Assistant​/Associate Project Scientist - Department of Astronomy & Astrophysics

Position overview

Position title: Assistant Project Scientist - FY (non-senate)

Associate Project Scientist - FY (non-senate)

Salary range: A reasonable salary estimate for this position is $92,200–$106,100. The posted UC academic salary scales, Academic salaries | UCOP, set the minimum pay determined by rank and/or step  the following table for the salary scale for this position (T37

B) Salary will be commensurate with experience.

Open date: August 27, 2026

Next review date: Friday, Sep 11, 2026 at 11:59pm (Pacific Time)

Apply by this date to ensure full consideration by the committee.

Final date: Thursday, Aug 26, 2027 at 11:59pm (Pacific Time)

Applications will continue to be accepted until this date, but those received after the review date will only be considered if the position has not yet been filled.

The UC San Diego Optical and Infrared Laboratory (OIRLab) seeks an Assistant Project Scientist to support the development of cutting-edge astronomical instrumentation for major ground-based observatories, including the W. M. Keck Observatory and other leading facilities. The successful candidate will work as part of a multidisciplinary team on the design, development, integration, assembly, and testing of advanced optical and infrared instruments.

The position requires a strong engineering background and hands‑on experience in one or more areas of optics, optomechanics, mechanical systems, electronics, instrumentation design, and system assembly. This position offers a unique opportunity to contribute to some of the world’s most advanced astronomical instruments and to work at the forefront of observational astronomy and instrumentation technology.

At UC San Diego, Project Scientists are academic researchers who are expected to make significant and creative contributions to a research team, but are not necessarily leaders of the research team. They are not required to carry out independent research or develop an independent research reputation but will publish and carry out research or creative programs with supervision by a member of the Professor or Professional Research series.

Project Scientists may not serve as a Principal Investigator but may serve as Co-Principal Investigators with members of the Professor or Research Scientist series. University and public service are encouraged but not required, and they do not have formal teaching responsibilities. Appointment durations vary depending on the length of the research project and availability of funding.

Ph.D. Physics/Astronomy/Engineering

3+ years or more of engineering and laboratory experience.

• Curriculum Vitae - Your most recently updated C.V.
• Cover Letter (Optional)
• Statement of Research
• Statement of Teaching (Optional)
• Misc/Additional (Optional)

• 3-5 required (contact information only)

3 reference contacts

Help contact: cmaldonadorodas

The University of California is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, age, protected veteran status, or other protected status under state or federal law.

As a university employee, you will be required to comply with all applicable University policies and/or collective bargaining agreements, as may be amended from time to time. Federal, state, or local government directives may impose additional requirements.

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