help

Careers in Radio Astronomy

-- | August 23, 2012

Question: Hello,I am currently a Final Year Electronics Engineering student at the Mumbai University. I’ve been a life long Astronomy enthusiast and have attended a few courses/lectures related to the celestial science through which I’ve gained considerable insight into the discipline and continue to enhance my knowledge and understanding on a daily basis. Through my BE curriculum I’ve developed interest in Electromagnetic theory, Antenna fundamentals and Digital signal processing ,and with so I’ve decided to pursue higher education in Radio Astronomy. I would like to know from a professional Radio Astronomer the qualities that are essential for a successful career as a Radio Astronomer. Also which Universities in the US should I consider for a MS degree with a view of pursuing a career in Radio Astronomy. Thanking you in anticipation. — Sankalp Prakash Pawar

Answer: As radio astronomy is a specialty discipline within the general science of astronomy and astrophysics, your question is really about how to pursue a career in astronomy. See the Careers in Astronomy post for links to information on how to pursue a career in astronomy.

Jeff Mangum

The National Radio Astronomy Observatory is a facility of the U.S. National Science Foundation operated under cooperative agreement by Associated Universities, Inc.
	Founded in 1956, the NRAO provides state-of-the-art radio telescope facilities for use by the international scientific community. NRAO telescopes are open to all astronomers regardless of institutional or national affiliation. Observing time on NRAO telescopes is available on a competitive basis to qualified scientists after evaluation of research proposals on the basis of scientific merit, the capability of the instruments to do the work, and the availability of the telescope during the requested time. NRAO also provides both formal and informal programs in education and public outreach for teachers, students, the general public, and the media.
	The U.S. National Science Foundation (NSF) is an independent federal agency created by Congress in 1950 "to promote the progress of science; to advance the national health, prosperity, and welfare; to secure the national defense..."
	AUI collaborates with the scientific community and research sponsors to plan, build, and operate cutting-edge facilities. We cultivate excellence, deliver value, enhance education, and engage the public.