ESO Vacancy for
a Virtual Observatory Software Engineer

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 Software Engineer

PURPOSE AND SCOPE OF THE POSITION

ESO is establishing an operational virtual observatory (VO) together with other leading astronomy data centres in Europe (EURO-VO) and further international partners.

The VO Software Engineer will be a member of ESO's Virtual Observatory Systems Department that by the end of 2007 will ensure that the ESO/ST-ECF Science Archive Facility (SAF), which host a unique wealth of space and ground based observations, becomes compliant with the relevant VO standards and procedures. Our vision is to turn SAF into a science discovery toolbox with capabilites comparable to an actual instrument mounted on a telescope.

DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES

The successful candidate will work on the data access layer of SAF and implement new methods for resource discovery. He or she will also work on the system integration with middleware components and databases, its deployment within SAF and assist in technology take-up by other European and international data centres. The "VO Software Engineer" will participate in the corresponding EURO-VO design study called VOTech, evaluate new technologies and assist in building and demonstrating prototype tools for the scientific community.

PROFESSIONAL REQUIREMENTS/QUALIFICATIONS

The ideal candidate will be familiar with common software engineering practices. He or she has got three years of experience with object-oriented concepts and methodologies, experience with manipulating large volumes of data, XML document processing and programming experience in Java or C++. An excellent command of the English language is required, both spoken and written. The capability to work on software projects as a team member with other groups of geographically dispersed developers is a must.

Applicants with additional experience in several of the following areas are strongly encouraged to apply: Virtual Observatories, web and grid service frameworks such as Globus and Condor, data analysis and data mining tools, web content management, SQL, Java, Perl or Python.

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

7 June 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 Software Engineer

ESO Vacancy for
a Virtual Observatory Software Engineer