Scientific Outreach Coordinator

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Job Summary

IPAC at the California Institute of Technology is seeking a Scientific Analyst to join the Science Affairs team at the NASA Exoplanet Science Institute (NExScI). As part of Caltech's Physics, Math, and Astronomy Division, NExScI is committed to providing data and tools that support the global discovery and characterization of exoplanets and their host stars (https://www.ipac.caltech.edu/project/exoplanet-archive ).

About the NExScI Science Affairs Team

The NExScI Science Affairs team is at the forefront of facilitating interaction between the exoplanet research community and NASA’s Exoplanet Exploration Program. The team is responsible for the management, in partnership with W. M. Keck Observatory, of the NASA Keck time, the management of the Sagan(exoplanet) portion of the NASA Hubble Fellowship Program, and the development and organization of NExScI-hosted scientific events. Additionally, we organize The Sagan Summer Workshop which now attracts more than 1400 participants worldwide. We also are actively involved in supporting NASA’s Exoplanet Exploration Program at community conferences such as the annual AAS and DPS meetings.

Essential Job Duties

Reporting to the NExScI Science Affairs Task Lead Scientist, the Scientific Analyst will have a diverse range of responsibilities, including but not limited to:

• Supporting the administration of NASA’s scientific use of the two 10-m W. M. Keck Telescopes atop Maunakea, including:
• Assisting with Telescope Allocation Committee process
• Scheduling NASA telescope time in conjunction with the WMKO staff
• Serving as the executive secretary for and logistically supporting the NASA IRTF Keck Users Group meetings twice per year.
• Serving as Contract Technical Monitor for Keck PI data awards
• Assisting with planning, implementation and on-site running of workshops and conferences hosted and/or supported by NExScI.
• Representing NExScI at key scientific conferences.
• Keeping NExScI’s webpages updated and relevant.

Basic Qualifications

Naturally, you will be capable of demonstrating your prior record of achievement in the following:

• M.S. degree in astronomy, planetary science, or a related discipline.
• 3+ years of experience (or equivalent) in observational astronomy.
• Excellent oral and written communication skills.
• Proficiency in software tools such as Word, Excel, and PowerPoint.
• Ability to thrive within a small team environment.

Preferred Qualifications

Beyond these basic qualifications, there are a set of skills which will add to your ability to be successful in the role. Even if these don’t yet describe you, we’d still like to hear from you:

• PhD in astronomy, planetary science, or a related discipline.
• Experience organizing scientific conferences and/or meetings.
• Strong organization skills and the ability to multi-task.
• Experience with basic webpage development.

Required Documents

• Resume.
• Cover Letter.

Complete applications submitted by June 14, 2024, will receive full consideration, although review of applications will continue until a suitable candidate has been identified.

People choose to work at IPAC for many reasons, and the casual, employee-centric culture often leads to fulfilling, long-term careers and positive relationships. Caltech’s benefits program offers a quality, competitive benefits package that is affordable for you and the Institute. We also offer a 403(b) defined contribution plan to eligible staff as well as a Voluntary Retirement Savings (TDA) Plan. IPAC staff have access to the Institute’s facilities, including the athletic center, libraries, on-site daycare, professional development and enrichment classes, and Athenaeum club membership.