Applications are invited for the position of MAROON-X instrument scientist in the group of Prof. Jacob Bean at the University of Chicago. The position could be appointed at the level of either postdoctoral scholar, research scientist, or research professor depending on the experience of the candidate. The position is available immediately, with an ideal start date before March 1, 2024.

MAROON-X is an Extreme Precision Radial Velocity instrument on the 8m Gemini North telescope. It is currently a visiting instrument that is in the process of transitioning to a facility instrument. MAROON-X is operated fully remotely and it is used by both the U. Chicago team and the diverse Gemini community.

The instrument scientist's responsibilities are focused on overseeing the operation of the instrument and its data reduction pipeline, and assisting with the transition to facility status. Some specific duties include coordinating observing runs, performing occasional remote nighttime observations, training others to use the instrument, monitoring the instrument health status, running the data reduction pipeline, packaging data for delivery to community users, improving and documenting software, assisting with instrument interventions, and assisting with observing and funding proposal preparation.

The position requires regular work outside normal business hours (e.g., performing observations, diagnosing instrument health anomalies) and occasional travel to Hawaii (e.g., performing instrument interventions). The applicant should be able to work on the 14,000' summit of Mauna Kea where MAROON-X is located.

Candidates should have experience with instrumentation, and preferably high-resolution spectroscopy and radial velocity measurements. A Ph.D. in astronomy or a related field is required. The instrument scientist will be invited to participate in the wide range of scientific activities in the Bean group. There is flexibility for the instrument scientist to pursue additional instrumentation and/or science projects according to their interest.

To apply, email a CV and statement of interest in the position (max 2 pages) to Prof. Jacob Bean (jbean -at- astro.uchicago.edu). In addition, have at least two letters of recommendations emailed directly to Prof. Bean from your references. Applications will be accepted until the position is filled. Applications received by October 15 will receive full consideration.

Appointments will be initially for one year with the possibility of extension depending on performance, availability of funding, and project needs. Salary will be commensurate with appointment level.

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All University departments and institutes are charged with building a faculty from a diversity of backgrounds and with diverse viewpoints; with cultivating an inclusive community that values freedom of expression; and with welcoming and supporting all their members.

We seek a diverse pool of applicants who wish to join an academic community that places the highest value on rigorous inquiry and encourages diverse perspectives, experiences, groups of individuals, and ideas to inform and stimulate intellectual challenge, engagement, and exchange. The University’s Statements on Diversity are at https://provost.uchicago.edu/statements-diversity .

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Job seekers in need of a reasonable accommodation to complete the application process should call 773-834-3988 or email equalopportunity@uchicago.edu with their request.