To HEAD Members

This item is from Alan Bunner and Don Kniffen of NASA Headquarters:
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NASA's Office of Space Science (OSS) is seeking an experienced scientist to fill a Program Scientist position within the Research Program Management Division at NASA Headquarters.  These positions are normally filled for two years, with a possible one or two year extension, by individuals on leave from their home institution and supported via Intergovernmental Personnel Act (IPA) grants or as a civil service detailee from a NASA Center or other federal institution.  Previously these positions were known as "visiting senior scientists." 

The successful candidate will work closely with both the Director of the Research Program Management Division (Guenter Riegler) and the Science Director for Structure and Evolution in the Universe Theme (Alan Bunner).  The position offers opportunities to participate in the planning, development and management of high-energy astrophysics missions and in the management of the high-energy astrophysics research and analysis program at NASA HQ. Specifically the activities include guest observer and data analysis programs for ongoing missions, advanced technology and mission concepts for future missions, and supporting research and technology for all of high-energy astrophysics.  Additional activities include contributing to the evaluation and selection of missions in the Explorer program, and serving as Program Scientist by representing the scientific interests of several high-energy astrophysics missions.  The position also offers the opportunity to play a leadership role in developing budgets for major agency initiatives, program plans for science operations, and long range strategic plans for OSS which define the high-energy astrophysics and SEU program into the future.  

The last two years have seen the launch of the Chandra X-ray Observatory (CXO) and the High Energy Transient Explorer (HETE). These programs are in their main observing phase. The Gamma-ray Large Area Space Telescope (GLAST) and SWIFT Missions are in development and Constellation-X, a high priority mission in the OSS Strategic Plan, has also received the strong endorsement in the decadel survey. In addition, the Structure and Evolution of the Universe theme has one of NASA’s highest recommendations for a new “Cosmic Journey’s” initiative in the FY02 budget.  

The successful candidate must have a Ph.D. or equivalent in astronomy or
physics.  Experience in observational and/or instrumental research at X-ray
or gamma ray wavelengths is desirable.  Applicants will have an opportunity
to make a difference in the execution of the overall OSS science mission and will be expected to demonstrate a high degree of initiative in doing so.  Applicants should be familiar with the U.S. grants programs and possess an ability to communicate effectively with the stakeholders in OSS, including the scientific community, educators, and the media.  Salary is competitive with senior scientists at universities.  Allowances for relocation and travel expenses and occasional trips to the home institution are included. A modest amount of time is available for research.  The position is available beginning July 1, 2001, though the starting date is negotiable. Expressions of interest should be forwarded to Dr. Don Kniffen, Dr. Louis Kaluzienski or Dr. Alan Bunner  by March 1, 2001.

For additional information, contact Dr. Don Kniffen (dkniffen@hq.nasa.gov;
202-358-0351).