Astrophysicist Smithsonian Astrophysical Observatory The Smithsonian Astrophysical Observatory is part of the largest and most diverse astrophysical institution in the world, where the staff carries out a broad program of research in astronomy, astrophysics, and earth and space sciences. This is the position of Astrophysicist in the High Energy Astrophysics Division within the Chandra Director’s Office (CDO). CDO has primary responsibility for selecting the science program for Chandra, including organization of the annual Call for Proposals, the proposal Peer Review, and all associated documentation and software.