Nikolaus Volgenau

Operations Scientist Aug 2014 - Nov 2025

Operations, Las Cumbres Observatory

Managed the operations of a global network of professional telescopes and instruments.

• Moderated daily reviews of operational problems and progress toward solutions with a globally-distributed team.

• Identified and implemented operational changes to improve observatory e!ciency and data quality.

• Advised scientists on observing strategies; conveyed research program requirements to all stakeholders.

• Controlled Science Operations team budget: travel, continuing education, hardware/software purchases.

• Managed science proposal review and selection process; coordinated LCO’s international Science Collaboration.

• Reported on telescope network status to LCO Director, team leads, and external Science Steering Committee.

• Created and maintained documentation for observatory’s external users and internal staff.

University of Maryland

Field of study: Astronomy
Degree: PhD

Thesis: Velocity Structures of Deeply Embedded Young Stellar Objects