Space Telescope Science Institute · 2 days ago
Principal Astronomical Data Scientist
The Space Telescope Science Institute (STScI) is a multi-mission science and flight operations center for NASA’s flagship observatories. They are seeking a Principal Astronomical Data Scientist to lead a Scrum team in developing data analysis tools primarily focused on data visualization for the astronomical community.
AerospaceEducationNon Profit
Responsibilities
Engage directly with software developers to drive product success
Translating the science needs and mission requirements into specifications for data analysis tools
Serve as the main point of contact between stakeholders and the product development team
Prioritize and maintain the product backlog
Promote the data analysis tools through community outreach, conferences and meetings
You will, design, develop, test and deploy software to assist astronomers in analyzing astronomical data, in close collaboration with STScI’s technical and scientific staff
You will provide technical and scientific development to Python notebooks that focus on scientific use cases
Qualification
Required
You have worked with astronomical data and understand user needs from a pipeline and data analysis perspective. HST and JWST a plus
You have advanced Python Experience in multiprocessing, multithreading, or optimizing performance of Python code for large datasets is a plus
You are comfortable with writing unit tests and with test-driven development
Bachelor's degree in Astronomy or Physics or a comparable degree
An advanced degree in Astronomy, Physics, or a related field is preferred, with 5+ years of experience in an astronomical research role or as an observatory scientist supporting astronomical research
Education or professional background in astronomy, or software development in a research environment is helpful
Preferred
An advanced degree in Astronomy, Physics, or a related field is preferred, with 5+ years of experience in an astronomical research role or as an observatory scientist supporting astronomical research
Benefits
Employer retirement contribution – direct STScI contribution of 10% of your salary from your first day
12 days sick leave, up to 24 days’ vacation, and 10 paid holidays
Flexible work schedule with work/life balance
Comprehensive medical/dental/vision/prescription plans, and more!
Company
Space Telescope Science Institute
Space Telescope Science Institute is a company focused on technology and implementation of long range telescopes.
Funding
Current Stage
Late StageRecent News
2026-01-06
2025-12-19
Company data provided by crunchbase