ESO Vacancy for
a Virtual Observatory Facility Centre Astronomer

European Organisation for Astronomical Research in the Southern Hemisphere
Personnel Department
Karl-Schwarzschild-Str. 2
D-85748 Garching bei München
Germany

	Nathalie Kastelyn
Fax:	0049-89-32006-497
E-mail:	vacancy@eso.org

Applications are invited for the position of a

Virtual Observatory Facility Centre Astronomer

PURPOSE AND SCOPE OF THE POSITION

ESO is establishing an operational Virtual Observatory (VO) together with other leading astronomical data centres in Europe, as part of the EURO-VO project. ESO's VO activities are managed by the Virtual Observatory Systems (VOS) Department, which is also responsible for turning the Science Archive Facility (SAF) into a really powerful scientific resource for the ESO community. The EURO-VO Facility Centre provides the EURO-VO with a centralized organisation for resources, standards, and certification mechanisms, as well as community support for VO technology dissemination and scientific programme support using VO tools and resources.

The EURO-VO Facility Centre Astronomer will report to the head of the Virtual Observatory Systems Department (http://www.eso.org/org/dmd/vos/), which is part of the Data Management and Operations Division.

DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES

The successful candidate will be responsible for implementing the EURO-VO Facility Centre functions, including interacting with the European astronomical community in terms of encouraging the utilization of VO tools for astronomical projects, publicizing the VO in Europe, and carrying out VO science. He/she will also work with the VOS Department head towards making the EURO-VO Facility Centre a focal point of European astronomy.

PROFESSIONAL REQUIREMENTS/QUALIFICATIONS

A PhD in astronomy, physics, or equivalent is required. Candidates should have worked in astronomical research for several years at least at the postdoctoral level and should be familiar with a broad range of instrumental, data analysis, and observational techniques. Experience in the use of large astronomical databases, archival data, and VO software and tools will be an important asset. A strong record of multi-wavelength astronomical research with large catalogues is highly desirable. Excellent communication skills, ability to work in a team, and an excellent command of the English language are essential.

Duty station: Garching near Munich, Germany

Starting date: As soon as possible

Contract and Remuneration: This is an appointment based on a fixed-term contract (Paid Associate) of one year with the possibility of extension. We offer an attractive remuneration package including a competitive salary (tax-free), comprehensive social benefits, and provide financial support in relocating families. Furthermore, an expatriation allowance as well as some other allowances may be added.

Applications: If you are interested in working in a stimulating international research environment and in areas of frontline science and technology, please send us your CV (in English language) and the ESO Application Form by

12 April 2006.

For further information, please contact Mrs. Nathalie Kastelyn, Personnel Department. You are also strongly encouraged to consult the ESO Home Page (http://www.eso.org) for additional information about ESO.

Although preference will be given to nationals of the Member States of ESO: Belgium, Denmark, Finland, France, Germany, Italy, The Netherlands, Portugal, Sweden, Switzerland and United Kingdom, no nationality is à priori excluded. The post is equally open to suitably qualified male and female applicants.

ESO Vacancy for a Virtual Observatory Facility Centre Astronomer

ESO Vacancy for
a Virtual Observatory Facility Centre Astronomer