ESA Archival Research Visitor Programme

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Department: Space Science & Operations
City: Madrid or Noordwijk
Country: Spain or Netherlands
Contact Person: Guido De Marchi
Contact Email: [email protected]
Institution: European Space Agency
Application Due Date: Friday, April 30 2021

ESA Archival Research Visitor Programme

To increase the scientific return from its space science missions, the European Space Agency (ESA) welcomes applications from scientists interested in pursuing research projects based on data publicly available in the ESA Space Science Archives (http://www.cosmos.esa.int/web/esdc). 

The ESA Archival Research Visitor Programme is open to scientists, at all career levels, affiliated with institutes in ESA Member States and Collaborating States. Early-career scientists (within 10 years of the PhD) are particularly encouraged to apply. PhD students are also welcome to apply through their supervisors.

During their stay, visiting scientists will have access to archives and mission specialists for help with the retrieval, calibration, and analysis of archival data. In principle, all areas of space research covered by ESA science missions can be supported.

Residence lasts typically between one and three months, also distributed over multiple visits. Research projects can be carried out at ESAC (Madrid, Spain) and at ESTEC (Noordwijk, Netherlands). To offset the expenses incurred by visitors, ESA covers travel costs from and to the home institution and provides support for lodging expenses and meals.

Applications received before 30 April 2021 will be considered for visits in autumn/winter (2021/2022).

For further details, including areas of research and contact information, please refer to:

http://www.cosmos.esa.int/web/esdc/visitor-programme

or write to the programme coordinators at [email protected] 

Postdoctoral Researcher

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City: Houston
State/Province: TX
Country: USA
Contact Person: German Martinez
Contact Email: [email protected]
Institution: Lunar and Planetary Institute / USRA
Application Due Date: Monday, March 15 2021

The Lunar and Planetary Institute (LPI) in Houston, TX, run by the Universities Space Research Association (USRA), invites applications for a Postdoctoral Fellow in Radiative Transfer Modeling in Planetary Atmospheres

The selected candidate will join Dr. Germán Martínez’ group on the Mars Environmental Dynamics Analyzer (MEDA) science team of NASA’s Mars 2020 mission, and will lead analyses of measurements made by the Thermal Infrared Sensor (TIRS), one of the six environmental sensors comprising MEDA. TIRS is the first in situ Martian infrared radiometer including upward- and downward-looking channels, and it will measure the upward and downward thermal infrared radiation at the surface, the reflected solar radiation at the surface, the surface brightness temperature, and the near-surface vertical temperature profile. To gain a broader insight into space missions and to expand their network, the selected candidate will participate in operations planning for the MEDA instrument, as well as in weekly science meetings with members from other instruments. To enrich their background in preparation for the next working stage, the selected candidate will be encouraged to propose for external funding and participate in NASA grant review panels. Moreover, the selected candidate is expected to contribute to public engagement events at the LPI.

Applicants should have a recent Ph.D. in Planetary Science, Physics, or a related field. The selected candidate will contribute to the development of a numerical model capable of spectrally simulating longwave radiation fluxes at the Martian surface to maximize the scientific return of TIRS’ measurements, in particular of the downward thermal infrared radiation at the surface (i.e., the atmospheric thermal forcing). The selected candidate will lead their own investigations, as well as collaborate with others within Dr. Martínez’ group. Required expertise includes proficiency in a common radiative-transfer programming language (e.g., IDL, MATLAB, Fortran), and a publication record in relevant or similar studies. Previous experience with Mars-related research is preferred, but not required. 

The position is for two years with a possible one-year extension. 

Interested applicants should apply to the posting at https://www.usra.edu/careers; application material submitted outside of this platform will not be considered. The required application material includes: (1) cover letter evidencing the qualifications of the applicant to this position, (2) curriculum vitae with list of publications, (3) two- to three-page statement of research interests and plans describing the candidate’s expected independent research program at the LPI, and (4) list of at least three professional references. Application material should be uploaded as a single document. Review of candidates will begin immediately; however, applications will be accepted until the position is filled. Questions can be addressed to Dr. Germán Martínez ([email protected]).

Regards,

Germán

Planetary Astronomer

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Current state: Approved
Department: PDS Ring-Moon Systems Node
City: Mountain View
State/Province: CA
Country: USA
Contact Person: Armine Saroian
Contact Email: [email protected]
Institution: SETI Institute
Application Due Date: Friday, January 15 2021

SETI INSTITUTE

POSITION DESCRIPTION

Position Title:                                      Planetary Astronomer

FLSA Status:                                        Full-Time, Exempt

Reports to:                                           NODE Manager

Location:                                              Mountain View, CA     

                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                    

Position Summary:

The SETI Institute is seeking a Planetary Astronomer to support the work of the Ring-Moon Systems Node (RMS) of NASA’s Planetary Data System (PDS). The successful applicant will be an integral part of the RMS Node Team, which shares responsibility for archiving, augmenting, cataloging, and distributing key data sets from NASA’s missions to the outer planets. The PDS ensures that the entire community of planetary scientists has seamless access to NASA’s archive of planetary data. The RMS Node’s primary focus is on data sets relevant to planetary systems in the outer solar system, including the rings and moons of the outer planets, atmospheric research, and astrogeology.

The astronomer will focus primarily on ongoing efforts to enhance the scientific usability of RMS data sets, which include those from the Cassini, Voyager, Galileo, and New Horizons missions, as well as those from the Hubble Space Telescope and Earth-based observatories. We seek a curious and creative individual who is eager to work with data from diverse instruments and missions. The curation of planetary data requires someone who is able to understand the data’s scientific importance, assess the data’s validity, converse knowledgeably with fellow scientists, and confirm that documentation and descriptive metadata are sufficient for the needs of current and future scientists.

The astronomer will collaborate closely with the Node Manager, Dr Matt Tiscareno, on all aspects of RMS Node planning and task management. They will understudy with longtime RMS Deputy Manager, Dr Mitch Gordon, and prepare to carry on his work as he approaches retirement.

This is a full-time position with full benefits. However, the astronomer will be encouraged to seek additional research funding on any topic of their choosing including, but not limited to, topics related to the Node’s extensive data holdings. The position offers substantial growth potential for applicants who are able to demonstrate mastery of the key requirements.

Responsibilities:

  • Work with NASA’s planetary missions and other data providers on the design, preparation, submission, and peer review of archived data sets.
  • Design and maintain PDS “dictionaries”, which are used to capture the key information about astronomical observations.
  • Develop data processing pipelines to validate existing data and metadata, and convert it into the new, modern “PDS4” standard.
  • Generate and assemble supporting metadata so the data products can be integrated into OPUS, our online search engine (see https://opus.pds-rings.seti.org).
  • Work within the larger PDS community to develop and enhance archiving standards.
  • Represent the Node at PDS working groups, project meetings, scientific meetings, and to NASA.
  • Help with website content, hardware management, and research tool development.
  • Participate in team discussions about the latest results in planetary astronomy and related fields.

Requirements:

  • A Ph.D. or equivalent career experience in planetary astronomy, astrophysics, physics, or a closely related field. 
  • Experience in scientific data analysis and in writing research papers for peer review.
  • A personal and demonstrable scientific interest in planetary systems is highly desirable.
  • Experience with computer programming for scientific applications is required. Proficiency with the Python programming language is highly desirable.
  • Excellent oral and written communication skills.
  • Must be detail oriented, pro-active, and flexible.
  • Should have the initiative to work independently and as a team player.
  • Ability to multi-task in a fast-paced environment.
  • Willing to accept major responsibilities and able to perform under pressure.

Diversity and Equity

All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, or national origin.

The SETI Institute is an Affirmative Action Employer and members of underrepresented communities and demographics are particularly encouraged to apply, including women, people of color, LGBTQ and people with disabilities.

Employment Details:

Applicants should be prepared to establish residence in the San Francisco Bay Area by the end of Summer 2021, within a comfortable commuting distance of Mountain View, California.

 

 

Postdoctoral Fellow Cometary Atmospheres

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Current state: Approved
Department: Physics Department
City: Aurburn
State/Province: AL
Country: USA
Contact Person: Dennis Bodewits
Contact Email: [email protected]
Institution: Auburn University
Application Due Date: Sunday, November 15 2020

Post-doctoral research position in the Physics Department at Auburn University

The Physics Department at Auburn University invites applicants for a post-doctoral research position within the Atomic, Molecular and Optical Physics group in the field of cometary atmospheres.

The successful candidate will analyze observations of comets acquired with instruments onboard space telescopes, including the Chandra X-ray observatory, the Neil Gehrels-Swift Observatory, and the new NICER instrument onboard the International Space Station. The goal of this project is to connect results from laboratory experiments conducted at Auburn and elsewhere with remote observations and models of comets and their interaction with the solar wind, and to identify atomic and molecular processes that alter the inner coma.

Familiarity with planetary science and/or atomic and molecular physics is preferred.  Substantial familiarity with a commonly-used scientific programming language (e.g. Python, Matlab, IDL) is highly desirable.

The contact for this activity is Prof. Dennis Bodewits ([email protected]).

The College of Sciences and Mathematics at Auburn University located in Auburn AL (http://www.auburn.edu/cosam) is seeking candidates for the position of postdoctoral fellow in the sciences and mathematics.  From time-to-time, postdoctoral positions become available under a variety of research grants and projects in the college.  We are seeking applications from individuals with a PhD in any one area such as astronomy, physics, chemistry, geosciences, or related fields.  The candidates selected for these positions must be able to meet eligibility requirements to work in the United States at the time appointment is scheduled to begin and continue working legally for the proposed term of employment, and must possess excellent written and interpersonal communication skills.  The position is available as a three-year, full-time 12-month appointment, with renewal possible based on performance, need, and/or funding for a maximum of four years.  These are non-tenure-track positions.  Salary will be commensurate with education and experience.  Review of applications will begin November 15th, 2020 and continue throughout the year as the positions become available.  Please upload curriculum vitae, statement of research interests, along with a list of three references and contact information at:  https://www.auemployment.com/postings/19536

Auburn University is an EEO/Vet/Disability Employer and committed to building a diverse and inclusive community.

Two Faculty Positions in Exoplanets and Planetary Sciences

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Department: Department of Science and Engineering
City: Santiago
Country: Chile
Contact Person: Andres Jordan
Contact Email: [email protected]
Institution: Universidad Adolfo Ibanez
Application Due Date: Sunday, November 01 2020

The Faculty of Engineering and Sciences (FES) of Universidad Adolfo Ibáñez (UAI) in Santiago, Chile, seeks applications for up to two open rank faculty positions in the area of exoplanet and planetary science beginning as soon as March 1, 2021.  All candidates in exoplanet or planetary science, broadly defined, are invited to apply. We are particularly interested in the following areas: planetary interiors, atmospheres, habitability, and studies of solar system objects. For one of the positions we are looking for applicants in the area of theoretical or computational astrophysics. Candidates should have a demonstrated potential or ability to pursue a high impact research program.

The successful candidates will join Professors Rafael Brahm, Andres Jordan and Gijs Mulders  at the newly created Astrophysics group at FES/UAI focused on exoplanet and planetary science. The chosen candidates are expected to teach undergraduate and graduate courses in Physics, Astronomy, and related fields, in Spanish and/or English. Candidates do not need to be fluent in Spanish at the moment of applying. The successful candidate will have access to 10% of all telescope time on major facilities in Chile, including VLT, ALMA, Gemini, Magellan, and other telescopes in the country, as well as access to future facilities such as the GMT and E-ELT. Salary will be commensurate with qualifications and experience. As a reference, an Assistant Professor should expect an annual remuneration ranging between 36 and 48 million CLP (approximately 46,000 and 62,000 USD at the current exchange rate, respectively). This salary does not include potential additions from grants or research contracts.

Applications require: a cover letter, a complete curriculum vitae, and a description (5 pages maximum) of research and teaching interests. Contact information for at least three letters of recommendation must also be submitted. Applicants should apply by submitting the above materials as a single pdf file to <[email protected]> with the subject “Job Position in Exoplanet and Planetary Sciences”. Applications should be submitted by November 1, 2020 to ensure full consideration.

All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to color, religion, sex, national origin, disability status or any other characteristic protected by law. At FES we believe that diversity broadens our research scope and enhances the quality of our education, so we highly encourage women, international scholars and minorities to apply for these positions.

Research Scientist II, Planetary and Exoplanetary Atmospheres

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Department: Planetary and Exoplanetary Atmospheres
City: Pasadena
State/Province: CA
Category: ,
Country: United States
Contact Person: Cheryl Cooperstein
Contact Email: [email protected]
Institution: Jet Propulsion Laboratory
Application Due Date: Monday, November 23 2020

The Jet Propulsion Laboratory, California Institute of Technology invites applications for a staff Scientist in the Planetary and Exoplanetary Atmospheres group in the Planetary Science Section at JPL. In this position, you will perform observational studies of giant planet atmospheres from ground-based and airborne facilities and pursue research into the temporal and spatial structure of cloud and gas abundance distributions in the upper atmospheres of both the Gas and Ice Giants. It is expected that the successful candidate will develop an independently funded research program and will pursue new lines of research focusing on the chemistry and dynamics of the atmospheres of planets in the solar system.

 

This position requires the following qualifications:

  • Ph.D. degree in planetary science, planetary physics, astronomy, atmospheric chemistry or related field.
  • Demonstrated experience with telescopic observations of planetary atmospheres, including those of the Outer Planets (Ice Giants and Gas Giants), particularly as it relates to support of active missions and missions in development.  Familiarity with operating procedures and principles of large ground-based and/or airborne telescopes, and success in obtaining telescopic observing time
  • Peer-reviewed publications in high-impact journals in the aforementioned fields.
  • Demonstrated professional reputation as a productive researcher with a track record of publications in peer-reviewed journals and presentations at national and/or international conferences.

The following qualifications are preferred:

  • 3+ years’ minimum experience following the Ph.D. in research in planetary science, planetary physics, astronomy, atmospheric chemistry or related field.
  • Experience using numerical methods to retrieve temperature, cloud and gas abundance distributions in the atmosphere of the Ice Giants (Uranus/Neptune) and Gas Giants (Jupiter/Saturn).
  • Familiarity with existing software packages for retrieval of temperature profiles, cloud properties and gaseous abundance distribution
  • History of writing successful external research funding proposals
  • Excellent communication skills, with the ability to communicate complex scientific concepts to a broad scientific community and the public.
  • Prior involvement in activities of service to the community, including, but not limited to, review boards, telescope time allocation panels, proposal and manuscript review.

To view the full description of this unique opportunity (including EEO statement and NASA requirements) and apply, please visit: http://jpl.jobs/jobs/2020-12485-Research-Scientist-II-Planetary-and-Exoplanetary-Atmospheres. Applications received by November 23, 2020, will receive full consideration.

Postdoc with MAVEN’s Imaging UltraViolet Spectrograph Team

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Department: Laboratory for Atmospheric and Space Physics (LASP)
City: Boulder
State/Province: CO
Country: USA
Contact Person: Nick Schneider
Contact Email: [email protected]
Institution: U. Colorado, Boulder
Application Due Date: Sunday, November 15 2020

The Laboratory for Atmospheric and Space Physics (LASP) at the University of Colorado Boulder seeks a talented scientist for the Imaging Ultraviolet Spectrograph (IUVS) team on the  MAVEN mission to Mars. IUVS is making important discoveries in Mars atmosphere, including escape and evolution, aurora, nightglow, photochemistry, composition, dynamics and cloud formation. 

Key Responsibilities: Observational studies of the Mars atmosphere through ultraviolet spectroscopy and imaging.  Scientific analysis of data obtained, publication of results in scientific journals, conference presentations. Support for mission/instrument operations and observation planning. Operation and enhancement of automated data processing pipelines. Mentoring student researchers.

Qualifications: Ph.D in Planetary Science, Astronomy, Atmospheric Science, Physics or similar. Coding proficiency in python, IDL or similar. Skill with data analysis, image processing, statistics. Familiarity with Mars atmospheric science, including one or more of the following: atmospheric structure, dayglow, nightglow, aurora, photochemistry, ultraviolet spectroscopy, atmospheric evolution, climate, waves and tides, General Circulation Models, numerical simulation.

Please see https://jobs.colorado.edu/jobs/jobDetail?jobId=21086 for more on CU/Boulder, LASP, benefits. We are committed to building a culturally diverse community of faculty, staff, and students contributing to an inclusive campus environment. Application review begins on 15 November. Remote work during the pandemic is negotiable. Contact [email protected]

Postdoctoral Researcher with the MAVEN Imaging Ultraviolet Spectrograph Team

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Current state: Review
Department: Laboratory for Atmospheric and Space Physics (LASP)
City: Boulder
State/Province: CO
Country: USA
Contact Person: Nick Schneider
Contact Email: [email protected]
Institution: University of Colorado Boulder
Application Due Date: Sunday, November 15 2020

Summary. The Laboratory for Atmospheric and Space Physics (LASP) at the University of Colorado Boulder is seeking a talented scientist to work with the Imaging Ultraviolet Spectrograph (IUVS) team on the MAVEN mission. The IUVS team has made important discoveries in the areas of Mars atmosphere including escape and evolution, aurora, nightglow, photochemistry, composition, dynamics and cloud formation, and more discoveries are anticipated.  The team is led by Nick Schneider.

Key Responsibilities: Observational studies of the Mars atmosphere through ultraviolet spectroscopy and imaging.  Scientific analysis of data obtained, publication of results in appropriate scientific journals and presentation at conferences. Support for mission/instrument operations and observation planning. Operation and enhancement of automated data processing pipelines including retrievals of atmospheric properties. Mentoring of graduate and undergraduate student researchers.

Position Requirements: Ph.D in Planetary Science, Astronomy, Atmospheric Science, Physics or a related field. Coding proficiency in python, IDL or other scientific computing languages.

Desired Qualifications: Skill with data analysis, image processing and statistics. Familiarity with Mars atmospheric science, including one or more of the following: atmospheric structure, dayglow, nightglow, aurora, photochemistry, ultraviolet spectroscopy, atmospheric evolution, climate, waves and tides, familiarity with General Circulation Models and numerical simulation.

Please see https://jobs.colorado.edu/jobs/jobDetail?jobId=21086 for additional information about the University, LASP, benefits, etc. The University of Colorado Boulder is committed to building a culturally diverse community of faculty, staff, and students dedicated to contributing to an inclusive campus environment. We are an Equal Opportunity employer, including veterans and individuals with disabilities. Review of applications begins on 15 December. Start date is negotiable. Remote work during the pandemic is negotiable. Contact [email protected] with questions.

Four researcher positions related to Mars atmospheric science at NSSTC, UAE University

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Department: National Space Science and Technology Center
City: Al Ain
State/Province: Abu Dhabi
Country: United Arab Emirates
Contact Person: Roland Young
Contact Email: [email protected]
Institution: United Arab Emirates University
Application Due Date: Sunday, September 06 2020

The National Space Science and Technology Center (NSSTC) at UAE University, Al Ain, United Arab Emirates invites applications for four researcher positions (two Senior Researchers and two Postdoctoral Fellows) related to Mars atmospheric science, to join NSSTC’s Planetary Science group, part of its Earth and Planetary Science Unit.

For full details of each position, to see the required application materials for each one, and to apply, please search for “Mars” at https://jobs.uaeu.ac.ae => Postings => Job Title. Full consideration will be given to applications submitted by 6 September 2020, but the positions will remain open until filled.

Senior Researcher in Emirates Mars Mission related science: We seek an experienced scientist to propose and lead their own research program related to the Emirates Mars Mission (EMM), using EMM’s publicly-available dataset, and complementary to existing expertise within the group. The group’s existing Mars expertise is in planetary climate modelling, data assimilation, the dust cycle, and other physical processes relevant to Mars’ lower atmosphere and climate, so the Senior Researcher’s expertise could be in the upper atmosphere, surface or subsurface, polar science, ionosphere, atmospheric chemistry, solar-planetary interactions, or some other topic relevant to EMM.

Postdoctoral Fellow in Mars atmospheric science: This will focus on Mars dust storms, starting with imagery and dust climatological data from past and existing Mars missions, to gauge the feasibility of extracting information about Mars dust storms from such observations. Once EMM begins its science phase, the researcher will use EMM observations as quantitative constraints on key parameters related to the formation of dust storms, such as dust optical depth, atmospheric and surface temperatures, surface winds, etc. to generate a comprehensive database of Mars dust storms.

Senior Researcher in Earth and Mars atmospheric retrievals: The main goal of this position is to build expertise within the UAE in the area of planetary atmospheric retrievals. We seek an experienced scientist with expertise in UV/visible/IR and thermal IR/microwave atmospheric retrievals to lead a program building local Emirati expertise in atmospheric retrievals, which will involve software development, retrieval product generation, student training, and scientific analysis. The main scientific goals are (1) to convert EMM calibrated spectra into atmospheric quantities, using EMM’s publicly available dataset, building expertise among Emirati students and researchers in the methods and mathematical principles of atmospheric retrievals, radiative transfer modelling, and scientific programming, by involving them at all stages of the process, and (2) to contribute to NSSTC research and development projects in Earth observation where atmospheric retrievals are required.

Postdoctoral Fellow in Earth and Mars atmospheric retrievals: We seek a candidate with expertise in UV/visible/IR and/or thermal IR/microwave atmospheric retrievals to work alongside the Senior Researcher above, working towards the same goals.

In all cases there may also be the possibility to be involved in teaching UAEU’s new MSc in Space Science course, which is anticipated to run for the first time in Spring 2021.

NSSTC is a research and development institute of some 50 staff located on the UAE University campus in Al Ain, United Arab Emirates, about 90 minutes’ drive from Abu Dhabi and Dubai. UAEU is the largest and highest-ranked public university in the UAE.

The Center was established jointly by UAEU, the UAE Space Agency, and the UAE Telecommunications Regulatory Authority (ICT-Fund), motivated by UAEU’s desire to strengthen its role in and contribute to the needs of the nation in space science and technology, and to become a space science and technology hub for the region. NSSTC focuses on research and development, higher education, and community outreach. The Center’s priorities are three-fold: excellence in space science, leadership in space technology, and providing innovative solutions to a broad spectrum of societal challenges.

Currently nearing completion at UAEU is NSSTC’s Assembly, Integration, and Testing facility for satellites up to 250 kg, with the capability of building multiple satellites at a time. It will also support UAEU student CubeSat projects. The facility will include a cleanroom, thermal vacuum chamber, vibration system, and anechoic chamber. Once complete, this facility will also include a ground station and mission control. The Center’s other facilities include Global Navigation Satellite System and In Space Resources Utilisation laboratories, and NSSTC’s research staff also have access to UAEU’s supercomputing cluster.

NSSTC has expertise in spacecraft communications and precision positioning, on-board real-time systems, space situational awareness, global navigation systems, space resource utilization, geospatial information systems, Earth observation, and planetary science.

Postdoctoral Researcher

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City: Houston
State/Province: TX
Country: USA
Contact Person: German Martinez
Contact Email: [email protected]
Institution: The Lunar and Planetary Institute (LPI), run by the Universities Space Research Association (USRA)
Application Due Date: Saturday, August 01 2020

The Lunar and Planetary Institute (LPI), run by the Universities Space Research Association (USRA), invites applications for a Postdoctoral Fellow in Radiative Transfer Modeling in Planetary Atmospheres.

The successful candidate will join Dr. Germán Martínez on the Mars Environmental Dynamics Analyzer (MEDA) science team of NASA’s Mars 2020 mission, and will participate in analysis and interpretation of measurements made by the Thermal Infrared Sensor (TIRS), one of the six environmental sensors comprising MEDA. The successful candidate may also participate in operations planning for the MEDA instrument.

Applicants should have a recent Ph.D. in Planetary Science, Physics, or a related field. The successful candidate will develop a numerical model capable of spectrally simulating longwave radiation fluxes at the Martian surface to maximize the scientific return of TIRS. Previous experience with Mars-related research is preferred, but not required. The position is for two years with a possible one-year extension.

Interested applicants should apply to the posting at https://usracareers.silkroad.com/. The required application material includes: (1) cover letter evidencing the qualifications of the applicant to this position, (2) curriculum vitae with list of publications, (3) two- to three-page statement of research interests and plans describing the candidate’s expected independent research program at the LPI, and (4) list of at least three professional references. Application material should be uploaded as a single document. Review of candidates will begin on August 1, 2020; however, applications will be accepted until the position is filled. Questions can be addressed to Dr. Germán Martínez ([email protected]).