Job Description
The non-profit American Association of Variable Star Observers (AAVSO) has begun a search for a volunteer Editor-in-chief for its research publication Journal of the American Association of Variable Star Observers (JAAVSO). The JAAVSO is an electronic publication, which content is acknowledged in the Astrophysics Data System (ADS).
The AAVSO is an international non-profit organization of variable star observers whose mission is to enable anyone, anywhere, to participate in scientific discovery through variable star astronomy. Its mission is accomplished through the observation and analysis of variable stars, through maintaining a database of variable star observations for access by the astronomical community, through forging strong relations between amateur and professional astronomers, and by promoting scientific research, education and public outreach using variable star data.
The JAAVSO has been published since 1972. It is a research publication dedicated to variable star astronomy and related topics. The JAAVSO is a refereed publication, open to any and all amateur and professional members of the variable star research and observation community, as well as related scholarly groups such as computer and information scientists, historians, and educators. Manuscripts originating from students are encouraged. Additional information on the journal is available at https://www.aavso.org/apps/jaavso/
Responsibilities
The JAAVSO Editor-in-chief has responsibility for the content, quality, and visibility of the JAAVSO, ensuring the rapid editorial processing of the manuscripts submitted to the JAAVSO.
The JAAVSO Editor-in-chief will maintain an active professional research presence and maintain professional contacts with variable star researchers.
The JAAVSO Editor-in-chief will represent and promote the JAAVSO at astronomical meetings and conferences, invite publications of scientific results, when appropriate.
Qualifications
- A PhD or equivalent experience in Astronomy, Astrophysics, or a closely related field.
- Active, respected, recognized expertise in variable star astronomy, with a strong record of scholarly publishing.
- A demonstrated knowledge of the scholarly publishing process.
- Excellent verbal, written and interpersonal skills.
Application Process
Formal applications should include the following documents which are to be submitted to Dr. Stella Kafka, at the e-mail address aavso@aavso.org (please use subject line “JAAVSO Editor-in-chief”)
- A cover letter which includes relevant experience, and an explanation why the position of JAAVSO Editor is of interest.
- A current CV.
- A complete list of publications over the past 10 years.
- A vision statement for the JAAVSO (no more than 2 pages).
The position will be open until filled; application reviews will begin in Feb 1, 2019. Projected start date October, 2019
The Position
Please note that the position of JAAVSO Editor-in-chief is a volunteer position. Inquiries and correspondence should be addressed to Dr. Kafka at aavso@aavso.org. No phone calls please. The AAVSO is an Equal Opportunity, Affirmative Action organization. Minorities, women, veterans and individuals with disabilities are encouraged to apply. For more information on the AAVSO and its mission, visit www.aavso.org.