USRA is seeking a Lead Scientist for Information Systems Development to provide a science input and leadership in the development of SOFIA Information Systems. The Lead Scientist provides support to software engineering in the requirements analysis, design, intergration, test, verification and operations of software systems involved in USRA's science and engineering mission.  The Lead Scientist also provides inputs and support to the ISD Manager in balancing technical and programmatic objectives, planning for future software developments, and staffing decisions.  Requires research experience in observational astronomy and a working knowledge in the full software lifecycle; software requirements analysis, architecture definition, detail design, implementaion, integration, test, verification and maintenance. The Lead Scientist is expected to maintain an active research program. This position requires proven leadership, communications, organizational and customer interface skills, as well as familiarity with the full software development lifecycle. This position is based at NASA Ames Research Center at Moffett, CA but significant travel is required to Dryden Flight Research Center.

Qualifications and experience required for this position:

• PhD in Astronomy (or related field)
• Minimum 4 years of observatory operations or development experience.
• The successful candidate will understand software management practices, software architecture specification, object-oriented design and formal test methods.
• Experience with development of astronomy or observatory applications and NASA process and documentation standards preferred. 

To apply:

E-mail your Resume or CV to: IDSLS@sofia.usra.edu with salary requirements, list of publications, and a description of your research interest in Word or PDF with your last name and job number (S0812) as the document title. Please specify in your cover letter names and contact information of theree (3) references and if you will require an employer sponsored Visa.

Visit: http://www.sofia.usra.edu  Look under the employment link for a detailed job description of this position as well as other positions we are  hiring for. 

WHO WE ARE:

Universities Space Research Association (USRA) is dedicated to advancing space sciences and exploration through innovation research, technology, and educational programs.

SOFIA Program:

The Stratospheric Obesrvatory for Infrared Astronomy (SOFIA) is a premier observatory for infrared and sub-millimeter astronomy.  A 747-SP aircraft will carry a 2.5-meter telescope designed to make sensitive infrared measurements on a variety of astronomical objects.  It will fly at an altitude up to 45,000 feet. First flight is expected in early 2009 and regular observing is expected to begin in 2010.  SOFIA is ajoint projet between NASA and German Aerospace Center. DLR.  USRA will operate the SOFIA Science Center at NASA's Ames Reseach Center for NASA. The aircraft observatory will be based at NASA's Dryden Flight Research Center at Edwards Air Force Base in Palmdale.