fellows will work in a lab under the direct supervision of an NRC researcher.
  • Exceptions may be considered to recognize personal or family related leave. Please connect with us using the contact information below to discuss in more detail.

Application Details

For more information on application requirements: https://recruitment-recrutement.nrc-cnrc.gc.ca/job-invite/23057/

Application Deadline
19 December 2025

Inquiries
Name: Hiring Services
Email: NRC.NRCHiring-EmbaucheCNRC.CNRC@nrc-cnrc.gc.ca

Extragalactic Astronomy Professor at U of T

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The David A. Dunlap Department of Astronomy and Astrophysics in the Faculty of Arts and Science at the University of Toronto invites applications for a full-time tenure stream position in Extragalactic Astronomy. The appointment will be at the rank of Professor, with an anticipated start date of July 1, 2026.

Candidates must have earned a PhD degree in Astronomy, Astrophysics, or a related area, with a clearly demonstrated record of excellence in research and teaching. We seek candidates in the area of Multi-wavelength studies, with an emphasis on the mid-infrared, of dust-obscured galaxies and AGN with the James Webb Space Telescope, and whose research and teaching interests complement and enhance our existing departmental strengths. Candidates will have an established international reputation and will be expected to sustain and lead innovative and independent research; maintain an outstanding, innovative, competitive, and externally funded research program; supervise research projects carried out by graduate and undergraduate students; teach undergraduate and postgraduate courses; and engage in university service activities.

Candidates must provide evidence of research excellence, which can be demonstrated by the applicant’s cover letter, a record of sustained high-impact contributions and publications in top-ranked and field relevant journals meeting high international standards, the submitted research statement, presentations at significant conferences, awards and accolades, and other noteworthy activities that contribute to the visibility and prominence of the discipline, as well as strong endorsements from referees of high standing.

We seek candidates who perform innovative research that will advance our understanding of the Universe. In their application materials, the successful candidate must:

  • Provide a demonstrated record of innovative research
  • Provide a strong research plan with a vision for how this can be achieved at the University of Toronto
  • Demonstrate their capacity to prepare the leaders of the future in astrophysics by recruiting, supervising, training and mentoring research students, early-career researchers, and/or technical staff from a diverse range of backgrounds and levels of ability

Evidence of excellence in teaching will be provided through teaching accomplishments, the teaching dossier submitted as part of the application (with required materials outlined below), as well as strong letters of reference. The successful candidate for this position must demonstrate experience in or capacity for teaching effectively and communicating clearly to a diverse student body, in a way that meaningfully advances equity, inclusion, and accessibility.

Salary will be commensurate with qualifications and experience.

The University of Toronto offers the opportunity to teach, conduct research, and live in one of the most diverse cities in the world. The David A. Dunlap Department of Astronomy & Astrophysics is actively engaged in a wide range of observational and theoretical research and offers Master of Science and Doctor of Philosophy degrees, as well as a wide range of graduate and undergraduate courses. Our graduate students come to Toronto from around the world with a wide range of academic backgrounds. They enjoy working with leading researchers in various fields, and are actively engaged in outreach programmes. The successful candidate will benefit from proximity to two other astronomy units based at the University: (1) The Dunlap Institute for Astronomy and Astrophysics, an endowed research institute dedicated to innovative technology, ground-breaking research, world-class training, and public engagement; and (2) The Canadian Institute for Theoretical Astrophysics, a renowned National theory institute. University of Toronto astronomers have access to a wide range of observational facilities with access to JWST, CHIME, CHORD, Gemini, CFHT, SDSS-V, and MWA.

All qualified candidates are invited to apply online by clicking the link below. Applicants must submit:

  • a cover letter
  • a current curriculum vitae including a full list of publications
  • a research statement outlining current and future research interests
  • a recent publication
  • a teaching dossier that includes a teaching statement, sample course materials, and teaching evaluations or evidence of performance in other teaching-related activities as listed above

Equity, diversity and inclusion are essential to academic excellence as articulated in University of Toronto’s Statement on Equity, Diversity and Excellence. We seek candidates who share these values and who demonstrate throughout the application materials their commitment and efforts to advance equity, diversity, inclusion, and the promotion of a respectful and collegial learning and working environment.

Applicants must provide the name and contact information of three references. The University of Toronto’s recruiting tool will automatically solicit and collect letters of reference from each referee within 48 hours after an application is submitted. Applicants remain responsible for ensuring that references submit recent letters (on letterhead, dated and signed) by the closing date. More details on the automatic reference letter collection, including timelines, are available on the candidate FAQ.

Submission guidelines can be found at: http://uoft.me/how-to-apply. Your CV and cover letter should be uploaded into the dedicated fields. Please combine additional application material into one or two files in PDF/MS Word format. If you have any questions about this position, please contact Professor Jo Bovy at jo.bovy@utoronto.ca.

All application materials, including recent reference letters, must be received by the closing date, November 26, 2025.

The University of Toronto has adopted the AAU Principles on Preventing Sexual Harassment in Academia, including the requirement that applicants release personnel information from prior employers regarding sexual misconduct. Full details and requirements can be found HERE

All qualified candidates are encouraged to apply; however, Canadians and permanent residents will be given priority.

Diversity Statement

The University of Toronto embraces Diversity and is building a culture of belonging that increases our capacity to effectively address and serve the interests of our global community. We strongly encourage applications from Indigenous Peoples, Black and racialized persons, women, persons with disabilities, and people of diverse sexual and gender identities. We value applicants who have demonstrated a commitment to equity, diversity and inclusion and recognize that diverse perspectives, experiences, and expertise are essential to strengthening our academic mission.

As part of your application, you will be asked to complete a brief Diversity Survey. This survey is voluntary. Any information directly related to you is confidential and cannot be accessed by search committees or human resources staff. Results will be aggregated for institutional planning purposes. For more information, please see http://uoft.me/UP.

Accessibility Statement

The University strives to be an equitable and inclusive community, and proactively seeks to increase diversity among its community members. Our values regarding equity and diversity are linked with our unwavering commitment to excellence in the pursuit of our academic mission.

The University is committed to the principles of the Accessibility for Ontarians with Disabilities Act
(AODA). As such, we strive to make our recruitment, assessment and selection processes as accessible as possible and provide accommodations as required for applicants with disabilities.

If you require any accommodations at any point during the application and hiring process, please contact uoft.careers@utoronto.ca.

Full Professor of Astrophysics position at l’Université de Montréal

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Become a Full Professor of Astrophysics!

Vibrant, multidisciplinary and innovative, the Faculty of Arts and Science is one of Université de Montréal’s largest faculties. Through its 28 departments, schools, centres and one institute, it offers over 300 undergraduate and graduate programs, some of which are unique in Quebec. It is also home to some 30 interdisciplinary research centres and groups. Every day, its 650 faculty members are helping shape a better tomorrow by advancing knowledge and encouraging the convergence of perspectives.

The Department of Physics is among the most dynamic in Canada, featuring internationally renowned researchers conducting cutting-edge research across the principal fields of contemporary physics, including eleven research chairs.

As part of the 2026 Canada Excellence Research Chairs (CERC) Program competition, the Department of Physics is recruiting a professor at the rank of Full Professor to advance research and teaching in stellar physics, especially white dwarf stars.

This position is contingent on the candidate’s success in obtaining a CERC chair in this competition.

The CERC program supports two chair categories, with maximum values of either $1,000,000 or $500,000 per year. The chair offered under this call will have a value of $500,000 per year for a duration of eight years. The successful candidate will be expected to collaborate in preparing the application, leading up to its submission in March 2026.

Day-to-day responsibilities:

Through your undergraduate and graduate-level teaching, and your research activities, you will contribute to the faculty’s pursuit of excellence. Furthermore, you will promote your discipline and actively participate in the daily activities of a renowned institution. As a professor and holder of a Canada Excellence Research Chair, you will:

  • Leverage your world-class leadership in stellar cosmochronology using whilte dwarf stars in alignment with the Government of Canada’s science, technology and innovation priorities, with the potential to generate positive social and economic benefits for Canadians;
  • Actively foster co-creation of research projects and initiatives with partners from all sectors (academic, public, private, and non-profit) to increase the application of research outcomes in astrophysics, for the benefit of society at large. You will also facilitate the mobilization and application of the Chair’s research results in diverse ways to stimulate economic growth and social innovation;
  • Have the opportunity to apply for infrastructure funding from the Canada Foundation for Innovation (CFI);
  • Teach at all levels of study;
  • Supervise master’s and doctoral students as well as postdoctoral fellows in the completion of theses and dissertations;
  • Lead major interfaculty projects with national and international reach;
  • Contribute actively to the academic and scientific life of the Department and the Faculty

Qualifications:

  • Be eligible for the CERC Program and apply to the 2026 CERC competition;
  • Hold a PhD in a relevant discipline (e.g. physics, astrophysics). This requirement is set by the Université de Montréal; not by the CERC program;
  • Demonstrate outstanding expertise and international recognition as a leader in astrophysics fields;
  • Have an international profile in the field and show strong leadership in major international networks;
  • Be able to lead ambitious, productive research teams;
  • Possess the qualities required to conduct research that mobilizes and applies knowledge to deliver social and economic benefits for Canada and beyond;
  • Demonstrate the ability to provide interdisciplinary teaching;
  • Have the ability to work collaboratively in an interdisciplinary context, in complementarity with faculty members;
  • Have adequate proficiency of the French language or be committed to learning it once hired, through the Université de Montréal’s French language support program, in accordance with the Université de Montréal language policy.

Additional information about the position:

  • Competitive salary and a comprehensive range of benefits
  • Expected start date: as of June, 1 2026
  • Located at the MIL Campus

How to submit your application:

Submit your application through our online recruitment system (click on the “Apply for job” button) during the posting period, from October 10 to November 15 2025, inclusively. Your application must include the following documents:

  • A cover letter;
  • A curriculum vitae;
  • Copies of, or links to, three recent publications or research papers;
  • A statement outlining your teaching and mentoring experience and approach;
  • A research program proposal;
  • Contact information of three referees who will be asked to provide letters of recommendation;
  • Important: the research program proposal should cover 8 years (suggested length: 4 pages).

Contact information for recommendation letters

Nicole St-Louis, Chair
Department of Physics
nicole.st-louis@umontreal.ca

Data Science Assistant Professor opening at UBCO

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The Department of Computer Science, Mathematics, Physics and Statistics (CMPS), Irving K. Barber Faculty of Science at the University of British Columbia (UBC) Okanagan campus invites applications for a full-time tenure-track appointment in the area of Data Science at the rank of Assistant Professor.

Applicants must have a Ph.D. in Data Science, Computer Science, Statistics or a closely related field. We encourage data scientists with applications to astronomy to apply.

We seek a candidate with expertise in or related to any of the following areas (listed alphabetically): applied optimization, Bayesian inference, big data analysis (especially as applied within astronomy or medical physics), computational statistics, data visualization, deep learning or statistical learning, nonparametric modelling, sampling and data collection, spatial and temporal data analysis, statistical finance, or unsupervised/semi-supervised machine learning. The candidate will be expected to teach and develop new courses in data science or related programs at the undergraduate and graduate levels. Our department is looking for an individual who will make an impact through inspirational teaching, establishing a research program of international quality, providing exceptional training of data science students, and engaging with local and national companies and organizations. The department currently has partnerships with BC Cancer, Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada, and the Dominion Radio Astrophysical Observatory and the Square Kilometre Array.

The candidate will have a strong commitment to equity, diversity, and inclusion and a commitment to creating a welcoming community and a strong commitment to Indigenous engagement.

Please direct inquiries to the Department Head, Ramon Lawrence, at cmps.depthead@ubc.ca, or to Alex Hill at cmps.depthead@ubc.ca

Applications are due November 30. For the full advertisement and to apply, see https://ubc.wd10.myworkdayjobs.com/en-US/ubcfacultyjobs/job/Assistant-Professor—Data-Science_JR22381

Deputy Director of Gemini Observatory Job Opening

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NOTE: This position has been reposted with slightly different conditions such as that of the application deadline. This post is for archival purposes only. The new post is HERE

General Description of Position:
The International Gemini Observatory is seeking a Deputy Director to help lead an extraordinary team of scientists, engineers and other professionals to enable groundbreaking discoveries in astrophysics. Gemini’s twin 8.1-meter optical / infrared telescopes provide full-sky access from two of the world’s best astronomical sites, Maunakea, Hawai‘i and Cerro Pachón, Chile.

The Gemini Observatory is funded by an international partnership including Argentina, Brazil, Canada, the Republic of Korea, and the United States. Gemini is operated on behalf of its partners by the U.S. National Science Foundation’s National Optical and Infrared Astronomy Research Laboratory (NOIRLab), under a cooperative agreement with the Association of Universities for Research in Astronomy (AURA).

A revitalized suite of instruments, adaptive optics, telescope controls and user support
infrastructure will position Gemini to be the premier large-aperture follow-up facility for time
domain astronomy in the era of the Rubin Observatory, the James Webb Space Telescope, and
the Nancy Grace Roman Space Telescope. First light at Rubin is fast approaching, to be followed
by the launch of the Legacy Survey of Space and Time and its transient alert stream. Gemini is
ideally positioned to amplify the power of Rubin.

The Gemini Observatory Deputy Director will assist the Gemini Observatory Director in the execution of their duties and in managing the internal and external affairs of the Observatory. The position may either be based at the National Optical-Infrared Astronomy Research Laboratory (NOIRLab) facility in La Serena, Chile or at NOIRLab Headquarters in Tucson, Arizona, however, preference will be given to candidates who are willing to be based in Chile.

Essential Functions:

Management Oversight:
Support and assist the Gemini Director in the discharge of their duties and assist with internal and external affairs of the Observatory, including:

  • Providing internal leadership to Gemini Observatory.
  • Oversee day-to-day operations and make operational decisions in support of Gemini’s mission.
  • Resolving personnel and staff management issues and serving as a liaison with AURA Human Resources for retention and recruitment.
  • Representing the Gemini program at National meetings and with AURA, NOIRLab, and Gemini governance bodies, liaising with the Gemini Participants on their requirements for the Observatory.
  • Assist in the tracking and management of ongoing contracting actions.
  • Coordinate with AURA-O and the other NOIRLab Programs and Services in Chile to support Gemini’s mission, including in areas of government relations, light pollution, union relations, other staffing issues, and all other areas of Gemini Observatory’s operations in Chile.
  • Serve as a key member of the Gemini Observatory Directorate and a member of the NOIRLab Management Team.

Planning & Budget Management:

  • Support the Director in the strategic planning of observatory affairs, preparation of the annual program operating plan and budget, and the reporting on the Cooperative Support Agreement with the NSF.
  • Prepare and report on the Director and Deputy Director budgets.
  • Provide oversight of the Gemini Portfolio Management Office (GPMO).

Communications and Governance:

  • In partnership with Director and NOIRLab’s Communications, Education & Engagement (CEE) team support the Observatory’s strategic communications as well as internal and external communications.
  • Lead and coordinate preparations for oversight committees; assisting the Director in preparing for the Science and Technology Advisory Committee meeting, the Gemini Board meeting, the NOIRLab Management Oversight Council, and NSF Reviews.
  • Must be willing to travel internationally extensively.
  • Must be willing to spend significant time at all Gemini sites (Hawaii, Chile, and Tucson).
  • All AURA employees are responsible for the proper management and control of all AURA property within their work area, whether assigned to them or someone else. This responsibility includes reporting any known missing, stolen, or non-working property in their work area to their supervisor or the AURA Property Officer. For detailed information on proper custodial care of government property, refer to the AURA Employee Handbook at https://hr.aura-astronomy.org/?q=handbook
  • Responsible for ensuring compliance with government award terms and conditions assigned to this position or subordinates of this position as defined in the Vela Award Management system, https://cas.aura-astronomy.org/Awards.

Required Education/Experience/Skills/Abilities:

  • PhD in astronomy or closely related field
  • Knowledge of Spanish is an asset.

Skills Required:

  • Internationally recognized scientist with broad interests beyond the field of research
  • Familiarity with ground-based and/or space-based observatory operations
  • Demonstrated strategic and analytical thinking skills
  • Motivation and ability to identify and implement new strategic directions for the Observatory in a team environment
  • Strong personnel-staff management skills
  • Excellent written and oral communication skills
  • Effective technical writing and public speaking communication skills

Experience Required:

  • At least 7+ years of post-master’s and/or PhD experience as research scientist, astrophysicist, mechanical engineer, or other related scientific field-discipline.
  • With a minimum of 3+ years of experience working in a leadership position (in a university, an observatory, and/or an equivalent science or research organization).
  • Extensive experience in people, personnel-staff management, and leadership skills.
  • Must have a valid Driver’s License; clean driving record; ability to drive a 4-wheel drive vehicle

Preferred Education/Experience/Skills/Abilities:

  • Enthusiasm for scientific discoveries and for observational astronomy;
  • Creativity, innovation, and a dedication to serving the community.
  • Excellent people management skills and building high performance teams.
  • Aptitude for dealing with strategic and tactical problems and issues.
  • Ability to communicate with a wide variety of Gemini staff, Board members, oversight and advisory committee members, and users throughout the Gemini partnership

Physical Demands:
The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

  • Must be able to remain in a stationary position at least 50% of the time.
  • Frequent need to move about inside the office environment to access files, office tools, attendance in a meeting room, etc.
  • Constantly operates a computer and other office productivity tools that require fine motor skills, such as a calculator, copy machine, computer printer, etc.
  • Frequent need to position self to maintain computer and related tools.
  • Frequently moves technology equipment weighing up to 20 pounds throughout office locations.
  • Constant communication with other individuals. Must be able to discern and exchange information as appropriate to the situation.
  • Constant need to distinguish, discern, and identify a variety of objects and fine details with accuracy.
  • Some travel may be necessary in or outside the contiguous United States including travel to the various observatory sites (Arizona, Chile and Hawai`i).
  • Occasional work at high elevation summit sites may be required (summit elevations range from 6,800 feet to 14,000 feet)

The above statements are intended to describe the general nature and level of work being performed by individuals assigned to this position. They are not intended to be an exhaustive list of all duties, responsibilities and skills required by personnel so classified.

Salary Range
$171,000 – 195,000.
The final salary will depend on skills, qualification, experience and job location.
Salaries for positions hired in Chile meet Chile national market rates and internal scales for AURA.
AURA offers an excellent benefits package including paid time off and retirement contributions, competitive salary commensurate with experience, and a very attractive work environment. Details on benefits can be found at Benefits by Location – Aura Human Resources.

How to Apply
Apply by October 15, 2025, for priority consideration. This position will remain open until it is filled. Please submit a cover letter and a resume, PDF files preferred. Please name any attachments with the following format: LastName FirstName.

Click HERE to Apply

Individuals needing assistance with the employment process can request assistance at employment@aura-astronomy.org

Equal Opportunity Employer
This employer is required to notify all applicants of their rights pursuant to federal employment laws. For further information, please review the Know Your Rights notice from the Department of Labor.