IGRINS Polarimeter Instrument Scientist

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The University of Texas (UT) McDonald Observatory, a major astronomical research observatory, seeks highly qualified, highly motivated applicants for the position of Immersion Grating Infrared Spectrometer (IGRINS) Polarimeter Instrument Scientist.

The IGRINS is a successful near-infrared (1.45- 2.45um) spectrograph located on the McDonald Observatory Harlan J. Smith Telescope. The project is funded to add a polarimeter to the spectrograph to measure all four Stokes parameters. We will construct the polarimeter and write software to collect and analyze high-resolution spectra to measure stellar magnetic fields down to ~0.1kG. Additionally, the use of polarized light will lower the RV uncertainties with IGRINS to below 30m/s.

The proposed program of construction, testing, and iterative engineering will produce sensitive measurements in support of stellar astrophysics and exoplanet science.

The project is expected to run for four years, subject to continued funding and performance. Future involvement will be contingent on the availability of funds (from the current funding agency and future science proposals) and on performance (based on meeting project deadlines and goals). The IGRINS team at UT Austin is also developing the Giant Magellan Telescope Near Infrared Spectrograph (GMTNIRS), and a successful effort on the IGRINS Polarimeter could lead to a role in GMTNIRS development and commissioning.

This position is at the University of Texas at Austin campus. It will require occasional travel to the McDonald Observatory, located 16 miles from Fort Davis, Texas (440 miles from the UT Austin campus).

• Competitive health benefits (Employee premiums covered at 100%; family premiums at 50%)
• Vision, dental, life, and disability insurance options
• Paid vacation, sick leave, and holidays
• Teachers Retirement System of Texas (a defined benefit retirement plan)
• Additional voluntary retirement programs: tax-sheltered annuity 403(b) and a deferred compensation program 457(b)
• Flexible spending account options for medical and childcare expenses
• For more details, please see: (Use the "Apply for this Job" box below). -rewards

As the instrument scientist, this position will work in collaboration with the IGRINS PI, Prof. Dan Jaffe, and project manager, Dr. Greg Mace, to develop and refine polarimeter design, construction, assembly and test, and commissioning.

• Collaborate with engineers and research staff on the IGRINS project to create a plan for success within the project timeline.
• Responsible for overseeing the development of the instrument software, acquisition of parts materials and services needed in construction, in addition to leading the assembly and testing, along with the IGRINS team.
• Present the instrument at conferences and engage the future user community.
• As the project advances, work with our team to develop grant proposals to enable science following the current grant for commissioning.
• Other duties related to team projects, such as IGRINS support and maintenance, or support of GMTNIRS' Final Design and follow-up.

• PhD in Astronomy or Astrophysics. Five years of experience in instrument development, support, software, and/or commissioning. It is strongly desired that you have a scientific interest and expertise with near-infrared spectroscopy and/or spectropolarimetry.
• Strong verbal, written, and interpersonal communication skills.
• Excellent organizational skills.
• Ability to be adaptable, work independently, and work collaboratively.
• Experience in managing people and projects, and as an integral project team member.
• Demonstrable good judgment.
• Knowledge of astronomy research and observatory operational best practices.
• Relevant education and experience may be substituted as appropriate.

• Extensive experience in supporting research programs of the scientific community in an optical/IR observatory environment.
• Demonstrated ability to achieve goals in accordance with the mission of the observatory.

$120,000

• Working at a computer, including repetitive keyboard use at a workstation.
• May work in all weather conditions.
• Use of manual dexterity.
• May include climbing stairs and ladders, as well as lifting and moving.
• McDonald Observatory is located approximately 6800 feet above sea level. Environmental conditions can be unpredictable, and temperatures can range from
  -10F and +95F. Inclement winter weather can be expected, which requires being comfortable driving in wintry conditions on mountain grades.

• Generally, M-F, 8 am - 5 pm.
• May require extended hours.
• As part of a…