OPENING DATE: March 23, 2026
CLOSING DATE: April 3, 2026
TYPE OF POSITION: Trust Indefinite (Non-Federal)
DIVISION: ATOMIC AND MOLECULAR PHYSICS
LOCATION: CAMBRIDGE, MA
AREA OF CONSIDERATION: This position is open to all eligible candidates.

Conditions of Employment

INTRODUCTION
The Smithsonian Astrophysical Observatory (SAO) is at the forefront, internationally, of the scientific exploration of the universe. SAO combines its resources with those of the Harvard College Observatory to form the Harvard-Smithsonian Center for Astrophysics (CfA). The CfA is the best-known astrophysics center in the world. Its programs range from ground-based astronomy and astrophysics research to space-based research, the engineering and development of major scientific instrumentation for space launch and use in large ground-based facilities, and research designed to improve science education. The research objectives of SAO are carried out primarily with the support of Government and Smithsonian Institution funds, with additional philanthropic support. Government funds are in the form of Federal appropriations or the form of contracts and grants from other agencies. In contrast, Institution funds are available to SAO through grants from the Institution's Restricted Funds, Special Purpose Funds, Bureau Activities, Business Activities, and non-Federal contracts and grants.

SUMMARY
This is the position of Atmospheric Physicist in the Atomic and Molecular Physics Division of the Smithsonian Astrophysical Observatory (SAO). The employee will perform research on atmospheric composition measurements, including aerosols and trace gases from Earth satellites’ observations. The employee will be part of a research group working on the design, development and implementation of software for atmospheric measurements and on the application of the measurements for scientific studies. The software will involve advanced algorithms for generation of data products for aerosols, gases, and clouds from UV/visible spectra. Research includes data analysis and sensitivity studies for satellite observations, especially for TEMPO (Tropospheric Emissions: Monitoring of Pollution) and its synergistic missions.

1. Define scientific and system requirements to develop and evaluate advanced scientific and numerical algorithms, especially for aerosols and trace gases. This will involve implementing retrieval algorithms for remote sensing of atmospheric constituents, testing software, improving algorithm, and assessing result.

2. Assist other scientists and/or programmers in developing programs for retrieval and application of satellite data products.

3. Perform scientific studies involving atmospheric measurements, radiative transfer, chemical transport modeling, tropospheric chemistry, and spectroscopy.
4. Prepare refereed publications and present results at professional meetings.

5. Contribute to the enhancement or enrichment of the research portfolio of the atmospheric measurement group at SAO through innovative retrieval method, science application, or modeling for satellite observations.

Basic Requirements
A) Degree in physics; or related degree that included at least 24 semester hours in physics;
or
B) Combination of education and experience -- courses equivalent to a major in physics totaling at least 24 semester hours, plus appropriate experience or additional education.

In either A or B above, the courses must have included a fundamental course in general physics and, in addition, courses in any two of the following: electricity and magnetism, heat, light, mechanics, modern physics, and sound.
Additional Requirements
In addition to the Basic Requirements above, you must have:
a) One year of specialized experience that is equivalent in difficulty and responsibility to grade 11 level work in the Federal government. The experience would have included operating with wide latitude for independent judgment, performing complex analysis in the field of aerosol / trace gas remote sensing, and collaborating effectively with colleagues.
OR
Education for Grade 12: Ph.D. or equivalent doctoral degree.
OR
Combinations of successfully completed graduate level education and specialized experience may be used to meet total experience requirements.

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities (Required)

Applicants, who wish to qualify based on education completed outside the United States, must be deemed equivalent to higher education programs of U.S. Institutions by an organization that specializes in the interpretation of foreign educational credentials. This documentation is the responsibility of the applicant and should be included as part of your application package.

Any false statement in your application may result in your application being rejected and may also result in termination after employment begins.

The Smithsonian Institution values and seeks a diverse workforce. Join us in "Inspiring Generations through Knowledge and Discovery."

Resume/CV should include a description of your paid and non-paid work experience that is related to this job; starting and ending dates of job (month and year); and average number of hours worked per week. College Transcript should be provided if using education for qualification.

What To Expect Next: Once the vacancy announcement closes, a review of your resume will be compared against the qualification and experience requirements related to this job. After review of applicant resumes is complete, qualified candidates will be referred to the hiring manager.

Commitment to Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion
The Smithsonian Institution provides reasonable accommodation to applicants with disabilities where appropriate. Applicants requiring reasonable accommodation should contact hr@cfa.harvard.edu. Determinations on requests for reasonable accommodation will be made on a case-by-case basis. To learn more, please review the Smithsonian’s Accommodation Procedures.

The Smithsonian Institution is an Equal Opportunity Employer. We believe that a workforce comprising a variety of educational, cultural, and experiential backgrounds support and enhance our daily work life and contribute to the richness of our exhibitions and programs. See Smithsonian EEO program information: www.si.edu/oeema.

The Smithsonian Astrophysical Observatory is an equal opportunity employer committed to diversity in our workplace. Please visit the SAO website at http://www.cfa.harvard.edu/.