Assistant Professor, Mizusawa VLBI Observatory, National Astronomical Observatory of Japan (NAOJ)

The National Astronomical Observatory of Japan (NAOJ) has been playing a key role in the forefront of astronomical research worldwide, as demonstrated in the construction and operation of large-scale astronomical facilities as well as in the development of space-based instruments, in the effort to promote cutting-edge astronomy utilizing these advanced telescopes. Mizusawa VLBI Observatory (hereafter the Observatory) of the NAOJ has played a key role in advancing radio astronomy through VLBI arrays. During the current mid-term period (2022–2028), the Observatory is actively engaged in the operation of the East Asian VLBI Network (EAVN) and related VLBI facilities, while also conducting cutting-edge VLBI research and development such as Event Horizon Telescope (EHT) and Black Hole Explorer (BHEX) in collaboration with the domestic and international astronomical communities. Looking toward the era of next-generation international large-scale interferometers such as the Square Kilometre Array Observatory (SKAO) and next-generation Very Large Array (ngVLA), the Observatory is formulating a strategic vision to advance global VLBI through international collaboration. At present and for the foreseeable future, the Observatory’s focus is the activities on SKAO’s Assembly, Integration and Verification (AIV), with aims not only to directly contribute to the SKA project but also to build capacity for future participation in international large-scale radio astronomy projects such as the ngVLA and other future international projects. Together with the SKA1 Promotion Group, established as a sub-project within the Observatory, the Observatory is committed to fostering the next generation of researchers who, through their experience in SKAO-related activities, will go on to take leading roles in advancing both NAOJ-wide initiatives and major international projects.

Work content and job description
The job description of the successful candidate is expected as follows, though details are subject to the candidate’s experience and expertise:1) Direct contribution to future large-scale projects (approximately 50%, for the time being)
In the coming years, the successful candidate will be responsible for making direct international contributions to SKAO’s AIV activities. In the near term, this will involve extended stays at SKAO construction and operations sites, demonstrating Japan's presence and contributing to the project. The candidate will also be expected to coordinate international activities related to AIV and, potentially, the SKA Regional Centre Network (SRCNet), as well as support liaison activities with the SKAO Headquarters, working closely with the Lead of the SKA1 Promotion Group. Over the longer term, the successful candidate may be asked to contribute to other major international astronomy projects.
2) Individual research based on long-wavelength radio observations (approximately 35%)
The candidate will conduct cutting-edge research based on their own research interest by utilizing facilities related to the Observatory including future large-scale radio interferometers such as SKAO and its precursor and pathfinder instruments. This may include theoretical studies based on observational data. Experience with, or aspirations to contribute to, future VLBI initiatives including SKA -VLBI, Global -VLBI, Space -VLBI, and ngVLA -LBA would be an advantage.
3) Contributions to the Observatory, NAOJ, and SOKENDAI (approximately 15%)
The successful candidate will contribute to the Observatory and the entire NAOJ through committee works and public outreach activities, and also contribute to graduate school education at SOKENDAI via lectures and supervising graduate students.
(Scope of possible changes) Research and teaching activities designated by NINS / NAOJ

Work experience
A working knowledge of the principles of radio interferometry; and
Other Requirement: To have achieved internationally recognized research or engineering results in the field of expertise, and also have high-level communication skill to promote large international collaboration.

Various systems
Pay increase system :
Available. Once a year in accordance with the performance review.

Insurance
Employees' Health Insurance :
Available. MEXT Mutual Aid Association.

Measures for preventing passive smoking at the workplace
Smoking is prohibited on the premises excluding designated outdoor smoking areas.

Attached documents
Other online application forms
(*To be prepared in English. Any other languages will not be accepted.)
(1) A cover letter
(2) A curriculum vitae
(3) Publications list (Separate refereed and non-refereed papers)
(4) A summary of your past research activities, including international collaborations
(5) Your commitment and plan to fulfill the duties (including your research plan as needed)
(6) Your address (e-mail and phone) for prompt contact and the e-mail address of your current supervisor or line manager, and
(7) Three reference letters. All reference letters must be prepared by faculty/staff with tenured positions. Reference letters from multiple countries are preferred. Please ask your references to upload their letters directly using the URL indicated in [How to Submit an Application] before the closing date for application. Applicants are responsible for ensuring that the letters are submitted before the closing date for application.

Selection
Candidates selected in the final shortlist may be interviewed by the selection committee either in person or online. NAOJ will not cover any expenses associated with the interview.