The Department of Astronomy at the University of Florida invites applications for the position of Scientist. This position is full-time, twelve-month, and non-tenure-track with a flexible start date as early as March 1, 2022. We are looking for a dynamic individual to oversee the operations of the UF Astronomy Observatories, including the Campus Teaching Observatory, the Rosemary Hill Observatory near Gainesville, and the 50” Dharma Telescope in Arizona. Candidates should have a background in observational astronomy and/or instrumentation, and have the potential to contribute to the Department in the following areas: (1) working with small telescopes of ~1 m and smaller, (2) public communication, (3) management and use of the observatories, and (4) coordinating work by departmental engineers, and (5) leading our experiential learning and outreach efforts. This position will include interaction with students, faculty, staff, and the general public. The successful candidate will lead special outreach events organized by the Department and will have the opportunity to teach or supervise departmental labs. We strongly welcome applicants with a vision for expanding experiential learning and outreach programs using our facilities, on behalf of the Department.

A Ph.D. degree in Astronomy, Astrophysics, Physics, or a closely related field is expected, but we will consider other highly qualified candidates with appropriate experience. This position is annually renewable based upon satisfactory performance and availability of funds. The salary is competitive and commensurate with qualifications and experience and includes a full benefits package.

Further information on the observatories can be found at:

https://astro.ufl.edu/research/telescopes/campus-teaching-observatory/

https://astro.ufl.edu/research/telescopes/rosemary-hill-observatory/

UF is ranked the 5th best public university in the United States by US News and World Report 2022, with exceptional research, teaching, and a university-wide commitment to diversity. The Department of Astronomy particularly welcomes applicants who can contribute to a diverse and inclusive environment through their scholarship, teaching, mentoring, and professional service. The university and greater Gainesville communities enjoy a diversity of cultural events, restaurants, year-round outdoor recreational activities, and social opportunities.

Instructions for candidates:

For full consideration, applications must be submitted online at https://jobs.ufl.edu/, position 86893.

A complete application should consist of: (1) a letter of application summarizing the applicant’s qualifications, interests, and suitability for the position, (2) a complete curriculum vitae, (3) a description of observing, teaching, and outreach experience, and how those contribute to the candidate’s ability to carry out their duties with respect to experiential learning, and (4) a list of at least three references. After initial review, applicants who are chosen to receive further consideration will be asked to request confidential letters of recommendation from the references. Applications will be reviewed beginning December 17, 2021, and the position will remain open until filled.

All candidates for employment are subject to a pre-employment screening which includes a review of criminal records, reference checks, and verification of education.

The selected candidate will be required to provide an official transcript to the hiring department upon hire. A transcript will not be considered “official” if a designation of “Issued to Student” is visible. Degrees earned from an educational institution outside of the United States require evaluation by a professional credentialing service provider approved by the National Association of Credential Evaluation Services (NACES), which can be found at http://www.naces.org/.

The University of Florida is an equal opportunity institution dedicated to building a broadly diverse and inclusive faculty and staff. Searches are conducted in accordance with Florida’s Sunshine Law. If an accommodation due to disability is needed in order to apply for this position, please call (352) 392-2477 or the Florida Relay System at (800) 955-8771 (TDD).