Category: Observation

Postdoctoral Fellow Cometary Atmospheres

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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.

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.

JPL Postdoctoral Fellow

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Department: Planetary Interiors and Geophysics
City: Pasadena
State/Province: CA
Category: , , , ,
Country: USA
Contact Person: Catherine Elder
Contact Email: [email protected]
Institution: Jet Propulsion Laboratory
Application Due Date: Saturday, April 25 2020
Web Link: https://jpl.jobs/jobs/2020-11715-Understanding-lunar-surface-processes-using-LRO-Diviner

The postdoctoral research associate will work with Dr. Catherine Elder to study lunar surface processes using a combination of thermal modeling and observations by the Lunar Reconnaissance Orbiter (LRO) Diviner Lunar Radiometer Experiment (Diviner). Diviner observations can constrain the material properties of the lunar surface and shallow subsurface which leads to a better understanding of the geologic history of the Moon. Topics of particular interest include volcanism, regolith formation and evolution, and impact processes. The appointee will carry out research in collaboration with the JPL advisor and others, resulting in publications in the open literature.

Candidates should have a recent PhD in planetary science, physics, geology, or a related field. Candidates should have experience with numerical modeling and a strong background in physics. Experience using remote sensing data is preferred but not required. Candidates who have received their PhD within the past five years since the date of their application are eligible. Postdoctoral Scholar positions are awarded for a minimum of one-year period and may be renewed up to a maximum of three years.

Emirates Mars Mission Postdoctoral Research Fellowship

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Department: Varies
City: Varies
State/Province: Varies
Category: , , ,
Country: USA/France & UAE
Contact Person: Dave Brain
Contact Email: [email protected]
Institution: One of 8 EMM science team institutions and Khalifa University
Application Due Date: Tuesday, March 17 2020
Web Link: https://jobs.colorado.edu/jobs/JobDetail/?jobId=24229

The Emirates Mars Mission (EMM) science team and Khalifa University (KU) are inviting applications for up to 5 postdoctoral research fellowship positions. We seek candidates interested in spacecraft observations and models of the Martian atmosphere (including the upper atmosphere) relevant to EMM observations. EMM will launch in July 2020 and arrive at Mars in early 2021, and carries an imaging system with several visible and UV bandpasses (EXI), a thermal IR spectrometer (EMIRS), and a UV imaging spectrometer (EMUS). Examples of science topics that postdocs may pursue include, but are not limited to:

  • Thermal structure of the lower Martian atmosphere
  • Clouds and aerosols in the Martian atmosphere
  • Atmospheric variability on diurnal, daily, and seasonal timescales
  • Vertical transport in the Martian atmosphere
  • Structure and composition of the Martian thermosphere
  • The hydrogen and oxygen exosphere of Mars
  • Thermal and photochemical escape from the Martian atmosphere
  • General Circulation Modeling of the Martian atmosphere (including upper atmosphere)

The fellowship is initially for two years, and renewable for up to one additional year. Postdocs will split their time each year between a host institution affiliated with the EMM science team (University of Colorado Laboratory for Atmospheric and Space Physics, UC Berkeley Space Sciences Lab, Northern Arizona University, Arizona State University, NASA Goddard Space Flight Center, Space Sciences Institute, Virginia Tech, and Laboratoire de Météorologie Dynamique in Paris), and KU in Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates. While at KU the postdocs will continue their EMM research and participate in the formation of a new space science and technology center. It is anticipated that one or more of the postdocs may be able to transition to a tenure-track faculty position at KU during or after the postdoc period.

Applicants should have met the requirements for a Ph.D. in planetary science, atmospheric physics, or a related field by the end of May 2020. Applications will be considered on a rolling basis, with initial review starting March 17.

We recognize that the effectiveness and creativity of a group is strengthened by contributions from a broad range of perspectives. As such, we welcome candidates from groups that are historically underrepresented in our field.

For more information about EMM please see: https://www.mbras.ae/EMM

For more information about Khalifa University please see: https://www.ku.ac.ae/

For questions please contact: [email protected]

Applicants should submit a letter of interest, a C.V., and the names of three references to https://jobs.colorado.edu/jobs/JobDetail/?jobId=24229.

Research Physical Scientist

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Department: Astrogeology Science Center
City: FLAGSTAFF
State/Province: ARIZONA
Category: , , , ,
Country: United States
Contact Person: Earl Emerson
Contact Email: [email protected]
Institution: U. S. Geological Survey
Application Due Date: Wednesday, February 12 2020
Web Link: https://www.usajobs.gov/GetJob/ViewDetails/557280200

Planetary geologic maps have been funded by the National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA) and published by the USGS since 1961. The USGS Planetary Geologic Mapping Group at the Astrogeology Science Center in Flagstaff, AZ is critically involved in the scientific and technical aspects of geologic mapping process in support of NASA programs. This position is for a Research Physical Scientist to fill the Tanaka-Greeley Fellowship within the USGS Planetary Geologic Mapping Group in Flagstaff, AZ. 

The position will primarily support the coordination, review, and production of NASA-funded planetary geologic mapping projects by both USGS and non-USGS geologists and space scientists and work closely with USGS scientists, cartographers, and data specialists to develop, establish, and implement best practices and standards. The position will also work both individually and as a team to create original geologic maps of high priority regions of the Moon and Mars in support of USGS and NASA goals. 

As a Research Physical Scientist within the Astrogeology Science Center, some of your specific duties will include:

  • Develop techniques and procedures to create high-precision planetary geologic maps
  • Assist with the technical and scientific review of planetary geologic maps
  • Assist with and lead the preparation of scientific and technical articles derived from planetary geologic mapping-based investigations
  • Develop and promulgate new planetary cartographic standards in order to maximize the consistent use and representation of planetary geologic maps and map-supportive data
  • Assist authors and USGS in the preparation of geologic map components for eventual publication
  • Generate GIS databases of specified data, building thematic data layers
  • Manage geospatial databases and data files
  • Train and direct other personnel in the geologic mapping process, use of mapping standards, GIS technologies, feature and map databases, and/or the use of GIS analysis tools

IT Specialist

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Department: Astrogeology Science Center
City: FLAGSTAFF
State/Province: ARIZONA
Category: , , , ,
Country: United States
Contact Person: Earl Emerson
Contact Email: [email protected]
Institution: U.S. Geological Survey
Application Due Date: Wednesday, February 12 2020
Web Link: https://www.usajobs.gov/GetJob/ViewDetails/556831100

Planetary geologic maps have been funded by the National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA) and published by the USGS since 1961. The USGS Planetary Geologic Mapping Group at the Astrogeology Science Center in Flagstaff, AZ is critically involved in the scientific and technical aspects of geologic mapping process in support of NASA programs. This position is for an IT Specialist to work within the USGS Planetary Geologic Mapping Group in Flagstaff, AZ.

The position will primarily support the creation, review, and production of NASA-funded planetary geologic mapping projects by providing technical support with respect to Geographic Information Systems (GIS), metadata, and cartographic standards. This will include, but is not limited to, managing geospatial databases and data files, documenting and communicating mapping workflows, developing new scientific and/or cartographic tools for planetary data analysis, and routine IT support services.

As an IT Specialist (Applications Software) within the Astrogeology Science Center, some of your specific duties will include:

  • Generates GIS databases of specified data, building thematic data layers
  • Manages geospatial databases and data files
  • Develops new scientific and/or cartographic tools for planetary data analysis
  • Scripts Python programs
  • Develops, adapts, and implements geospatial data standards
  • Trains and directs other personnel in the use of GIS packages, creation of GIS databases, and/or the use of GIS analysis tools
  • Tests, installs, implements, documents, and maintains GIS software
  • Provides technical guidance in testing, debugging, and maintaining GIS software

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.

Postdoctoral researcher in exoplanet observations (SAINT-EX)

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Department: Center for Space and Habitability
City: Bern
Category: , ,
Country: Switzerland
Contact Person: Brice-Olivier Demory
Contact Email: [email protected]
Institution: University of Bern
Application Due Date: Friday, January 10 2020
Web Link: https://ohws.prospective.ch/public/v1/jobs/3f797e2c-bc5a-4a5e-b80b-276db2397724

Applications are invited for a Postdoctoral position at the Centre for Space and Habitability (CSH, http://csh.unibe.ch) of the University of Bern. 

The successful applicant will work as a member of the SAINT-EX research team led by Prof. Brice-Olivier Demory (http://www.saintex.unibe.ch). The Postdoctoral researcher will be expected to conduct a competitive research programme in exoplanets and will be coordinating the science operations of the SAINT-EX ground-based observatory. SAINT-EX is a 1-m, fully robotic telescope located in San Pedro Martir (Mexico) that focuses 1) on the search for transiting exoplanets orbiting ultra-cool dwarfs (similar to TRAPPIST-1) and 2) in providing ground-based support to the ESA CHEOPS mission (launch Dec 2019). The successful Postdoctoral researcher will also have the opportunity to be involved in the SPECULOOS collaboration. A high-degree of interaction with the CSH members is also expected.

Candidates with previous expertise in exoplanet observations and/or ground-based telescope operations are strongly encouraged to apply. 

As per the University of Bern’s rules, candidates to this position should have been awarded their PhD after 1 August 2017.

Starting salary is 87’750 CHF, with an initial appointment of 2 years. Child allowance and maternity/paternity leave are offered. The earliest starting date is 1 August 2020. The position comes with a research budget for travel, publication costs and computing resources. 

Applications are invited from all nationalities and should consist of 1) a cover letter, 2) a CV, 3) a research proposal (3 pages), 4) a summary of past achievements (1 page), 5) a list of publications and 6) the names of 3 references. Materials should be submitted through the web interface at: https://ohws.prospective.ch/public/v1/jobs/3f797e2c-bc5a-4a5e-b80b-276db…

Applications received by 10 January 2020 will receive full consideration.

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.