Category: Laboratory

NanoSIMS Research Scientist

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Department: Astromaterials Research & Exploration Science Directorate
City: Houston
State/Province: TX
Category: , ,
Country: USA
Institution: NASA Johnson Space Center / Jacobs - University of Texas - El Paso
Application Due Date: Tuesday, May 18 2021
Web Link: https://jacobs.taleo.net/careersection/ex/jobdetail.ftl?job=ADV0000VQ&tz=GMT-06%3A00&tzname=America/Chicago

Jacobs invites applicants for a Research Scientist to support the Astromaterials Research & Exploration Science Directorate (ARES) at NASA’s Johnson Space Center (JSC) in the field of cosmochemistry and planetary science, and provide support for NASA human and robotic missions. Research in cosmochemistry and presolar grains will be conducted by analyzing astromaterial samples using the NanoSIMS. New techniques will be developed in isotopic analyses of astromaterials and analogs that advance NanoSIMS capabilities. 

Required skills include:

  • Must have at least 5 years of experience operating a NanoSIMS instrument as an independent user.
  • Experience working with geologic samples, in particular primitive chondrites, interplanetary dust particles, and their components, and conducting independent research on these samples.
  • Experience working in a laboratory environment preparing astromaterial samples, conducting analyses, summarizing results, preparing reports for internal and external use, writing abstracts for submission to national and international meetings, writing proposals for funding, and contributing to the preparation of manuscripts for publication in peer-reviewed journals.
  • Must have knowledge of the theory and practice of isotopic analyses of geologic samples and data reduction.

A Ph.D. and at least two additional years of relevant laboratory experience is highly preferred. The most competitive candidates will demonstrate previous experience with laboratory management and leadership. The following qualifications are desired:

  • Direct NanoSIMS experience performing both spot and image mode analyses of numerous isotopic systems.
  • Additional experience with electron beam instruments (SEM, EPMA, TEM, and/or FIB) is a plus.
  • Experience with analytical technique development and innovation.
  • Experience with analysis of presolar grains and other fine-grained materials by SIMS.
  • Experience with astromaterials, and generally irreplaceable samples is highly preferred.
  • Experience developing and using matrix matched standards to improve the precision of isotope measurements.
  • The most competitive candidates will also demonstrate how their research goals will contribute broadly across and complement research topics within the Science Department and ARES Research.

Postdoctoral Research Associate in Space Weathering

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Current state: Approved
Department: Physics and Earth and Planetary Sciences Departments
City: St. Louis
State/Province: MO - Missouri
Category: , ,
Country: USA
Contact Person: Jeffrey Gillis-Davis
Contact Email: [email protected]
Institution: Washington University in St. Louis
Application Due Date: Thursday, December 31 2020
Web Link: https://jobs.wustl.edu/

Come join the NASA SSERVI ICE Five-O team at WashU. We are looking to
hire a postdoc to research space-weathering effects in extreme
conditions on the Moon and volatile-silicate interactions within the
regolith. The successful candidate will work closely with scientists in
the Physics and Earth and Planetary Sciences Departments at WashU to
study Space weathering and volatile-regolith interactions through
experiments and electron microscopy. They will also collaborate with the
ICE Five-O team to investigate topics related to volatile evolution and
regolith development.

https://jobs.wustl.edu/

Job Title: Postdoctoral Research Associate – Physics – 49129

Any questions please contact Jeffrey Gillis-Davis, ICE Five-O PI, at
j.gillis-davis at wustl.edu.

 

POSITION SUMMARY:

Collaborating with the Principal Investigator Jeffrey Gillis-Davis (Physics) and co-investigators Bradley L. Jolliff and Alian Wang (EPS) to develop and conduct research projects on space weathering. Tasks include experiment design, conduct space weathering simulation experiments, data collection, data analysis, communication of experiment results, and data archiving.

PRIMARY DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES:

  1. Develop hypotheses to be tested related to space weathering and devise ways of testing these hypotheses.  Acquire, assemble, and perform analyses of data and interpret results. Analysis of experiment products using a range of analysis methods including SEM, TEM, EPMA, laser Raman spectroscopy, and UV-VIS-IR spectroscopy. Manage research projects in collaboration with other SSERVI institutions and investigators.
  2. Work with principal investigator and co-investigators to assist with building experimental set ups, design of research protocols, conducting research, and developing procedures for the collection, verification, and management of data.
  3. Write conference abstracts and present science results.  Prepare and submit peer-reviewed manuscripts on research results/finding.  Submit regular progress reports based on research work to PI and present progress Solar System Exploration Research Virtual Institute (SSERVI) peers.
  4. Solve practical problems relating to difficulties with equipment or instruments. Suggest technical or procedural improvements in testing methods. Comply with established safety procedures and maintaining required documentation on laboratory and specimen conditions.
  5. Archive data acquired/assembled during research task.
  6. Conduct literature searches and background reading related to research project.
  7. Assist with grant preparation and reporting. May submit grant proposals as Science-PI with the approval of the PI.
  8. Perform other duties as assigned.

Required Qualifications

PhD. in related planetary science field (physics, chemistry, geology).

Preferred Qualifications

  • PhD. in related planetary science field with at least one year of research experience and lab operations.
  • Analytical, reasoning and problem solving skills.
  • Ability to analyze and interpret multiple forms of data (e.g., spectral, chemical, electron probe).
  • Computer literacy including the ability to use a variety of software packages to analyze data and programming.
  • Ability to communicate in oral and written form in a clear, concise manner.
  • Demonstrated working knowledge of standard laboratory policies, procedures, and equipment.
  • Must be able to work well independently or as a team member and to communicate data.

 

Salary Range

Base pay commensurate with experience.

 

Pre-Employment Screening

All external candidates receiving an offer for employment will be required to submit to pre-employment screening for this position. Current employees applying for a new position within the university may be subject to this requirement. The screenings will include a criminal background check and, as applicable for the position, other background checks, drug screen, employment and education or licensure/certification verification, physical examination, certain vaccinations and/or governmental registry checks. All offers are contingent upon successful completion of required screening.

Benefits

This position is eligible for full-time benefits.  Please click the following link to view a summary of benefits:  https://hr.wustl.edu/benefits/

Applicant Special Instructions

  • May work in laboratory environment with potential exposure to chemical and laser hazards. 
  • Must be physically able to wear protective equipment as needed.
  • Ability to travel to on and off campus locations.

EOE Statement

Washington University is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, national origin, genetic information, disability, or protected veteran status.

Research Fellowships in Space Sciences & Exploration

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City: Noordwijk
Category: , , , ,
Country: The Netherlands
Contact Person: Ana M. Heras
Contact Email: [email protected]
Institution: European Space Agency
Application Due Date: Thursday, October 29 2020
Web Link: https://www.cosmos.esa.int/web/science-faculty/research-fellowship

ESA‘s postdoctoral Research Fellowship programme offers young scientists and engineers the possibility to carry out research in a variety of disciplines related to space science, space applications or space technology. Research Fellowships in Space Science & Exploration specifically offer the opportunity to contribute to ESA‘s endeavour to explore our Solar System and the Universe in the fields of human and robotic exploration, heliophysics, planetary science, astrophysics and fundamental physics.

Research Fellows also help foster a lively scientific environment in the directorates, inspiring ESA scientists to get involved in new scientific activities. The Research Fellowship programme nurtures and strengthens the links between ESA and the scientific communities in the Member States.

Approximately 9 ESA Fellowships in Space Science and 9 in Human and Robotic Exploration will be offered this year, to join the pool of about 30 Research Fellows in the two Directorates (Science and Human and Robotic Exploration).

This year, the Directorate for Human and Robotic Exploration is interested in Research Fellows working on various specific projects with brief descriptions under: https://www.cosmos.esa.int/web/science-faculty/hre. ​​​​These Fellowships are offered at ESTEC, EAC, or ECSAT.

Within the Directorate of Science, we are welcoming all proposals for innovative research associated with one or more of our missions. These Fellowships can be taken at any of the three sites: ESAC, ESTEC, or STScI. To learn more about the research conducted by the Directorate’s scientists, please visit the Science Faculty site.

Duration: Appointments are initially for two years, with a third year extension frequently granted.

Eligibility: Only citizens of ESA Member States or countries associated with ESA are eligible.

ESA Project Scientist for the Mars Sample Return mission

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Department: Directorate for Science / Directorate for Human and Robotic Exploration
City: Noordwijk
Category: , , , ,
Country: The Netherlands
Contact Person: Markus Kissler-Patig, Head of Science and Operations
Contact Email: [email protected]
Institution: European Space Agency
Application Due Date: Tuesday, July 07 2020
Web Link: https://tinyurl.com/yacthy6l

ESA Project Scientist position for Mars Sample Return mission

The European Space Agency’s Directorates for Science and for Human and Robotic Exploration are seeking a Programme Scientist for the Mars Sample Return mission. Your primary role will be to lead the scientific preparations in ESA for the Mars Sample Return Campaign. This campaign is under study by ESA and NASA and aims to return about 500g of Mars samples to Earth.

The position is based at ESTEC in the Netherlands.
Deadline for applications is July 7, 2020.

Research Scientist II – Laboratory Studies

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Department: Laboratory Studies
City: Pasadena
State/Province: Ca
Category: , , ,
Country: USA
Contact Person: Jhertaune Huntley
Contact Email: [email protected]
Institution: Jet Propulsion Laboratory
Application Due Date: Tuesday, May 05 2020
Web Link: https://jpl.jobs/jobs/2020-11716-Research-Scientist-II-Laboratory-Studies

RESEARCH SCIENTIST II AT THE JET PROPULSION LABORATORY

The Jet Propulsion Laboratory invites applications for a Scientist who will bring new expertise to and ensure continuity of existing capabilities at JPL in planetary science. The successful candidate will develop an independently funded research program, provide scientific leadership and support research conducted within the laboratory studies group. The candidate will publish in peer reviewed scientific journals, and present papers at scientific conferences.

Qualifications:

  • PhD. degree in experimental chemistry or physics.
  • Demonstrated working knowledge at the forefront of experimental laboratory studies with direct planetary science applications (i.e, relevance to icy moons, Kuiper Belt Objects, dwarf planets, asteroids, comets, and solar system evolution).
  • Demonstrated experience with a range of relevant experimental techniques (e.g., matrix isolation, UV an IR spectroscopy, mass spectroscopy, temperature programmed desorption) and apparatus (e.g., cryogenic systems, UHV systems).
  • Demonstrated reputation as a productive researcher with a track record of publications in peer-reviewed journals.

The following qualifications are preferred:

  • 3-5 years of related post-doc experience.
  • History of writing successful external research funding proposals.
  • Demonstrated working knowledge of planning, execution, and analysis of astronomical observations.

Staff Scientist in Petrology or Geo/Cosmochemistry

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Department: Division of Earth and Planets (formerly DTM/GL)
City: Washington
State/Province: District of Columbia
Category: , , ,
Country: United States
Contact Person: Larry Nittler
Contact Email: [email protected]
Institution: Carnegie Institution for Science
Application Due Date: Tuesday, February 18 2020
Web Link: https://jobs.carnegiescience.edu/jobs/staff-scientist-in-petrology-or-geo-cosmochemistry/

The Carnegie Institution for Science (Washington, DC campus) invites applications for a staff scientist in petrology or geo/cosmochemistry. We are particularly interested in candidates in research areas that will amplify our strengths in field and laboratory-based investigations, with an emphasis in igneous petrology, magmatic volatiles, or geo/cosmochemical approaches to investigate the origin and evolution of Earth and other rocky planets.  We encourage applications from those interested in cross-disciplinary areas that complement or expand our existing strengths in Earth, planetary, and exoplanet science.  We are committed to enhancing the diversity of our staff and welcome applications from individuals with a diverse set of experiences, backgrounds, and perspective.

The Carnegie Institution is a basic research organization committed to exploring intriguing scientific questions.  Carnegie staff scientists hold 12-month salaried appointments and pursue independent research supported by a combination of endowment and federal funds.  Staff scientists do not have teaching duties, but we place considerable emphasis on mentoring postdoctoral scholars.

Carnegie’s Department of Terrestrial Magnetism and Geophysical Laboratory are merging into a single division that will continue to provide staff scientists with the resources to pursue fundamental research on planet formation and evolution, including state-of-the-art experimental and analytical laboratories, computer clusters, and machine shop and electronics support.  In a separate ad, we are searching for a second staff scientist with interests in astronomy or planetary science. Information about our current research programs can be found at http://dtm.carnegiescience.edu/research and https://gl.carnegiescience.edu/our-research.  Our vision for interdisciplinary planetary research can be found at https://planets.carnegiescience.edu/.  Applicants should have a Ph.D. or equivalent degree and propose a world-class research program.

To apply, please submit (1) cover letter with the names of three references, (2) curriculum vitae, (3) list of publications, (4) abstracts of your two most relevant and important papers, (5) a 2-3 page summary of previous research, and (6) a research plan of up to 5 pages through the Apply Now button below.  You may email [email protected] with any questions.

Review of applications will begin immediately with a deadline of 18 February 2020.

The Carnegie Institution is an equal opportunity employer.  All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment and will not be discriminated against on the basis of gender, race/ethnicity, protected veteran status, disability, or other protected group status.

Staff Scientist in Astronomy or Planetary Science

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Department: Division of Earth and Planets (formerly DTM/GL)
City: Washington
State/Province: District of Columbia
Category: , , , ,
Country: United States
Contact Email: [email protected]
Institution: Carnegie Institution for Science
Application Due Date: Sunday, February 18 2018
Web Link: https://jobs.carnegiescience.edu/jobs/staff-scientist-in-astronomy-or-planetary-science/

The Carnegie Institution for Science (Washington, DC campus) invites applications for a staff scientist in astronomy or planetary science.  We are particularly interested in candidates with research emphases in laboratory experiment, theory, or observation of planet formation or (exo)planetary atmospheres. We encourage applications from those interested in cross-disciplinary areas that complement or expand our existing strengths in Earth, planetary, and exoplanet science. We are committed to enhancing the diversity of our staff and welcome applications from individuals with a diverse set of experiences, backgrounds, and perspectives.

The Carnegie Institution is a basic research organization committed to exploring intriguing scientific questions.  Carnegie staff scientists hold 12-month salaried appointments and pursue independent research supported by a combination of endowment and federal funds.  Staff scientists do not have teaching duties, but we place considerable emphasis on mentoring postdoctoral scholars.

Carnegie’s Department of Terrestrial Magnetism and Geophysical Laboratory are merging into a single division that will continue to provide staff scientists with the resources to pursue fundamental research on planet formation, (exo)planets, and planetary evolution, including state-of-the-art laboratories, computer clusters, and a partnership with Carnegie’s Observatories that includes access to Las Campanas Observatory.  In a separate ad, we are searching for a second staff scientist with interests in planetary petrology, magmatic volatiles, or geo/cosmochemical approaches to planet evolution. Information about our current research programs can be found at http://dtm.carnegiescience.edu/research and https://gl.carnegiescience.edu/our-research.  Our vision for interdisciplinary planetary research can be found at https://planets.carnegiescience.edu/.  Applicants should have a Ph.D. or equivalent degree and propose a world-class research program.

To apply, please submit (1) cover letter with the names and addresses of three references, (2) curriculum vitae, (3) list of publications, (4) abstracts of your two most relevant and important papers, (5) a 2-3 page summary of previous research, and (6) a research plan of up to 5 pages through the “Apply Now” button below.  You may email [email protected] with any questions.

Review of applications will begin immediately with a deadline of 18 February 2020.

The Carnegie Institution is an equal opportunity employer.  All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment and will not be discriminated against on the basis of gender, race/ethnicity, protected veteran status, disability, or other protected group status.

Ph.D. Student Opportunity

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Current state: Approved
City: Stony Brook
State/Province: New York
Category: , ,
Country: USA
Contact Person: Hanna Nekvasil
Contact Email: [email protected]
Institution: Stony Brook University
Application Due Date: Wednesday, January 15 2020

We have an opening for a Ph.D. student interested in experimentally investigating the interaction of volcanic gas and martian surface materials and assessing the IR spectral signature of the products beginning Fall 2020. The student will work with Dr. Hanna Nekvasil on experiments simulating boiling of magma and investigate the nature of vapor-deposited salts added to martian dust as well as the alteration of basalt by martian volcanic gas. The student will also work with Dr. A. Deanne Rogers on assessing the IR spectral signature of the martian fines altered by volcanic gas and how this signature is modified by reaction during changes in relative humidity. Interested students should contact [email protected]. Stony Brook University has a dynamic planetary science group and a long history of excellence in experimental igneous petrology. Please pass this message on to any student you think may be interested.
 

Cosmochemistry Position at the University of Colorado, Boulder

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Current state: Approved
Department: Laboratory for Atmospheric and Space Physics
City: Boulder
State/Province: Colorado
Category: , , , ,
Country: USA
Contact Email: [email protected]
Institution: University of Colorado, Boulder
Application Due Date: Wednesday, January 15 2020
Web Link: https://jobs.colorado.edu/jobs/JobDetail/Assistant-Professor-in-Cosmochemistry/22080

The Laboratory for Atmospheric and Space Physics (LASP) at the University of Colorado at Boulder invites applications for a tenure-track assistant professor position to start in August 2020, in the general field of Cosmochemistry. The successful candidate is expected to establish a vigorous program, complementary to the ongoing research of the Institute for Modeling Plasmas, Atmospheres, and Cosmic Dust (IMPACT: http://impact.colorado.edu), a node in NASA’s Solar System Exploration Research Virtual Institute (SSERVI).

Areas of interest include: Analysis and interpretation of composition measurements of cosmic dust and their significance for studies of the origins and evolution of thesolar system. Development of new laboratory experiments at the Colorado Dust Accelerator Facility to support instrument development and data analysis. Using dust composition measurements to model the chemical evolution of solar systembodies: Moon, asteroids, comets, and all other planetary objects. Applicants should have a Ph.D. in Physics, Planetary Sciences, Chemistry, or related areas completed by March 15, 2020.

Review of applications will begin on January 15, 2020 and will continue until the position is filled. For consideration, applications must be submitted online:  https://jobs.colorado.edu/jobs/JobDetail/Assistant-Professor-in-Cosmoche…. Contact Email: [email protected]

Planetary Science Faculty Position at the University of Michigan

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Department: Climate and Space Science and Engineering
City: Ann Arbor
State/Province: Michigan
Category: , , , ,
Country: USA
Contact Person: Jeremy Bassis
Contact Email: [email protected]
Institution: University of Michigan
Application Due Date: Friday, November 15 2019
Web Link: https://clasp.engin.umich.edu/stories/faculty-position-in-planetary-science/

The Department of Climate and Space Sciences and Engineeringin the College of Engineering at the University of Michigan in Ann Arbor invites applications for a tenure track faculty position in the field of planetary science.  Although the position is open to all ranks, we especially seek candidates at the Assistant Professor level. We look for candidates who are capable of developing an internationally recognized research program, successfully competing for external funding, mentoring doctoral students, and participating in our educational programs at the graduate and undergraduate levels.  We welcome applications from candidates whose research addresses cross-disciplinary areas that build upon our existing strengths in climate science (including radiative transfer, atmospheric dynamics/chemistry and cryospheric processes), composition, structure, chemistry, and the origin and evolution of planetary atmospheres, planetary surface-atmosphere coupling, and the development of space instrumentation and missions. We are especially interested in candidates with a strong motivation for building bridges between planetary science, including exoplanets, and the climate and space science research programs in our department.  

Applications should include a cover letter, CV, research and teaching statements, a statement describing any activities, contributions, or plans related to supporting diversity, equity, and inclusion, and a list of four references with contact details. For full consideration, applications compiled into a single PDF should be received before November 15th, 2019. Applications should be addressed to [email protected]. Questions about the position or application process can be directed to the search committee chair Jeremy Bassis ([email protected]).

University of Michigan is committed to diversity, equity and inclusion. CLASP and the College of Engineering are especially interested in exceptionally well qualified candidates who will contribute, through their research, teaching, and service, to the diversity and excellence of the academic community. Women, minorities, individuals with disabilities, and veterans are encouraged to apply. The University is also responsive to the needs of dual-career couples. The University is a non-discriminatory, affirmative action Employer.

Michigan Engineering’s vision is to be the world’s preeminent college of engineering serving the common good. This global outlook, leadership focus, and service commitment permeate our culture. Our vision is supported by a mission and values that, together, provide the framework for all that we do.  Information about our vision, mission and values can be found at: http://strategicvision.engin.umich.edu/.

The University of Michigan has a storied legacy of commitment to Diversity, Equity and Inclusion (DEI). The Michigan Engineering component of the University’s comprehensive, five-year, DEI strategic plan—with updates on our programs and resources dedicated to ensuring a welcoming, fair, and inclusive environment—can be found at: http://www.engin.umich.edu/college/about/diversity.