Astronomer/Multi-Object Spectroscopy Project Scientist

ESO is engaged in the operation (FLAMES/VIMOS/FORS2/KMOS) and construction (MOONS/4MOST/ELT-MOS) of a number of multi- object instruments for its observatories. The Multi-Object Spectroscopy project scientist follows the development and construction phases of new instruments ensuring that the top-level requirements are fulfilled and that the operational scenario for the instrument is commensurate with the scientific needs and the constraints of the observatory.

Main Duties and Responsibilities:

The Astronomer/Multi-Object Spectroscopy Project Scientist:

• Provides scientific leadership to the MOS instrumentation programmes within ESO;
• As a member of the ESO Astronomy Faculty, the applicant will be expected and encouraged to conduct a strong personal research programme and to participate actively in the scientific life of ESO;
• Holds and maintains the MOS Top Level Requirements;
• Supports the instrument teams in testing, commissioning and early operations;
• Participates in progress meetings, instrument reviews etc.;
• Tracks the evolving requirements for the MOS emerging from the community;
• Liaises with ESO's scientific community on MOS related issues;
• Works closely with the Project Managers, Project Engineers and System Engineers to ensure the implementation of the Top Level Requirements throughout the design/construction/early operation phases;
• Interacts closely with the observatory and data management teams on operational aspects;
• Coordinates the activities of the MOS instrument Science Teams.

The tasks are not limited to the above and a flexible approach and willingness to adapt are required.

Reports to:

Head of the project science department

Experience:

• Excellent writing and communication skills;
• Several years of research experience with the planning, execution, analysis and publication of spectroscopic wide- area surveys;
• Ability to conduct a strong personal research program and to participate actively in the scientific life of ESO;
• Good publication record;
• Past involvement in one or more of construction, design or operation of MOS instrumentation;
• Active research programme;
• Proficiency in relevant data reduction methods and tools;
• Familiarity with major ongoing or planned surveys (instruments, science goals, teams);
• Understanding of the survey-driven science requirements on instruments and strategies for their realisation;
• Cooperative team player;
• Good cross-disciplinary communication skills;
• Ability to work in a clearly structured approach with meaningful reports to supervisors and presentations to governing bodies.

Key Competences:

• Provides scientific vision and leadership to geographically dispersed multi-cultural/multi-disciplinary teams within cost constrained programme;
• Ability to effectively communicate at all levels within the organisation and with the community;
• Strong influencing skills, ability to motivate and inspire others;
• Provides clear, concise and timely oral and written communications, identifying the key issues, examining options and proposing a way ahead.

Qualifications:

• Ph.D. in astronomy, physics or equivalent

Language Skills:

• Excellent command of the English language is essential

Remuneration and Contract:

We offer an attractive remuneration package including a competitive salary, comprehensive pension scheme and medical, educational and other social benefits, as well as financial help in relocating you and your family and the possibility to place your child/children in daycare.

The contract is for a fixed-term period of three years, renewable with the possibility of an indefinite appointment. Serious consideration will be given to outstanding candidates willing to be seconded to ESO on leave from their home institutions. The grade may be subject to change according to qualification and the number of years of experience.

Duty Station:

Garching near Munich, Germany with duty trips to ESO sites in Chile will be required

Career Path:

V

Starting Date:

As soon as possible

Application:

If you are interested in working in areas of frontline technology and in a stimulating international environment, please visit (http://www.eso.org) for further details.

Applicants are invited to apply online at http://jobs.eso.org/. Applications must be completed in English and should include a motivation letter, CV containing a publication list with a research statement. Also required are the names and contact details of three scientists familiar with your work and willing to provide a recommendation letter. Referees will be automatically invited to submit a recommendation letter. However, applicants are strongly advised to trigger these invitations (using the web application form) well in advance of the application deadline.

Closing date for applications is 31 May 2015.

Interviews are expected to start soon after this date.

No nationality is in principle excluded however, recruitment preference will be given to nationals of Austria, Belgium, Brazil, the Czech Republic, Denmark, Finland, France, Germany, Italy, the Netherlands, Poland, Portugal, Spain, Sweden, Switzerland and the United Kingdom.

The post is equally open to suitably qualified female and male applicants.