Physicist

Final date to receive applications: 4 October 2026

Department: Smithsonian Astrophysical Observatory

Employment Type: Full Time

Location: Cambridge, MA

Compensation: $142,452 - $185,193 / year

OPENING DATE: October 1, 2026

CLOSING DATE: October 5, 2026

TYPE OF POSITION: Trust Indefinite (Non-Federal)

DIVISION: ATOMIC AND MOLECULAR PHYSICS

LOCATION: CAMBRIDGE, MA

AREA OF CONSIDERATION: This position is open to all current SAO employees.

• Pass Pre-employment Background Check and Subsequent Background Investigation, as required.
• Complete a Probationary Period if applicable.
• Maintain a Bank Account for Direct Deposit/Electronic Transfer.
• The position is open to all candidates eligible to work in the United States. Proof of eligibility to work in U.S. is not required to apply.
• Applicants must meet all qualification and eligibility requirements within 30 days of the closing date of this announcement.

INTRODUCTION The Smithsonian Astrophysical Observatory (SAO) is at the forefront, internationally, of the scientific exploration of the universe. SAO combines its resources with those of the Harvard College Observatory to form the Harvard-Smithsonian Center for Astrophysics (CfA). The CfA is the best‑known astrophysics center in the world. Its programs range from ground‑based astronomy and astrophysics research to space‑based research, the engineering and development of major scientific instrumentation for space launch and use in large ground‑based facilities, and research designed to improve science education.

The research objectives of SAO are carried out primarily with the support of Government and Smithsonian Institution funds, with additional philanthropic support. Government funds are in the form of Federal appropriations or the form of contracts and grants from other agencies. In contrast, Institution funds are available to SAO through grants from the Institution's Restricted Funds, Special Purpose Funds, Bureau Activities, Business Activities, and non‑Federal contracts and grants.

SUMMARY This is the position of Physicist with broad experience in these technical areas and their application to problems in astrophysics. The duties of this position are to support and initiate development of new instrumentation and new projects in the Receiver Lab, across the CfA, and externally. As an expert in both the development and application of instrumentation for astrophysical research, it is expected that the incumbent will perform astronomical observing and astrophysical research on an occasional basis.

The position is located in Cambridge, MA.

Participates in and initiates development and enhancement of instrumentation for radio astronomy and experimental cosmology, including project‑related work supporting the wSMA, ngEHT, and BHEX, and other CfA and external efforts, and other work having broader technical and scientific impact. Proposes for internal and external funding for instrumentation development projects. Proposes and conducts astronomical observations to validate and evaluate new instrumentation, and to support original astrophysical research.

Engage in dissemination of research results. Examples include preparing papers for publication in scientific journals, preparing and presenting findings at scientific meetings, writing scientific and technical memos, and presenting at project reviews. Organizes or participates in internal meetings, meetings with collaborators, and meetings with commercial vendors related to observatory operations, and to scientific and technical developments. Organizes or assists in organizing meetings, conferences, and seminars;

serves scientific and technical committees as needed; and participates in…