Resident Astronomer

Job Description

Job Description

Applications are invited for the position of Resident Astronomer at the Canada-France-Hawai'i Telescope (CFHT). CFHT is a 3.6 m scientifically competitive telescope located near the summit of Maunakea. CFHT is particularly interested in candidates who have experience in optical or near-infrared high-resolution spectroscopy. The position is located at our headquarters in Waimea, Hawai'i. The appointment will be for an initial period of three years and is renewable. The position is supported by the National Research Council of Canada.

Maunakea is a mountain of high cultural and spiritual significance to Native Hawaiians. CFHT recognizes its privilege to conduct scientific observations from this iconic mountain, and joins the Native Hawaiian people in their demands for shared governance of Maunakea and advocacy for Native Hawaiian rights.

CFHT's success comes from high-quality instrumentation and Science Operations that optimize nighttime and maximize scientific return. CFHT operates its two main instruments in Queue Scheduled Observing (QSO) mode remotely from Waimea with no nighttime staff at the summit facility.

The suite of instruments consists of MegaCam, a 1 degree x 1 degree 340 Mpix CCD mosaic optical camera, and Wenaokeao, which allows simultaneous observations with ESPaDOnS, a high-resolution fiber-fed optical spectro-polarimeter, and SPIRou, a near-infrared high-resolution spectro-polarimeter and velocimeter.

Resident Astronomers have approximately one-third of their time available for research and are expected to become active users of CFHT. CFHT resident astronomers also have competitive access to 10 nights of Director's Discretionary Time on the telescope each semester and have a research budget that is used to cover research-related travel and other expenses. Collaborations with astronomers from the Institute for Astronomy at the University of Hawai'i, and scientists from other Maunakea observatories are encouraged.

Resident Astronomers are assigned daytime QSO coordination duties with occasional nighttime support, with shifts that include occasional weekends and holidays. They also serve as project or instrument scientist for the development of instrumental or software projects.

Minimum requirements are a Ph.D. in astronomy, physics, or astrophysics or equivalent, combined with experience in instrument development, software development, and telescope scientific operations. Candidates without previous post-doctoral experience but showing definitive potential for duties involved in operational issues of CFHT will also be considered. Salary will be commensurate with qualifications and experience. Competitive benefit packages and relocation assistance are also provided. The individual selected must pass a physical exam certifying ability to work at 4200 meters altitude. Due to the nature of this position, work is occasionally required on weekends and holidays, but we do also have a flexible work policy allowing variable hours for instrument support and up to 40% remote work. CFHT is an equal opportunity employer.

This position posting will be open until January 22, 2027; we will begin reviewing applications on December 1st, 2026. Our desired start date for the position is no later than July 2027. Applications must be completed online at and include a detailed curriculum vitae, a list of publications, a statement of research interests including those particularly appropriate for CFHT, and a statement addressing their experience and aptitude for the CFHT support tasks. Applicants should also provide contact information for three individuals who can provide letters of recommendation.

For more information, contact Dr. Nadine Manset (View email address on ziprecruiter.com).

To apply, visit The full position description may be downloaded at this site.

CFHT is an equal opportunity employer and is committed to a diverse and inclusive workplace that fosters collaborative scientific discovery and innovation. In support of this commitment, CFHT does not discriminate in employment on the basis of race, color, religion, sex (including pregnancy and gender identity), national origin, political affiliation, sexual orientation, marital status, disability, genetic information, age, parental status, military service, or other non-merit factors.

CFHT is located on the island of Hawai'i (also known as 'The Big Island'), and the observatory is located on Maunakea. CFHT conducts all operations with the utmost respect for our historic and unique location. All CFHT employees are expected to treat Maunakea with respect and to acknowledge the privileged position they hold while being present on Maunakea.