Astrophysics Institute Program Scientist [Data & Software Systems]

Job Description

Job Description

Summary

The Astrophysics Institute at Schmidt Sciences seeks a Data Management & Software Systems expert to guide the design and implementation of next-generation data management systems for astronomy. This role is ideal for a technically fluent leader who bridges astronomy, data engineering, and software architecture — someone who understands the full life cycle of astronomical data and can oversee complex, distributed systems built to serve the global scientific community.

The successful candidate will help shape the Institute’s data management strategy, overseeing teams and partners building data pipelines, archives, and user-facing tools for ground- and space-based observatories. This is a rare opportunity to define how philanthropy can accelerate scientific discovery through robust, open, and interoperable data infrastructure.

Schmidt Sciences

Schmidt Sciences is a philanthropy dedicated to fostering the advancement of science and technology. We approach this by identifying under-supported or unconventional areas of exploration and discovery in order to accelerate and deepen our understanding of the natural world and develop solutions to global issues.

We seek ideas, people, and techniques across disciplines of science and technology to catalyze results for society. Our focus areas include AI and Advanced Computing, Astrophysics and Space, Biosciences, Climate, and Cross-Science programs.

The Astrophysics Institute at Schmidt Sciences aims to rapidly expand our knowledge of the universe through the creation of innovative hardware and software platforms. This includes the development of computational tools and frameworks, ground and space-based instrumentation, and the promotion of fresh approaches to technological advancement that develop resources at a fraction of the typical time and cost.

The Role

Reporting to the Director of the Astrophysics Institute, the Data Management & Software Systems Expert will guide the architecture, integration, and strategy of data management systems across the Institute’s observatory and mission portfolio.

This person will define system-level requirements, evaluate technical designs, and ensure that data infrastructure developed by partners and grantees meets the highest standards of interoperability, performance, and accessibility. They will be responsible for identifying and selecting qualified external vendors and contractors, establishing contractual agreements, and overseeing their work throughout project lifecycles. They will not necessarily write production code but must understand the systems deeply enough to direct, review, and synthesize the work of multiple teams.

Key responsibilities for this role include the following :

Data Systems Architecture and Strategy

• Develop and refine the architecture for data management systems supporting Schmidt Sciences–funded observatories and instruments.
• Define system-level requirements and workflows — from raw telemetry to science-ready archives — ensuring scalability, reproducibility, and open access.
• Establish technical standards and documentation frameworks for data pipelines, archives, and analysis services.

Implementation Oversight and Integration

Data Stewardship and Standards

Collaboration and Leadership

Requirements

Desired Additional Skills

This is an exempt position.