Senior Astronomical Data Scientist

Job Summary This role supports NASA flagship space

science missions by advancing astronomical data analysis and

visualization tools used by the global research community. The

position combines product ownership responsibilities with hands-on

scientific software development, focusing on Python-based analysis

tools and Jupyter notebook environments designed for complex

astronomical datasets. The primary responsibility is serving as a

Product Owner for a Scrum team developing data analysis tools and

notebooks for astronomers. This includes setting priorities,

defining product vision and goals, translating scientific

requirements into technical specifications, and acting as the main

liaison between stakeholders and the development team. The role

also involves active engagement with the astronomy community to

gather feedback and promote tool adoption through outreach,

conferences, and meetings. In addition, the position contributes

directly to software and algorithm development, user support,

training, and improvements to software engineering processes. Work

includes developing advanced data visualization solutions,

contributing to open-source scientific Python packages, and

building scalable cloud-accessible Jupyter notebook workflows.

Development efforts may span image processing, spectroscopy,

photometry, astrometry, signal processing, modeling, statistics,

and numerical simulations. Key Responsibilities Drive product

success through close collaboration with software developers

Translate scientific and mission needs into clear product and

technical requirements Serve as the primary point of contact

between stakeholders and the development team Prioritize, maintain,

and manage the product backlog Promote data analysis tools through

community engagement and outreach Design, develop, test, and deploy

Python-based scientific software Develop and maintain Jupyter

notebooks focused on real-world scientific use cases Qualifications

Experience working with astronomical data and understanding user

needs from a data pipeline and analysis perspective Experience with

space-based observatory data is a plus Strong Python skills,

including performance optimization for large datasets Experience

with unit testing and test-driven development practices Education

Bachelors degree in Astronomy, Physics, or a related field Advanced

degree preferred, with 8+ years of experience in astronomical

research or observatory science support Background in astronomy or

scientific software development within a research environment is

highly valued