Category: Missions

NanoSIMS Research Scientist

Posted on
Current state: Approved and Notify DPS Secretary
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 Researcher

Posted on
Current state: Approved and Notify DPS Secretary
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

Posted on
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]<

Planetary Astronomer

Posted on
Current state: Approved
Department: PDS Ring-Moon Systems Node
City: Mountain View
State/Province: CA
Category: , , , ,
Country: USA
Contact Person: Armine Saroian
Contact Email: [email protected]
Institution: SETI Institute
Application Due Date: Friday, January 15 2021
Web Link: https://www.seti.org/jobs/planetary-astronomer

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

Posted on
Current state: Approved
Department: Physics Department
City: Aurburn
State/Province: AL
Category: , , , ,
Country: USA
Contact Person: Dennis Bodewits
Contact Email: [email protected]
Institution: Auburn University
Application Due Date: Sunday, November 15 2020
Web Link: https://www.auemployment.com/postings/19536

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.

Satellite Operator

Posted on
Current state: Review
City: Logan
State/Province: UT
Category:
Country: United States
Contact Person: Sam Pugmire
Contact Email: [email protected]
Institution: Utah State University Space Dynamics Laboratory
Application Due Date: Thursday, December 31 2020
Web Link: https://jobs.sdl.usu.edu/usurf-jobs/employment/position-details?job_position_id=10414

 

The Space Dynamics Laboratory (SDL) has experience performing satellite on-orbit operations for the US Government. SDL provides operations staff and a functional operations center, which can execute full lifecycle ground capabilities including ground system integration, operations procedure development, mission management, command and control, and mission data processing.
 

SDL is seeking a Spacecraft Mission Operator for small satellite operations. Mission operators will work with a small, dynamic team to support operation center set up and day-to-day operations. The operations team will run a “lights out” (Monday-Friday, 8-5) work schedule during normal operations. The position will require flexibility in work hours during launch, early operations, and anomaly resolution to support needs outside the normal work schedule. During periods of key deliverables, Mission Operations staff may be required to work day, swing, and night shifts.

 

Key Responsibilities:

·    Perform on-console tasks for real-time operations and anomaly investigations for multiple missions

·    Develop and execute:

          o   Exercises and rehearsals

          o   Procedures for mission operations

          o   Spacecraft contact plans and schedules

          o   Training material

·    Respond to anomalies, software issues/failures

·    Test software and procedures

·    Trend and monitor telemetry

·    Monitor health and safety of space and ground segments

·    Support mission integration into the operations center

 

Required Qualifications:

·    BS degree OR five year’s relevant experience

·    Previous satellite operations center experience*

·    Ability to quickly learn new software and technical subjects

·    Excellent organization communication skills

·    Have a positive “can-do” attitude

·    Work well in both a team environment and executing individual tasks

·    Willing to work off hours if needed (as mission requirements dictate)

·    Must be a US citizen and hold an active TS security clearance

 

*Qualifying experience could include military job codes 13S Satellite/Space Operations, 1C6 Satellite/Space Systems Operations, 25N Network Systems Operator, 17C Cyber Operations, 35S Signals Collection, AWO/AWR/AWV Aircrewman, AT Aviation Electronics Technician, CTT Cryptologic Technician Technical, IT/ATF Information Systems Technician, OS Operations Specialist, STG Sonar Technician, SECF Submarine Electronics/Computer Field

 

Preferred Qualifications:

·    General knowledge of spacecraft subsystems, orbit dynamics, and ground systems

·    Attitude determination and control (ADCS)

·    Hold an active TS/SCI clearance with active SSBI

·    Knowledge of multiple ground networks (AFSCN, NEN, MC3, KSAT, and etc.)

·    Experience with

          o   Telemetry analysis and trending

          o   STK modeling

          o   Orbit analysis

          o   Thermal analysis

          o   Electrical power systems

          o   Communication systems

          o   Space situational awareness

          o   Command and data handling

          o   Flight and ground software

          o   Network administration

          o   Data management

          o   Grafana

          o   Tableau

 

SDL Benefits:

At SDL, we take pride in and highly value our employees. SDL offers competitive salaries and a fantastic benefits package to exempt staff, which includes:

· Flexible work schedules

· Generous annual, sick, and holiday paid leave

· A variety of inexpensive-premium, high quality health, dental, vision, and life insurance options

· Generous employer retirement contribution (14.2% of annual gross earnings)

· Discounted USU tuition of 50% for employees and dependents

· Access to USU facilities and USU staff privileges

 

Instructions to applicants:

Along with the online application, please submit

· Cover Letter

· Resume

 

Please contact us if you do not receive a confirmation email within 24 hours of applying.

 

AA/EOE

Postdoc with MAVEN’s Imaging UltraViolet Spectrograph Team

Posted on
Current state: Approved and Notify DPS Secretary
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]

Research Space Scientist

Posted on
Current state: Approved and Notify DPS Secretary
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
Web Link: http://www.usajobs.gov

Upcoming Planetary Science Research Positions at NASA’s Marshall Space Flight Center

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.

Research Fellowships in Space Sciences & Exploration

Posted on
Current state: Approved and Notify DPS Secretary
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.

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

Posted on
Current state: Approved and Notify DPS Secretary
Department: National Space Science and Technology Center
City: Al Ain
State/Province: Abu Dhabi
Category: , , , ,
Country: United Arab Emirates
Contact Person: Roland Young
Contact Email: [email protected]
Institution: United Arab Emirates University
Application Due Date: Sunday, September 06 2020
Web Link: https://jobs.uaeu.ac.ae

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.