Category: Mars

Postdoctoral Fellow in Mars Data Assimilation

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Department: National Space Science and Technology Center
City: Al Ain
State/Province: Abu Dhabi
Category: , , , ,
Country: United Arab Emirates
Contact Person: Dr Roland Young
Contact Email: [email protected]
Institution: UAE University
Application Due Date: Thursday, September 30 2021
Web Link: https://rolandyoung.bitbucket.io/601471.pdf

The National Space Science and Technology Center (NSSTC) at the United Arab Emirates University in Al Ain, UAE, invites applications for a Postdoctoral Fellow in Mars Data Assimilation. The anticipated start date is the beginning of 2022, for an initial period of two years. Review of applications will begin on 1 October 2021. 

The Emirates Mars Mission (EMM) arrived at Mars in February 2021. Its unique orbit and viewing geometry make it an ideal platform to use data assimilation to combine observations with Mars General Circulation Model (GCM) simulations. The purpose of this position is to expand an existing data assimilation scheme to also assimilate aerosol and trace gas data (dust, water ice, water vapour, and ozone) from EMM’s instruments, primarily data from the thermal infrared Emirates Mars Infrared Spectrometer, but also from the visible/UV Emirates eXploration Imager. The aim is to assimilate as many datasets from EMM’s instruments simultaneously, to produce complete climate states that incorporate all of EMM’s lower atmosphere observations.

The postdoc will have some freedom to develop this research as they like, within the bounds of what has been done already. They will be expected to use the obtained data products to perform independent research on open science questions related to Mars’ atmosphere. NSSTC will also require the successful candidate to devote some of their time to its operational Earth Observation objectives, based on personal experience and expertise. 

The assimilation scheme is based on the LETKF and uses the LMD Mars GCM, with previous work using observations from ExoMars-TGO-ACS and NASA-MRO-MCS. An ideal candidate will already have experience with some or all of these instruments and methods.

The position offers a competitive monthly tax-free salary, an excellent medical insurance package for the applicant and their family, and travel funds.

Applications should be made via https://jobs.uaeu.ac.ae. Information about the NSSTC Planetary Science group can be found at https://rolandyoung.bitbucket.io/research-group.html.

Postdoctoral Researcher

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City: Houston
State/Province: TX
Category: , , ,
Country: USA
Contact Person: German Martinez
Contact Email: [email protected]
Institution: Lunar and Planetary Institute / USRA
Application Due Date: Monday, March 15 2021
Web Link: https://workforcenow.adp.com/mascsr/default/mdf/recruitment/recruitment.html?cid=f03960f2-20cd-4828-9ae5-415eefc7072e&ccId=19000101_000001&jobId=371641&lang=en_US&source=TW&fbclid=IwAR3yTLEvGDjb536fIEmekDQpjdxnIGvwSh7w2XT3lXE6xhYOvAkP_w9Dos0

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

Research opportunities in Space Plasmas at LASP

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Current state: Approved
Department: Laboratory for Atmospheric and Space Physics
City: Boulder
State/Province: Colorado
Category: , , ,
Country: USA
Contact Person: Xiangning Chu
Contact Email: [email protected]
Institution: University of Colorado Boulder
Application Due Date: Sunday, January 31 2021
Web Link: https://jobs.colorado.edu/jobs/JobDetail/?jobId=27442

The Space Plasma Group at the Laboratory for Atmospheric and Space Physics (LASP), University of Colorado, Boulder (CU)
invites applications for multiple open positions for research scientists in Space Physics at different rankings (RS-I,
RS-II, or RS-III).
Research projects include:
(1) data analysis of Magnetospheric Multiscale (MMS) mission and accompanying modeling efforts to study magnetic
reconnection, turbulence, acceleration, shocks, and/or other kinetic plasma processes,
(2) application of Machine Learning to space weather, especially Earth?s radiation belt and ionospheric phenomena,
(3) analysis of Parker Solar Probe data to study near-Sun solar wind plasma and field phenomena, and
(4) Mars data analysis with key interest in the Langmuir Probe and Waves (LPW) data from the MAVEN mission.

The candidates must hold Ph.D. in Physics or similar Scientific or Engineering discipline. The candidate should
indicate their research interests, and how they could enhance and benefit the research projects above. Depending on the
science topic, demonstration of their skills in data analysis of particle and field observations, MHD/PIC simulation,
or machine learning is highly desirable.
Interested candidates are strongly encouraged to submit an application before January 31, 2021.

Application Materials Required: Cover Letter, Resume/CV, Contact information for three professional references,
Unofficial transcript (if graduated in 3 years) via the link:

https://jobs.colorado.edu/jobs/JobDetail/?jobId=27442

For more information, please contact: [email protected]<

Postdoctoral Researcher, Science (Visiting) (Radar Studies Fellow)

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Current state: Approved
City: Houston
State/Province: Texas
Category: , , , ,
Country: USA
Contact Person: Cynthia Svambera
Contact Email: [email protected]
Institution: Lunar and Planetary Institute
Application Due Date: Thursday, December 31 2020
Web Link: https://workforcenow.adp.com/mascsr/default/mdf/recruitment/recruitment.html?cid=f03960f2-20cd-4828-9ae5-415eefc7072e&ccId=19000101_000001&jobId=371369&lang=en_US&source=CC4

The Universities Space Research Association’s Lunar and Planetary Institute (LPI) invites applications for a Postdoctoral Fellow in Planetary Radar Studies. Applicants should have a recent Ph.D. in planetary science, astronomy, physics, geoscience, electrical engineering, or a related field.

The successful candidate will join Drs. Patrick A. Taylor and Edgard G. Rivera-Valentín in using ground-based planetary radar observations to characterize near-Earth objects and other planetary bodies (e.g., the Moon, Mercury, and Mars). The LPI is a partner of the Arecibo Observatory planetary radar group and closely collaborates with other facilities, including the Goldstone Solar System Radar and the Green Bank Observatory. The successful candidate will work alongside the radar team to conduct detailed studies of near-Earth objects and planetary surfaces via radar observations, data analysis, and modeling. Additionally, the successful candidate is expected to carry out an independent research program and contribute to public engagement events at the LPI and, furthermore, will be encouraged to propose for external funding and participate in grant review panels and analysis/assessment groups.

At the LPI, the successful candidate will have the opportunity to interact with scientists of many specialties (see www.lpi.usra.edu) including scientists from the Astromaterials Research and Exploration Science (ARES) division of the NASA Johnson Space Center. Additionally, the applicant will have the opportunity to participate in the development of the LPI’s Planetary Radar Investigation, Demonstration, and Exploration (PRIDE) laboratory for conducting controlled radar-scattering experiments. 

Required expertise includes: experience in numerical and statistical techniques, proficiency in a common astronomy programming language (e.g., IDL, MATLAB, Python), and demonstrated knowledge of planetary radar studies. Direct experience with radar observations and techniques is strongly desired, but not required. Complementary experience with astronomical/Solar System observations (e.g., optical or infrared), small-body geophysics, or astronomical instrumentation is preferred, but not required.

The position is for two years with a possible one-year extension. The candidate must be able to pass a government background investigation. Due to security restrictions, citizens of U.S. State Department Designated Countries (see link under “ECP Notices” at http://oiir.hq.nasa.gov/nasaecp/) are not eligible.

Interested applicants should apply to the posting at USRA 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 on February 24, 2019; however, applications will be accepted until the position is filled. Questions can be addressed to Dr. Patrick A. Taylor.

Postdoctoral Researcher (Visiting) (Radiative Transfer Modeling)

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City: Houston
State/Province: Texas
Category: ,
Country: USA
Contact Person: Cynthia Svambera
Contact Email: [email protected]
Institution: Lunar and Planetary Institute
Application Due Date: Thursday, December 31 2020
Web Link: https://workforcenow.adp.com/mascsr/default/mdf/recruitment/recruitment.html?cid=f03960f2-20cd-4828-9ae5-415eefc7072e&ccId=19000101_000001&jobId=371641&lang=en_US&source=CC4

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. 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. The successful candidate may also participate in operations planning for the MEDA instrument. Additionally, the successful candidate is expected to carry out an independent research program and contribute to public engagement events at the LPI. They will also be encouraged to propose for external funding and participate in NASA grant review panels and analysis/assessment groups.

At the LPI, the successful candidate will have the opportunity to interact with scientists of many specialties (see www.lpi.usra.edu), including scientists from the Astromaterials Research and Exploration Science (ARES) division of the NASA Johnson Space Center (https://ares.jsc.nasa.gov/). Additionally, LPI scientists maintain active collaborations with faculty at the nearby Rice University and the University of Houston.

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. Required expertise includes proficiency in a common radiative-transfer programming language (e.g., IDL, MATLAB, Fortran), and a record of publications 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. The candidate must be able to pass a government background investigation. Due to security restrictions, citizens of U.S. State Department Designated Countries (see link under “ECP Notices” at http://oiir.hq.nasa.gov/nasaecp/) are not eligible.

Interested applicants should apply to the posting at USRA 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 on October 1, 2020; however, applications will be accepted until the position is filled. Questions can be addressed to Dr. Germán Martínez ([email protected]).

USRA is an Equal Opportunity Employer.

Mars 3D Icecap Radar Imaging

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Department: Geophysics
City: Golden
State/Province: CO
Category: , , ,
Country: USA
Contact Person: Paul Sava
Contact Email: [email protected]
Institution: Colorado School of Mines
Application Due Date: Sunday, November 15 2020
Web Link: https://jobs.mines.edu/cw/en-us/job/494592/postdoctoral-fellow-geophysics-mars-3d-icecap-radar-imaging

The Colorado School of Mines Department of Geophysics invites applications for a postdoctoral researcher in 3D imaging of the Mars ice caps using orbital radar data.

The successful candidate’s responsibilities will consist of developing custom radar processing and imaging software, as well as the processing of large 3D data volumes obtained from Mars orbiters equipped with radar systems (SHARAD and MARSIS). We seek an outstanding individual holding a Ph.D. in geophysics, (electrical) engineering, or a related discipline with demonstrated

– experience with orbital radar instrumentation and data processing;

– experience with large scale numerical modeling, imaging, and inversion;

– excellent programming skills in C++ and Python, or equivalent languages;

– experience with high-performance distributed computing.

All candidates applying for this position should be motivated to work in an interdisciplinary framework and to interact closely with other team members at Mines and partner institutions. The candidate is expected to work independently, demonstrating initiative, strong organizational and communication skills, and respect for project deadlines.

The position will be located in the Department of Geophysics at Colorado School of Mines in Golden, CO. We at Mines recognize that diversity is a crucial component to excellence in education and research, and strive to cultivate a community in which students, faculty, and staff with differing backgrounds, perspectives, talents, and needs are supported. We believe that a diverse community fosters energizing and enlightening debates, leads to deeper commitments, and results in a host of educational, research, and service outcomes both within our institution and the broader scientific community.

The successful candidate will be offered an initial one-year full-time postdoctoral scholar position, with the possibility for an extension during a second year. The position is available immediately and the goal is to fill it no later than January 2021.

Starting salary will be determined by the qualifications of the selected applicant balanced with departmental budget availability, internal salary equity considerations, and available market information. Mines provides an attractive benefits package including fully paid health and dental insurance. Part of Mines’ mission is to create a family-friendly environment supported through our dependent tuition benefits, parental leave benefits, and dependent care assistance plan, as well as in special events, camps, and programming. For more information visit: https://www.mines.edu/human-resources/family-at-mines

All applications must include:

– a cover letter outlining the candidate’s suitability and motivation for the role;

– a current curriculum vitae;

– copies of the diplomas/university certificates; and

– a list of three people who could provide references.

For full consideration, please submit applications by November 15, 2020, via the Mines application portal: https://jobs.mines.edu/cw/en-us/job/494592/postdoctoral-fellow-geophysic…

Please send any questions to Dr. Paul Sava ([email protected]).

Research Space Scientist

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Department: Heliophysics and Planetary Science Branch
City: Huntsville
State/Province: Alabama
Category: , , , ,
Country: USA
Contact Person: David McKenzie
Contact Email: [email protected]
Institution: NASA Marshall Space Flight Center
Application Due Date: Thursday, December 31 2020

The Heliophysics and Planetary Science Branch at NASA’s Marshall Space Flight Center in Huntsville, Alabama, plans to offer multiple positions seeking scientists to conduct research and develop applications to solve challenging Planetary Science problems. Outstanding candidates have the potential to be selected for federal employment, joining more than 30 other federal employees, academic staff, and contractors supporting Planetary Science efforts within the Branch, a subset of the Science Research and Projects Division, and the Science and Technology Office at Marshall Space Flight Center.

Research Space Scientist positions will be offered for researchers in planetary science, with expertise in remote sensing of planets, moons, and asteroids, and the development of instrumentation for planetary science investigations. The selected candidates will add substantive capability synergistic with the current staff and the goals of NASA’s Artemis program and MSFC’s strategy to integrate human space flight and science robotic capabilities in the Artemis era. The candidates will have an opportunity to lead the development of research proposals for new activities, execute funded projects, and share their accomplishments through conference participation and appropriate peer-reviewed literature.

The positions are expected to be announced in autumn 2020 under the category of Research Space Scientist and at the GS-13 grade level. Successful candidates will have had experience applying advanced tools, techniques, and/or data analysis/mining/machine learning techniques to datasets collected with remote sensing measurement techniques. Candidates should have made regular contributions to a research team with some guidance and direction, developed new analysis techniques to solve challenging problems, made contributions to peer-reviewed proposals in response to technical solicitations, and have contributed to peer-reviewed publications as part of a demonstrated publication record.

The formal announcement of the opportunity and related requirements will be posted in the near future at USAJobs (www.usajobs.gov) and can be found by searching with keyword NASA and location of Huntsville, Alabama. Applications are only accepted through the USAJobs portal, and United States citizenship is required to be eligible for these civil service positions. Candidates are encouraged to create a USAJobs profile well in advance to populate their resume and may also subscribe to USAJobs alerts received via email. Informal inquiries can be directed to Dr. David McKenzie, [email protected], 256-961-7896.

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
Category: , , , ,
Country: USA
Contact Person: Nick Schneider
Contact Email: [email protected]
Institution: U. Colorado, Boulder
Application Due Date: Sunday, November 15 2020
Web Link: https://jobs.colorado.edu/jobs/jobDetail?jobId=21086

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
Category: , , , ,
Country: USA
Contact Person: Nick Schneider
Contact Email: [email protected]
Institution: University of Colorado Boulder
Application Due Date: Sunday, November 15 2020
Web Link: https://jobs.colorado.edu/jobs/jobDetail?jobId=21086

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.

Research Scientist, Outer Planet Magnetospheres and Moon Interactions

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Department: Planetary Science, Astrobiology and Ocean Worlds
City: PASADENA
State/Province: California
Category: , , , ,
Country: United States
Contact Person: Cheryl Cooperstein
Contact Email: [email protected]
Institution: Jet Propulsion Laboratory
Application Due Date: Monday, October 12 2020
Web Link: http://jpl.jobs/jobs/2020-12409-Research-Science-Outer-Planet-Magnetospheres-and-Moon-Interactions

The Jet Propulsion Laboratory, California Institute of Technology invites applications for a Research Scientist position in planetary science, with a focus on research and instrument/mission development in the areas of magnetospheres, magnetosphere-moon interactions and astrobiology.  JPL is committed to fostering an enriching and rewarding research environment with strong support and coaching for professional and personal development.

In this position you will conduct planetary science research with a focus on modeling of magnetospheric charged particle interactions and other exogenous weathering effects, and applying such results to inform remote sensing observations and biosignature detection. It is expected that the successful candidate would develop an independently-funded research program and would pursue new mission and/or instrument opportunities focusing on the exploration of habitable environments in the Solar System, in particular the icy moons of the Ice Giant planets.

This position requires a Ph.D. degree in space physics, planetary science, planetary physics, or a related field along with expertise in outer planet magnetospheres and moon-magnetosphere interactions (ideally Ice Giants).

To view the full description of this unique opportunity (including EEO statement and NASA requirements) and apply, please visit http://jpl.jobs/jobs/2020-12409-Research-Science-Outer-Planet-Magnetospheres-and-Moon-Interactions. Applications received by October 12, 2020, will receive full consideration.