Scientist (Open Rank)

Position Description: Position SummaryThe National Radio Astronomy Observatory (NRAO) is a prestigious research and development organization that plays a vital role in the study of the universe. Associated Universities Inc. (AUI) is a nonprofit organization that manages and operates the NRAO under a cooperative agreement with the National Science Foundation. The Observatory is a hub for technological and scientific collaboration operating state-of-the-art radio telescope facilities for use by the international scientific community. The Observatory has been instrumental in the study of black holes galaxies and the early development of an X-Ka wideband receiver spanning 8-38 GHz has begun for the VLBA enabling new scientific and astrometric capabilities for the instrument. This highly anticipated upgrade will add flexibility and enhance performance by significantly increasing the instantaneous bandwidth available for channelization enabling access to previously unobservable frequencies and enabling more efficient and comprehensive spectral NRAO isseekingaScientist Open Rank (Assistant Associate or Scientist)tobe the Project Scientist for the VLBA X-Ka Wideband Receiver appointee will be expected to spend 75% of their time onfunctional work as part of the VLBA Development Team with the remaining 25% available for independent research. The primary responsibility of this position is to help oversee the development and integration of a novel X-Ka receiver system being developed for installation on the VLBA. The appointment will be on the NRAO Scientist track with starting rank determined by the candidates experience. This position will be a three-year appointment with the possibility of renewal subject to observatory needs budget and mutual will be based in New Mexico at either the Albuquerque or Socorro NRAO office with travel between the two sites as You Will be DoingTechnical Development and Integration:Capture and maintain top level project requirements Work with project leadership to develop and maintain project foundation documentsOrganize testing and commissioning campaigns and preparation of test reportsHelp coordinate installation while minimizing impacts to the VLBA observing programPrepare material for and participate within project reviewsEstablish standard observing bandsParticipate in trade studiesCommunity and User Support:Communicate with scientific users and external mission partnersPrepare user- and public-facing documentation such as user guides news articles press releasesScientific Contribution:Contribute to the broader VLBA development portfolio by consulting and collaborating with teams on parallel projects like the Next Generation Radar (ngRadar) and the Next Generation VLA (ngVLA).Maintain awareness of developments at related astronomical facilitiesMaintain an active independent research program which ideally makes significant use of Observatory facilitiesWork EnvironmentThe position is based in an office environment. The successful candidate must be able to work at a computer with detailed and complex textual and numerical information. Who You Are: EducationA astronomy or related fieldExperienceAt least one year of related experience using radio interferometry for astronomical researchSkills and CompetenciesStrong communication skills in written and oral EnglishStrong inter-personal skillsFamiliarity with Linux / Unix operating systemsAbility to travelPreferred: High-level understanding of the functionality of radio telescopesExperience scheduling VLBI experimentsExperience reducing VLBI dataExperience within a leadership team of medium to largeprojectsProficiency in the Python computer languageAdditional RequirementObservatory employees must be authorized to work in the United States. The Observatory presently cannot sponsor H-1B Visas for this Rewards: CompensationThe starting salary rate of this position is between $85000-$138000 per year. Factors which may affect starting pay within this range may include; education experience skills competencies other qualifications of the successful candidate as well as internal equity and labor market :Associated Universities Inc (AUI) offers a comprehensive benefits package addressing the needs of employees and their families with most benefits beginning on the first day of employment subject to eligibility requirements. AUI provides:Excellent paid time off (13 holidays annual accrual of up to 24 vacation days)Medical dental and vision plans are effective on the first day of retirement benefit contributes an amount equal to 10 percent of a qualified participants base pay with no required employee Total Rewards for more Instructions: For consideration select the Apply button. Please prepare a single PDF document consisting of the following items:Cover letter stating why you are interested in this position the letter should describe how the you match the position and qualifications summarized above (no more than 2 pages)Curriculum vitae including publications listSummary of past research (1 page)Future research plan describing specifically synergies with NRAO facilities (2 pages)Summary of past technical observational and management experience relevant to this position (1 page)The names and contact information for three individuals familiar with your technical scientific and management abilities. Candidates selected for an interview must be prepared to submit three letters of recommendation. Instructions for letter submission will be provided at the time of request. The PDF file is to be uploaded with the Additional Documents feature at the applicant portal. The deadline for receipt of complete applications is October 5 2026. Please direct inquiries to Opportunity Employer Statement: AUI is an equal opportunity employer. To view our complete statement please visit If you require reasonable accommodation for any part of the application or hiring process you may submit your request by sending an email to PM20