Lawrence Berkeley National Lab’s (LBNL) Physics Division has an opening for a DESI Operations Project Scientist to join the team.

In this exciting role, you will assist the Dark Energy Spectroscopic Instrument (DESI) Data Management operations team, focusing on evaluating data quality and improving data processing algorithms to meet the needs of DESI science analyses.  Responsibilities will include supporting the spectroscopic data processing pipeline through improvements to algorithms, workflow, quality assurance tracking, and monitoring survey progress.

The posting shall remain open until the position is filled, however for full consideration, please apply by midnight on December 15, 2021.

What You Will Do:

• Maintain and improve spectroscopic pipeline algorithms in response to issues discovered in data and by science analyses.

• Interact with DESI collaboration science working groups to assist them with using the DESI data and improve the data processing algorithms in response to the needs of the science analyses.

• Coordinate with the survey team to schedule calibrations and observations based upon data quality.

• Coordinate regular DESI software releases for reprocessing runs, including testing and documentation.

• Contribute to the operations of the spectroscopic pipeline at NERSC, both the daily runs and the reprocessing for the data assemblies.

• Independently plan and complete projects within DESI Data Management.

• Contribute to larger collaborative projects with others from the DESI Data Management team.

What is Required:

• Ph.D. or equivalent in physics, astronomy, or a closely related field.

• Experience in cosmology, astronomy, or particle physics research.

• Analysis experience with astronomical spectra and/or imaging data.

• Experience with data processing on Linux clusters and/or High Performance Computing systems.

• Strong Python programming skills.

• Knowledge of astronomical data processing methods.

• Ability to work as a team member to accomplish goals on a collaborative software project.

• Excellent written and oral communication skills.

• Detail oriented.

Desired Qualifications:

• Experience with spectroscopy.

• Experience programming algorithms for astronomical data processing. 

• Experience preparing data releases and/or software releases for a scientific community beyond immediate collaborators.

• C++ or Julia; Docker; Databases; GPU programming

• MPI programming and/or non-MPI parallelism methods.

• Code profiling and optimization.

• Git code versioning workflow, including branches and pull requests

• Ability to mentor students.

How To Apply:

For full consideration, please apply by midnight on December 15, 2021, but the position will remain open until filled. For inquiries please contact Kelly Rushing (krushing@lbl.gov).

The following requested application materials listed below must be submitted through Academic Jobs Online: 

1. Curriculum vitae.

2. A list of up to ten relevant publications, including contributions for multi-author publications.

3. A statement describing current and future research interests (3-page limit excluding figures and references).

4. A statement describing past activities and future interests in diversity, outreach and leadership (1 page maximum).

5. Arrange to have 3 letters of reference submitted (at least one reference from outside LBNL/UC Berkeley).

Notes:

• This is a full time 3 year term appointment with the possibility of extension up to 5 years based upon satisfactory job performance, continuing availability of funds and ongoing operational needs.

• This position may be subject to a background check. Any convictions will be evaluated to determine if they directly relate to the responsibilities and requirements of the position. Having a conviction history will not automatically disqualify an applicant from being considered for employment.

• Work will be primarily performed at Lawrence Berkeley National Lab, 1 Cyclotron Road, Berkeley, CA.

Based on University of California Policy - SARS-CoV-2 (COVID-19) Vaccination Program and U.S Federal Government requirements, Berkeley Lab requires that all members of our community obtain the COVID-19 vaccine as soon as they are eligible. As a condition of employment at Berkeley Lab, all Covered Individuals must Participate in the COVID-19 Vaccination Program by providing proof of Full Vaccination or submitting a request for Exception or Deferral. Visit covid.lbl.gov for more information.

Berkeley Lab is committed to Inclusion, Diversity, Equity and Accountability (IDEA) and strives to continue building community with these shared values and commitments. Berkeley Lab is an Equal Opportunity and Affirmative Action Employer. We heartily welcome applications from women, minorities, veterans, and all who would contribute to the Lab's mission of leading scientific discovery, inclusion, and professionalism. In support of our diverse global community, all qualified applicants will be considered for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, age, or protected veteran status.

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