Head of Data Science Mission Office

The Space Telescope Science Institute (STScI), operated by the Association of Universities for Research in Astronomy (AURA), is NASA’s science operations center for missions including the Hubble and James Webb Space Telescopes. STScI leads observation planning, data analysis, public engagement, and data archiving for flagship missions. Our staff spans astronomy, engineering, education, IT, communications, and administration—working together to bring space science to the world. STScI is seeking a Leader for the Data Science Mission Office.

Our world-class astronomical research center is based on the Johns Hopkins University Homewood campus in Baltimore, Maryland. Visit our website to learn more about our missions.

This role is eligible for hybrid work and will require three days of on-site presence in our Baltimore office. You must reside in or be willing to relocate to our local market. (MD, DE, VA, PA, DC & WV). Please ONLY use this link to apply:  https://stsci.slideroom.com/#/permalink/program/90572

The Head of the Data Science Mission Office (DSMO) will serve as the senior strategic and scientific leader of the Institute’s data science and AI initiatives. This role shapes and advances the Institute’s vision for leveraging artificial intelligence, machine learning, and advanced data analytics to enable transformative discovery in astronomy.

The Head of DSMO will work with STScI staff and the wider astronomical community to define and drive high-impact initiatives at the intersection of astronomy, data science, engineering and open-source software development. They will lead internal/external initiatives and partnerships to increase data-driven scientific productivity of STScI’s missions, and to innovate in these areas. They will work to expand the scientific value of data holdings, which include the missions STScI directly operates (HST, JWST, Roman and future missions) as well as the multi-mission, multi-wavelength data of the Mikulski Archive for Space Telescopes (MAST), and to lower barriers to scientific discovery. In addition, to leading strategies to enable machine learning and artificial intelligence for scientific research using STScI's data archives and platforms. While ensuring that AI technologies are scientifically rigorous, strategically aligned with the Institute’s mission, and ethically implemented.

Essential Duties & Responsibilities

• Strategic Leadership
• • Develop, implement and communicate a clear vision for the data science strategy for STScI
  • Identify and leverage science-enhancing synergies in data science across STScI missions in collaboration with senior leadership
  • Set priorities to explore and deliver new technologies, services, and infrastructures that advance scientific discovery
  • Strategically identify and advance high-level organizational priorities for data science        
• Research & Science Advancement
• • Enhance research activities, capabilities, and outcomes for STScI science staff to help them adopt new data science technologies
  • Support the broader astronomical community, particularly those working with space missions and archives supported by STScI
  • Dedicate a portion of working time to self-directed research
• Operations & Data Engineering
• • Support improvement of STScI operations and services through modern data management, data engineering, and data science techniques
  • Advance capabilities for enabling analysis of peta-scale data archives by the astronomical community
  • Foster close partnerships among engineering teams, scientists, and the astronomical community
  • Manage the MAST contract and ensure the success of archive initiatives within the purview of that contract
• Stakeholder Engagement & Communication
• • Represent STScI's work to external partners including government agencies (e.g., NASA), advisory and oversight committees, and the scientific community
  • Facilitate consensus from key partners to turn strategic vision into meaningful activities and deliverable results
  • Communicate effectively with individuals, teams, and management throughout STScI, AURA, and associated communities
• Leadership and Management Responsibilities
• • Develop and communicate a clear vision and strategy for the Data Science Mission Office aligned with the Institute's overall
  • Provide leadership and guidance to subordinate managers and staff, fostering a culture of collaboration, innovation, and excellence.
  • Conduct periodic reviews and assessments of Data Science Mission Office policies and procedures.
  • Provide mentorship and learning environments for staff
• Decision Making
• • Make informed and timely decisions on strategic and operational matters, balancing short-term needs with long-term goals.
  • Collaborate with other senior leaders to align decisions with the overall strategic direction of the Institute.
• Budgetary Planning and Resource Allocation
• • Develop and manage Data Science Mission Office budgets, ensuring resources are allocated appropriately to support operational needs and strategic initiatives.
  • Identify opportunities for cost optimization and efficiency
  • Allocate staff and capital resources effectively to meet Data Science Mission Office and organizational objectives.
• Performance Management
• • Establish and monitor key performance indicators (KPIs) to assess the performance of each function within the Data Science Mission
  • Implement performance improvement initiatives as
• Cross-Functional Collaboration
• • Collaborate with other mission and division heads and senior managers to ensure seamless and efficient integration and coordination across the Institute.
  • Foster a culture of interdisciplinary collaboration to address complex organizational challenges.
• Risk Management
• • Identify and assess risks related to Data Science Mission Office
  • Develop and implement risk mitigation strategies to safeguard organizational assets and goals.
• Stakeholder Engagement
• • Build and maintain strong relationships with internal and external stakeholders, including government agencies, partners, and
  • Represent the Data Science Mission Office and STScI in external forums and industry events.

Knowledge

Deep knowledge of astronomical data systems, AI/ML research, and data governance. Understanding of ethical and regulatory frameworks for AI use in scientific contexts. Demonstrated experience in budgetary planning and management. Strong knowledge of relevant regulations, compliance standards, and contractual obligations

Skills

Strong scientific writing, technical communication, and public speaking skills.  Expertise in advanced data analysis, machine learning pipelines, and scientific software development. Strong communication and interpersonal skills. Excellent organizational and planning skills and time management.

Abilities

Ability to synthesize complex scientific and technical domains into a cohesive strategic vision. Successfully navigate institutional, federal, and cross-sector environments with credibility and influence. Inspire collaboration and drive innovation across disciplines.

Education & Experience

• Ph.D. in Astronomy, Astrophysics, Computer Science, Data Science, or a related field.
• Significant research and technical experience applying AI/ML to scientific domains, preferably in astronomy.
• Demonstrated leadership in complex, interdisciplinary initiatives involving data science, AI infrastructure, or strategic technology planning.
• A record of impactful scientific publications and community engagement.

The annual salary range for this title is $210-250K.  The posted salary range represents a general guideline; however, STScI considers a number of factors when determining base salary offers, such as internal pay equity, the scope and responsibilities of the position, the candidate's experience, education, and skill, and current market conditions.

Candidates are asked to submit one PDF that includes a cover letter, resume/ CV and contact information for three references. References will not be contacted until later in the selection process. In your cover letter, please describe your vision for the future of data science in astronomy, and in particular, how you see data science shaping the future of STScI.

Complete applications received by August 31st will receive full consideration.  Reference #: HRC0016182

Please ONLY use this link to apply:  https://stsci.slideroom.com/#/permalink/program/90572

We offer an excellent and comprehensive benefits package, generous retirement, work life balance and a stimulating and diverse work environment. Explore our benefits: http://www.stsci.edu/opportunities/benefits

Individuals needing assistance with the employment process can contact us at 

careers@stsci.edu

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