Lead the Future of Discovery: Astrophysicist at the Smithsonian
Are you a seasoned researcher ready to take the helm of high-stakes solar physics instrumentation? The Smithsonian Institution is currently seeking a visionary Astrophysicist to join its High Energy Astrophysics Division in Cambridge, Massachusetts. This is a rare opportunity to influence national and international research strategies while working at one of the world's most prestigious scientific landmarks.
Job Responsibilities
This role is far more than a typical research position; it is a leadership role designed to shape the direction of solar studies. Key duties include:
- Instrumentation Leadership: Directing the development of state-of-the-art IR solar coronal instrumentation.
- Scientific Strategy: Acting as a Principal Investigator (PI) for major missions and experiments.
- Team Oversight: Managing research teams, mentoring graduate students, and conducting performance reviews for staff.
- Collaboration: Coordinating with scientists at other institutions to facilitate software development and observational planning.
- Publication and Peer Review: Presenting findings at professional conferences and submitting papers to high-impact scientific journals.
Requirements
To be considered for this GS-15 level role, candidates must meet rigorous standards:
- Education: A degree in astronomy, physics, mathematics, or space science.
- Experience: One year of specialized experience equivalent to the GS-14 federal level.
- Citizenship: Must be a U.S. citizen.
- Background Check: Must be able to clear a pre-appointment background investigation.
Salary and Benefits
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Salary Range | $167,560 - $197,200 per year |
| Location | Cambridge, MA |
| Organization | Smithsonian Institution |
| Clearance | Other (Low Risk/Non-sensitive) |
Application Tips
- Focus on Impact: When writing your two-page resume, emphasize how your past research led to measurable results, such as securing funding or developing new hardware.
- Be Precise: Always include start and end dates (month/year) and hours worked per week for every job listed.
- Use the Questionnaire: Your resume must support every claim made in your online questionnaire. Inconsistencies may lead to a lower score.
The position of Astrophysicist at the Smithsonian Institution is a pivotal role for any researcher looking to make a lasting impact on our understanding of the solar corona. With a competitive salary, world-class facilities, and a collaborative environment, it is an ideal next step for established scientific leaders. Apply before the October 30, 2026, deadline to be considered.
Why This Astrophysicist Job Matters
Lead the future of solar coronal research at the Smithsonian Astrophysical Observatory in Cambridge, Massachusetts.
Astrophysicist Job Overview
The Smithsonian Institution invites applications for a high-level Astrophysicist position within the High Energy Astrophysics Division. Based in Cambridge, Massachusetts, this role involves spearheading advanced instrumentation programs to investigate solar coronal physics. You will serve as a principal investigator, managing complex research portfolios, overseeing instrumentation development, and mentoring scientific teams in a globally recognized research environment.
Requirements for Astrophysicist
- U.S. citizenship is required.
- Must be registered with the Selective Service if born after December 31, 1959.
- One year of specialized experience at the GS-14 level or equivalent.
- Academic degree in physics, astronomy, mathematics, space science, or electronics.
- Must pass a pre- and post-appointment background investigation.
- Potential 12 to 18-month probationary period for management duties.
Preferred Qualifications for Astrophysicist
- Proven track record of securing funding through NASA or NSF grants.
- Demonstrated leadership in international astrophysical instrumentation initiatives.
- Expertise in coronal magnetometry and middle-corona plasma diagnostics.
- Significant record of original, peer-reviewed research publications in solar physics.
Federal Benefits & Perks
- ✓Federal government health and life insurance options.
- ✓Retirement planning and pension programs.
- ✓Paid federal holidays and leave accrual.
- ✓Access to Smithsonian-wide resources and research facilities.
- ✓Potential recruitment incentives for qualified candidates.
💡 How to Apply Astrophysicist Job & Insider Tips
Application Steps for Astrophysicist Job
- Prepare a resume that specifically addresses the job duties and specialized experience requirements, keeping it under two pages.
- Ensure your resume includes dates of employment (month/year) and hours worked per week.
- Gather supporting documents, such as SF-50 forms, transcripts, and proof of veteran preference if applicable.
- Submit your application through the official portal using the Apply Online button.
- Monitor your email for status updates and confirmation of receipt from the Smithsonian HR team.
💡 General Tips
- The system will rate your application based on your resume and questionnaire responses; ensure your resume explicitly details the experience required in the job description.
- Do not exceed the two-page limit for your resume, as longer documents may not be fully reviewed.
- If you are submitting faxed documents, use the system-generated coversheet to ensure your files are successfully indexed.
- Review your responses to the occupational questionnaire against your resume to ensure consistency; inflated claims may result in a reduced rating.
Frequently Asked Questions
What level of federal experience is required for this position?
Applicants must demonstrate at least one year of specialized experience equivalent to the GS-14 level in federal service.
Can I substitute education for the required experience?
No, there is no education substitution for this position; it requires a specific combination of education and professional specialized experience.
Does the Smithsonian offer relocation assistance?
The Smithsonian Institution does not provide relocation expenses for this position.
Job from Smithsonian Institution
The Smithsonian Astrophysical Observatory (SAO) is a global leader in astronomical research. As part of the Smithsonian Institution, the SAO is dedicated to increasing knowledge about the universe through observational, experimental, and theoretical research. The organization thrives on collaboration, working closely with groups like the Submillimeter Array (SMA) and other international partners to solve the most pressing questions in modern astrophysics.