Category: Surface Composition

Solar System Exploration Postdoctoral Fellow

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Current state: Approved and Notify DPS Secretary
Department: Department of Earth and Planetary Sciences
City: Baltimore
State/Province: MD
Category: , ,
Country: USA
Contact Person: Sarah Horst
Contact Email: [email protected]
Institution: Johns Hopkins University
Application Due Date: Tuesday, August 15 2017
Web Link: https://apply.interfolio.com/43201

Applications are invited for a postdoctoral position in the Department of Earth and Planetary Sciences (http://eps.jhu.edu) at Johns Hopkins University working with the new SSERVI team Project ESPRESSO (https://www.espresso.institute). The Postdoctoral Fellow will be working under the supervision of Prof. Sarah Hörst (www.sarahhorst.com) but will be expected to participate as a full member of the Project ESPRESSO Team, which will include collaborations with Prof. Kevin Lewis in EPS and ESPRESSO Team Members at other institutions. The Postdoctoral Fellow’s primary responsibilities will include laboratory measurements of optical constants and a candidate with experience in these types of measurements and data analysis is preferred. Secondary responsibilities of the Postdoctoral Fellow will include participation in fieldwork and data analysis of geological materials using LIBS and Raman spectroscopy under the supervision of Prof. Kevin Lewis.  Additional opportunities may also be available to participate in microgravity flight campaigns and other Project ESPRESSO efforts. Dr. Hörst is committed to building a diverse and inclusive research group and candidates with a demonstrated history of efforts to improve diversity and inclusion in STEM are especially encouraged to apply.

The position is for one year, but renewable for up to a total of 5 years contingent on satisfactory performance. The position includes salary, benefits, and funding for travel to professional conferences and annual SSERVI team meetings. Johns Hopkins University has recently adopted a new policy on parental leave for Postdoctoral Fellows (https://www.jhu.edu/assets/uploads/2017/06/newchildaccommgradandpostdoc.pdf). The Department of Earth and Planetary Sciences and Prof. Hörst’s laboratory are housed in Olin Hall. All entrances and floors of Olin Hall are handicapped accessible. Olin Hall has 2 all gender bathrooms.

QUALIFICATIONS
Applicant must have a Ph.D. in a related field. 

APPLICATION INSTRUCTIONS
Applicants should submit their CV (including publications), a 1-2 page statement of research interests, and contact information including email addresses for 3 references. Please contact Prof. Hörst with any questions about the position ([email protected]). The deadline for applications is August 15, 2017.

Applications should be submitted using Interfolio https://apply.interfolio.com/43201

3-year postdoctoral position

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Current state: Approved and Notify DPS Secretary
City: Orsay
Category: , , , ,
Country: France
Contact Person: François Poulet
Contact Email: [email protected]
Institution: Institut d’Astrophysique Spatiale, Université Paris-Sud
Application Due Date: Friday, September 15 2017
Web Link: http://www.ptal.eu

The Institut d’Astrophysique Spatiale (IAS, University Paris Sud) is seeking for a 3-year postdoctoral fellowship on the Horizon-2020 funded program PTAL (Planetary Terrestrial Analogues Library). The PTAL project aims to build and exploit a multi-instrument spectral data base and joint spectral interpretation tools using various techniques (XRD, SEM, LIBS, IR and Raman spectroscopy), in order to support current and future investigations of planetary space missions.

The main purpose of the fellowship is to characterize well-defined rock and mineral samples with flight spare models and to compare the derived compositions of samples with remote and in situ data of instruments onboard planetary space missions (Martian missions, Hayabusa2, BepiColombo). The activities of the successful applicant shall consist in 1) acquiring near-infrared spectra of XRD- and SEM-characterized rock samples (resulting from field trips and alteration experiments) using flight spare models of MicrOmega (Hayabusa-2 and ExoMars20) and NIR lab spectrometers at IAS facilities, 2) acquiring LIBS spectra of the characterized samples using the qualification model of ChemCam/Mars Science Laboratory, 3) analyzing the NIR and LIBS spectral data and document these analyses, 4) performing coordinated analyses of the Martian surface from orbital and landed platforms with the new spectral data.

The PTAL consortium (https://ptal.eu/) consists of three partners, located in Norway (Oslo Univ.), France (Paris Sud Univ.) and Spain (Valladolid Univ.). The fellowship will have also the opportunity to be in contact with other research labs (Japan, Germany, France, USA). LIBS measurements will be performed at the IRAP/Toulouse laboratory who is in charge of the LIBS instrument onboard MSL.
Applicants are requested to submit a brief cover letter and curriculum vitae.
For further information and application submission please contact [email protected]

 

Assistant Professor of Planetary Materials

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Current state: Approved and Notify DPS Secretary
Department: Department of Earth, Atmospheric, and Planetary Sciences
City: West Lafayette
State/Province: IN
Category: , , , ,
Country: USA
Contact Person: Dr. Chris Andronicos
Contact Email: [email protected]
Institution: Purdue University
Application Due Date: Thursday, December 01 2016
Web Link: http://www.eaps.purdue.edu/about/employment.html

The Department of Earth, Atmospheric, and Planetary Sciences (EAPS), within the College of Science, Purdue University, invites applications for a tenure-track faculty position at the rank of Assistant Professor in the area of Planetary Materials. The Planetary Science Group within EAPS has an international reputation, extensive involvement in spacecraft missions, and newly developed undergraduate and graduate programs. We seek to grow and are looking for someone who conducts laboratory analysis of planetary materials or their terrestrial analogues. Candidates must have completed their PhD in an appropriate field. The appointee is expected to develop and maintain a vigorous, externally funded, internationally recognized research program and to teach and mentor students at the undergraduate and graduate levels. 

Applications should be submitted electronically at https://hiring.science.purdue.edu. Applications should include a curriculum vitae, a statement of research, a teaching statement, and contact information of three individuals who can provide letters of reference. Questions related to this position should be addressed to Dr. Chris Andronicos ([email protected]), Chair of the Search Committee. Review of applications will begin on December 1, 2016, and continue until the position is filled. 

Purdue University is an EOE/AA employer. All individuals, including minorities, women, individuals with disabilities, and veterans are encouraged to apply. 

Postdoctoral Researcher in Planetary Science

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Current state: Approved and Notify DPS Secretary
Department: Space Sector
City: Laurel
State/Province: Maryland
Category: , , , ,
Country: USA
Contact Person: Stacy Murphy
Contact Email: [email protected]
Institution: The Johns Hopkins University Applied Physics Laboratory
Application Due Date: Friday, September 15 2017
Web Link: https://jhuapl.taleo.net/careersection/2/jobdetail.ftl?job=12841

Introduction: The Johns Hopkins University Applied Physics Laboratory (APL), a national leader in scientific research and development, located midway between Baltimore and Washington, DC is seeking a Post-doctoral Researcher to undertake interdisciplinary planetary science research as part of the Space Exploration Sector’s Planetary Exploration Group. Job Summary: The successful candidate will engage in research on the thermal and physical properties of the lunar regolith and polar regions. Working with scientists on the Lunar Reconnaissance Orbiter mission, the candidate will analyze data from the Diviner and Mini-RF instruments. These data will be compared to other relevant data sets. A model will be developed to interpret the results with respect to the distribution and stability of volatiles in the lunar polar regions. A candidate who has experience in both remote sensing data analysis and computational modeling is especially desired. Duties (Listed in order of importance with the estimated amount of time spent at each task): Supporting the Diviner and Mini-RF science investigations, including participating in team meetings, conducting research, publishing results, and presenting the results at one or more professional conference yearly. (75%) Developing a thermal model of volatile stability in lunar regolith, including conducting research, publishing the results, and presenting the results at least one professional conference yearly. (25%) Note: This job summary and listing of duties is for the purpose of describing the position and its essential functions at time of hire and may change over time. Required Qualifications: • Doctorate in geology, planetary science, or applicable science or engineering field • A strong record of successful publication of research results • Demonstrated ability to manage time effectively on two or more projects Desired Qualifications: • Familiarity with Mini-RF or Diviner data sets • Publication record indicating expertise in remote sensing, computational modeling, or interaction of volatiles with surfaces Special Working Conditions (travel, working in closed areas, extended hours): Occasional travel to professional conferences. Security: Applicant selected will be subject to a government security clearance investigation and must meet the requirements for access to classified information. Eligibility requirements include U.S. citizenship. Equal Employment Opportunity: Johns Hopkins University/Applied Physics Laboratory (APL) is an Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action employer that complies with Title IX of the Education Amendments Acts of 1972, as well as other applicable laws. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, or protected Veteran status.

Planetary Scientist

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Current state: Approved and Notify DPS Secretary
Department: Heliophysics and Planetary Science
City: Huntsville
State/Province: Alabama
Category: , , , ,
Country: USA
Contact Person: Barbara Cohen
Contact Email: [email protected]
Institution: NASA Marshall Space Flight Center
Application Due Date: Friday, July 01 2016

This is an informal heads-up announcement. The Heliophysics and Planetary Science Office at NASA Marshall Space Flight Center anticipates filling a Planetary Scientist civil service position within the next several weeks. The candidate will fill a project scientist position for the Space Launch System (SLS), providing relevant expertise on Solar System destinations for human and robotic exploration. The candidate will also become a part of the MSFC Planetary Science group, focused on geologic investigation of planets, asteroids, and/or moons. We are especially interested in adding capability in remote sensing of solid surfaces to complement our existing expertise in geochronology and geophysics. The candidate is also expected to bring or build a strong independent scientific research program through peer-reviewed proposals to NASA programs and/or through involvement in NASA planetary missions.

All candidates must use the USAJobs.gov website to prepare and submit applications, and United States citizenship is required to be eligible for this civil service position. We anticipate filling the position at the GS-13 level with a starting date in mid-2016. We will announce the formal job posting data when it is available. Informal inquiries can be directed to Dr. Barbara Cohen, MSFC Planetary Sciences, [email protected], 256-961-7566. Our web site is http://planetary.msfc.nasa.gov. A how-to guide for preparing responsive applications using the USAJobs.gov site will be provided upon request.

Postdoc – Mars Science Laboratory rover mission

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Current state: Approved and Notify DPS Secretary
Department: Earth, Atmospheric, and Planetary Sciences
City: West Lafayette
State/Province: IN
Category: , , , ,
Country: USA
Contact Person: Briony Horgan
Contact Email: [email protected]
Institution: Purdue University
Application Due Date: Friday, May 06 2016

The Department of Earth, Atmospheric, and Planetary Sciences at Purdue University invites applications for a postdoctoral position in Mars geochemistry and mineralogy. The successful candidate will join Prof. Briony Horgan and the Mars Science Laboratory (MSL) rover science team starting in August/September 2016.

Duties will include laboratory analyses of terrestrial analog samples, processing and analysis of MSL data, participation in MSL operations and team activities, and processing and analysis of Mars orbital datasets.

Eligibility: All applicants must have a PhD in the field of geology or planetary science. U.S. Citizen or U.S. Permanent Resident status is also required per federal regulations.  Expertise in geochemistry, mineralogy, or spectroscopy is preferred.

A background check is required for employment in this position. Purdue University is an EOE/AA employer. Purdue University is an EOE/AA employer.  All individuals, including minorities, women, individuals with disabilities, and veterans are encouraged to apply.

For further information, please send your CV to Briony Horgan, [email protected], by May 6, 2016.

Faculty position in planetary petrology/mineralogy/geochemistry

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Current state: Approved and Notify DPS Secretary
Department: Earth & Planetary Sciences
City: Knoxville
State/Province: Tennessee
Category: ,
Country: USA
Contact Person: Hap McSween
Contact Email: [email protected]
Institution: University of Tennessee, Knoxville
Application Due Date: Tuesday, December 15 2015
Web Link: http://eps.utk.edu/

The Department of Earth & Planetary Sciences at The University of Tennessee seeks to fill a faculty position in petrology/mineralogy/geochemistry with emphasis in planetary geoscience. The position is for an open-rank (tenure-track or tenured); we would prefer to select a candidate at the Associate or Full Professor level, but welcome applications for Assistant Professor. The position begins August 1, 2016. The University of Tennessee, Knoxville is a Research I University and the flagship campus of the UT system. The Department (http://web.utk.edu/~pgi). Requirements for the position are:  Ph.D. in geology or a related field, and demonstrated research experience in planetary geoscience.

The successful candidate is expected to conduct a robust, funded program of planetary research, mentor graduate students, effectively teach courses in petrology and/or mineralogy at the undergraduate and graduate levels, and collaborate in department research dealing with petrology, mineralogy, geochemistry, and solar system exploration. Salary and benefits are competitive and commensurate with experience. The Knoxville campus of the University of Tennessee is seeking candidates who have the ability to contribute in meaningful ways to the diversity and intercultural goals of the University.

To apply, please email the following [email protected] <

Research Scientist/Sr. Research Scientist

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Current state: Approved and Notify DPS Secretary
Department: Space Sciences and Engineering
City: San Antonio
State/Province: Texas
Category: , , , ,
Country: USA
Institution: Southwest Research Institute
Application Due Date: Wednesday, June 10 2015
Web Link: https://resapp.swri.org/ResApp/Job_Search_Results.aspx?DETAIL=15-01144

The UV imaging spectrograph group at SwRI is seeking postdoctoral to mid-career planetary scientists to join our team’s investigations of a variety of science questions using far-UV observations. Topics of study include: 1) Characterization of volatiles within permanently shaded regions at the lunar poles with the Lyman Alpha Mapping Project (LAMP) imaging spectrograph on the Lunar Reconnaissance Orbiter (LRO); 2) Imaging Jupiter’s powerful auroral emissions with the Juno UV Spectrograph (UVS); 3) Studying the atmosphere of Pluto with the New Horizons Alice instrument; 4) Analysis of Hubble campaign observations in search of water vapor plumes on Europa; and/or 5) Instrument development work related to the Jupiter Icy Moons Explorer (JUICE) UVS investigation and other future UV/optical projects in Astrophysics, Planetary Science, Heliophysics, and Earth Sciences. Candidates are encouraged to develop their own additional research projects.

 

Must have experience with imaging and/or spectroscopy from space-based or ground-based observatories. Strong programming skills with Interactive Data Language (IDL) is preferred. A background in scientific analysis and publications related to one or more of the topics listed above is highly desirable. Specific tasks include: analyze UV spectral imaging datasets; assist with planning future observations; publish results in peer-reviewed journals and presentations at professional meetings; develop concepts and new technologies for UV/Vis/IR instrumentation; assist with flight instrument integration, test and calibration tasks; lead and/or assist proposal writing for new business.

 

Postdoctoral candidates are referenced to job posting number 15-01143. Research Scientist/Senior Research Scientist candidates with (or soon to have) 2-3 years of postdoctoral experience may reference job code 15-01144.

 

An Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action Employer

Minority/Female/Disabled/Veteran

Committed to Diversity in the Workplace

Simulation Developer for Physics-based Space Game

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Current state: Approved and Notify DPS Secretary
City: Seattle
State/Province: WA
Category: , , , ,
Country: USA
Contact Person: Dan Dixon
Contact Email: [email protected]
Application Due Date: Thursday, January 15 2015
Web Link: http://universesandbox.com/blog/2014/12/hiring-a-planetary-scientist/

Giant Army is looking for a planetary scientist or astronomer with a strong scientific computing background to join our team. You should be interested in helping us extend, improve, and develop the physical simulations at the heart of Universe Sandbox ². This is a contract position, but has the potential to become more permanent.

You will work closely with Giant Army’s current astronomer, as well as the creator of Universe Sandbox, in addition to our climate scientist, core game architect, numerical physics developer, graphics programmer, and technical artist.

Join us… we’re making something incredible that’s never been done before.

Your Role

  • Help design, improve, and code the real-time simulation, which merges the gravity simulator with other simulated systems and incorporates as much realistic science as possible
  • Help discover simulation edge cases and develop solutions to solve them
  • Advise the team on how to best make the simulation, data, and visuals more realistic
  • Some potential areas for development include connecting composition and physical properties, gas giant atmospheres, habitability, major impact aftermath, and your favorite project

 Ideal Candidate

  • Loves physics simulations and fantastical what-if scenarios: https://what-if.xkcd.com/
  • Is a self-driven and talented programmer with experience developing numerical models in a compiled language using modern developer best-practices
  • Writes clean code that is comprehensible to teammates
  • Is excited about developing a tool that allows users to experiment with simulations, pushing the boundaries of what has been done in real-time for public consumption
  • Can envision what makes the best interactive experience with physical concepts, and how best to crunch the numbers to make it happen

Mandatory Qualifications

  • Planetary science || (astronomy && (physics || chemistry)) background
  • Simulation design and coding experience
  • Strong enthusiasm for using models to explore both realistic and fantastical what-if scenarios
  • Strong interest in helping change the way the world perceives our universe and fragile planet
  • Good communication skills and proficiency in English, both writing and speaking

Preferred Qualifications

  • (Strong C# && Unity Engine experience) || (Experience with an entity component model && object-oriented programing)
  • M.S. or PhD in relevant field
  • Ability to meet in person at least once a month in Seattle, WA, United States, but will consider outstanding candidates from anywhere in the world

Company Overview

Giant Army is the company behind Universe Sandbox, a space simulator that’s sold hundreds of thousands of copies on Steam. Our headquarters are in Seattle, Washington, USA, with team members in Montana, Florida, Germany, and Denmark.

Team members enjoy a flexible, collaborative environment. We strive for work-life balance, and we pursue the features that get us excited about science. We do the work so that we can share that with others. We’re also committed to creating an accessible experience that can’t be found elsewhere.

Science is for everyone, and we welcome all qualified applicants.

Product Overview

Universe Sandbox ² is our core product that lets the user explore and learn about our amazing universe and fragile planet while creating and destroying on a scale they’ve never before imagined. It’s more than a game; it’s a way of experiencing and learning about reality in a way that’s never been done before. Early alpha access now available for Windows, Mac, and Linux.

How to Apply

Email us: jobs at universesandbox.com In the email please include:

  • Relevant email subject
  • Link to or copy of your resume or CV
  • Answer to these two questions:
    • What is the most appealing part of this opportunity?
    • What feature would you be most interested in adding or helping make better?
  • Where you originally heard about this job posting

Post-doctoral Research Associate

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Current state: Approved and Notify DPS Secretary
City: Flagstaff
State/Province: AZ
Category: , , , ,
Country: USA
Contact Person: Dr Henry Roe
Contact Email: [email protected]
Institution: Lowell Observatory
Application Due Date: Monday, December 15 2014
Web Link: http://www.lowell.edu/documents/jobs/Post%20Doctoral%20Research%20Associate%202014-22.pdf

Applications are invited for a postdoctoral position at Lowell Observatory to work on an investigation of solids and liquids in the outer solar system, in particular relating to the surfaces of Titan and Kuiper Belt Objects. The project links theory, laboratory experiments, and observations. This postdoc position will focus on laboratory experiments in the Northern Arizona University (NAU) Astrophysical Ice Lab, but will include opportunities to work on observations and theory as well.  This position will be co-supervised by Drs. Henry Roe and Will Grundy. 

The initial appointment is for three years with an additional two year extension expected based on performance. The start date is negotiable, but preferably in early 2015. This position is funded by a 5-year grant from the John and Maureen Hendricks Charitable Foundation and comes with a competitive salary and full benefits, including relocation. Additional funding is available for research resources, such as lab and computer equipment, attending conferences, or other research-related travel.

For more information see:
http://www.lowell.edu/about_jobs.php
http://www.lowell.edu/documents/jobs/Post%20Doctoral%20Research%20Associ…

Applications received by 15-Dec-2014 will be given full consideration. Later applications will be considered until the position is filled.