Operations Scientist

An ideal role for a radio astronomer with Observatory experience who is keen to contribute to the operational planning and Science Verification of the SKAO. The SKAO Operations group is seeking to employ a talented and motivated Operations Scientist to join our team based in the SKAO Global Headquarters located at Jodrell Bank in the UK. With both SKA-Low and SKA-Mid now in the construction and commissioning phases, planning for operations has entered an exciting phase.

In order to support our planning, this role will play a key part in establishing the operational foundation of a world-leading radio astronomy facility. We are seeking a scientist with experience in the operation of astronomical facilities and a strong understanding of radio astronomy instrumentation, data processing and scientific analysis. Equally important is experience supporting a diverse user community and translating scientific requirements into effective operational practices.

The successful candidate will be highly skilled in communication, as well as in collaborative and inclusive work practices. They will draw on their experience and expertise within their established networks and the broader astronomical community to inform the detailed SKAO operational plan and policies. They will also be required to support the planning and execution of scientific commissioning and verification for the SKAO.

The appointee will be encouraged to carry out research up to 25% of employed hours. Appropriate support, including conference travel, will be provided. This role will be based at the SKAO Headquarters at Jodrell Bank, Cheshire, UK.

SKAO is committed to providing an inclusive and flexible working environment, meeting the requests of our Colleagues whilst also fulfilling the needs and objectives of the Observatory. These roles may be offered on a full-time, part-time or job share basis. Please raise your preference in your application.

Due to the locations involved in the SKA project, in particular the UK and Australia, this role requires the post holder to work across different time zones and, in line with SKAO policy, flexible working hours will be supported in agreement with the line manager.

Under the direction of the SKAO Head of Science Operations, the successful candidate will support the future science operations of the SKAO in the following ways:

• Contribute to the development and continual refinement of the Operations, and Science Verification plans;
• Support the definition of the array assembly requirements and their evolving capabilities, as well as commissioning;
• Support the implementation of Science Verification and Operations plans, as the arrays are handed over from construction to operations;
• Effectively interface with the SKA user community, promote SKAO activities, gather community feedback, influence where appropriate, and facilitate appropriate support through the SKAO Helpdesk and other activities;
• Support the development of software needed to operate the SKA telescopes or necessary for the SKA user community;
• Effectively collaborate with SKA staff across the three sites (i.e. some travel to the SKAO telescope sites in Australia and/or South Africa will be necessary);
• Communicate openly, effectively and respectfully with internal and external stakeholders;
• Optionally undertake a programme of personal research up to 25% of employed hours;
• Undertake other duties as directed by the Head of Science Operations.

A University PhD degree in Astronomy, Physics, Engineering, another closely related and relevant field, or equivalent qualification.

Demonstrated experience in scientific facility operations and user support, including translating user requirements into effective operational practices.

Demonstrated ability to engage and influence diverse stakeholders, including scientists, engineers and external partners, through strong written and verbal communication skills.

Expertise in radio astronomy techniques including in the efficient acquisition, reduction and analysis of astronomical data.

An awareness of, and commitment to, inclusive practices, including accessibility, to facilitate broad access to the observatory.

Experience working with a diverse and globally distributed telescope user community and providing appropriate user support.

Expertise in beam-forming techniques to support the operations of time domain science (pulsars, fast transients) and VLBI.

An appreciation and understanding of the science cases motivating the SKA Observatory.

Experience understanding and articulating the needs of a user (e.g. radio astronomer) to inform the development of requirements (e.g. through a series of use cases) and/or operational policies.