ESO is inviting applications from motivated and visionary scientists for the position of VLTI Project Scientist. We are especially keen to welcome applicants who bring a collaborative spirit and a passion for advancing science and technology at the highest level with expertise in instrumentation for optical/infrared interferometry or related fields. The ESO VLTI Project Scientist will support instrumentation developments in the Instrumentation Programme (in particular GRAVITY+), as well as activities within ESO's Technology and Developments programme.
This Project Scientist will interface with groups at external institutes or consortia working on developments or upgrades. You will join ESO's supportive and globally connected research environment, where collaboration and innovation are deeply valued.
You will have the freedom to drive forward your own scientific research, benefit from robust professional development opportunities, and contribute to cutting-edge developments in optical/infrared astronomy. Collaborate closely with the VLTI Programme Scientist, interface with the on-site team (Paranal) as well as the technical and operation teams;
Lead and support the latest stages of the GRAVITY+ project, ensuring optimal on-sky performance and smooth transition into operations;
Contribute to the long-term on-sky performance of VLTI and its instrumentation (including software, configuration) in collaboration with the on-site responsible;
Follow up the establishment and support of suitable data reduction methods where appropriate;
Develop the commissioning and calibration plans for projects under their responsibilities and ensure their execution where applicable;
Evaluate the scientific use of upgrades and help shape future development paths where applicable;
Develop their own scientific research in optical/IR interferometry, ideally with the projects that they have been working on.
The tasks are not limited to the above and we are seeking applicants who are adaptable and enthusiastic, with a willingness to grow with the project and within ESO. As a member of the ESO Astronomy Faculty, the VTLI Project Scientist is expected and encouraged to conduct a strong personal research programme and to participate actively in the scientific life of ESO.
Head of the Project Science Department.
Active research programme, demonstrating the planning, execution, analysis and publication of observations/instrumentation in optical/IR interferometry or adjacent fields;
Ability to contribute to calibration and commissioning of hardware and/or software components of an optical/IR interferometer;
Proficiency in relevant data reduction and analysis methods and tools;
Ability to work effectively in a team, with a positive approach toward building links across teams in an international multi-cultural environment;
PhD in astronomy, physics or equivalent.
Excellent command of the English language, oral and written (ESO's working language).
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 your family and support to place your child/children in daycare.
ESO aims to support members of personnel in maintaining a good work-life balance (https://www.eso.org/public/jobs/conditions/intstaff/#work-life-balance) between their professional and private life. ESO is also committed to offering family-friendly support (https://www.eso.org/public/jobs/conditions/intstaff/#family-friendly-support), creating a work environment and policies which allow staff to balance their professional and private responsibilities through flexible working arrangements and financial support for families.
This role is based at ESO's Headquarters in Garching, near Munich, Germany - a vibrant and diverse hub for science and innovation. Duty trips to the ESO sites in Chile and European institutes may be required but remote attendance to some of meetings can be also arranged if necessary.
If you are interested in working in areas of frontline science and 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:
and a research plan of two pages maximum.
Also required are the names and contact details of three scientists familiar with your work and willing to provide a recommendation letter. However, applicants are strongly advised to trigger these invitations (using the web application form) well in advance of the application deadline.