Data Validation Scientist (Fixed Term)

Fixed-term: The funds for this post are available for 2 years in the first instance. This is an interesting opportunity for a data scientist to work at the Institute of Astronomy (IoA), University of Cambridge, as part of the Gaia team within the data project group at the IoA (CamCEAD). Gaia is a space observatory of the European Space Agency (ESA), launched in 2013. Gaia's key objective is a detailed study of the Milky Way that is revealing our Galaxy's content, dynamics, current state and formation history. The IoA is responsible for the development and operation of the (spectro)-photometric processing system which produces integrated mean and epoch photometry in the G, BP, and RP bands, as well as mean and epoch BP/RP spectra. Beyond their direct release to the scientific community, these core products constitute essential inputs to several downstream DPAC pipelines. The successful candidate will work within the Gaia development and validation team. The main tasks will be in validation of intermediate and final data products, investigations of features discovered in the data and development and testing of updates to the existing code base. The successful candidate will have experience in astronomical data analysis activities and data validation, a good practical knowledge of scientific algorithm development and a PhD degree in a numerate discipline (preferably Astronomy, Physics, Computer Science, Computer Engineering or related field). Candidates are expected to be familiar with the acquisition and reduction of data from large-scale astronomical facilities or surveys and with the use of database and web-based systems. Knowledge of Python/Java and object-oriented programming is required. The ability to work as part of a team and have good communication skills is also required. The post-holder will be required to attend meetings both elsewhere in the UK and overseas, hence possession of a valid passport is necessary. Salary will be Grade 7, £35,608 - £46,049 FTE per annum. In addition to the base salary stated above, the successful candidate for this post will receive an additional 2.5% interim supplement to their pay. Click the 'Apply' button below to register an account with our recruitment system (if you have not already) and apply online. Please ensure that you upload your Curriculum Vitae (CV), cover letter, publications list and research/ technical experience statement (three A4 pages maximum in 11pt font) in the Upload section of the online application. The names and email contact details of three referees are a necessary part of the submission. If short-listed for interview, you should advise your nominated referees that their references will be requested to be received prior to the interview. Informal enquiries are welcomed and should be directed to: Prof. Francesca De Angeli, Research Professor via email at: fda@ast.cam.ac.uk. If you have any queries regarding the application process please contact HR@ast.cam.ac.uk. The closing date for applications is: 23:59 GMT on Thursday 23rd July 2026. The anticipated interview date is: Week commencing 10th August 2026. The anticipated start date of the appointment is 1st October 2026 or as soon as possible thereafter. Please quote reference LG50164 on your application and in any correspondence about this vacancy. The University of Cambridge is a signatory of the San Francisco Declaration on Research Assessment (DORA). DORA recognises the need to improve the ways in which the outputs of scholarly research are evaluated. The University expects candidates to apply the principles of DORA when preparing their applications. We do not use journal level metrics when assessing the quality of research outputs. Applicants should not include journal level metrics, such as the Journal Impact Factor, anywhere in their application materials. More information about DORA, its principles and aims can be found at: https://sfdora.org/ and https://www.research-strategy.admin.cam.ac.uk/researchpolicy/DORA. The University actively supports equality, diversity and inclusion and encourages applications from all sections of society. The University has a responsibility to ensure that all employees are eligible to live and work in the UK.