Category: Surface Geology

Postdoctoral Researcher (Visiting) (Geochemistry and petrology)

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Current state: Approved and Notify DPS Secretary
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=371645&lang=en_US&source=CC4

The Lunar and Planetary Institute (LPI), part of the Universities Space Research Association, invites applications for a postdoctoral fellowship in the area of geochemistry and petrology of extraterrestrial materials.

The successful candidate will work as part of a team of planetary scientists at NASA Johnson Space Center in Houston, Texas. The project is funded by NASA to investigate the effect of shock on H mobility in nominally anhydrous minerals and apatite. The work will involve impact shock experiments on geological materials, and their analysis by a variety of in-situ techniques.  Candidates with a strong background in petrology or geochemistry, and preferably experience with H analysis by FTIR or SIMS and shock effects and experimental petrology in minerals and meteorites, are encouraged to apply.

Completion of the PhD by the beginning of the appointment is required. The position would be for one year, with a possible extension to a second year. The candidate must be able to pass a detailed government background investigation. Technical questions should be addressed to Dr. Anne Peslier ([email protected]). Interested applicants should apply to the posting before October 1, 2020 at USRA Careers and must submit a cover letter, curriculum vitae with list of publications, a two- to three-page statement of research interests and plans, and a list of at least three professional references. For general information about LPI please go to https://www.lpi.usra.edu/.

USRA is an independent, nonprofit research corporation where the combined efforts of in-house talent and university-based expertise merge to advance space science and technology. USRA works across disciplines including biomedicine, planetary science, astrophysics, and engineering and integrates those competencies into applications ranging from fundamental research to facility management and operations.

USRA is an Equal Opportunity Employer: Minorities / Females / Protected Veterans / Disabled / Sexual Orientation / Gender Identity.

Research Space Scientist

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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 Scientist, Planetary Interiors and Geophysics

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Current state: Approved and Notify DPS Secretary
City: Pasadena
State/Province: CA
Category: , ,
Country: USA
Contact Person: Cheryl Cooperstein
Contact Email: [email protected]
Institution: Jet Propulsion Laboratory
Application Due Date: Tuesday, May 26 2020
Web Link: http://jpl.jobs/jobs/2020-11799-Research-Scientist-II

The Jet Propulsion Laboratory invites applications for a Scientist who will bring new expertise to and ensure continuity of existing capabilities at JPL in planetary science. The successful candidate will develop models for the chemical evolution of Europa, Enceladus, Titan, Ganymede, and other ocean worlds in support of the Icy Worlds, Titan, and Vital Signs teams. The candidate will investigate the detailed chemical evolution of Europa’s interior and its ice. Perform NASA funded research, including setting up and conducting novel experiments to measure chemical properties and processes applicable to planetary interiors. Investigate the metamorphic evolution of Ceres’s rocky mantle and support mission formulation as a subject matter expert on ocean world chemistry.

This position requires the following qualifications:

  • PhD in geochemistry, planetary geophysics, or a related field.
  • 3-4 years expertise in applying meteoritics, petrology, aqueous geochemistry to problems in astrobiology.

The following qualifications are preferred:

  • Knowledge of geophysical forward modeling and inverse theory, high-pressure experimental design and implementation.

Complete applications will include a cover letter describing the applicant’s vision for their role at JPL as a leader and contributor in planetary science research, a curriculum vita including a bibliography of refereed and other work, a statement on research experience and research objectives, and contact information for at least three professional references.

Applications are due by May 26, 2020 or until filled and should be submitted at:

https://jpl.jobs/jobs/2020-11799-Research-Scientist-II

 

JPL Postdoctoral Fellow

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Current state: Approved and Notify DPS Secretary
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.

Research Physical Scientist

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Current state: Approved and Notify DPS Secretary
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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Current state: Approved and Notify DPS Secretary
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

Graduate Student Research Opportunities in Planetary Science at Tulane University

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Current state: Approved
Department: Earth and Environmental Sciences
City: New Orleans
State/Province: Louisiana
Category: ,
Country: USA
Contact Person: Jennifer Whitten or Colin Jackson
Contact Email: [email protected]
Institution: Tulane University
Application Due Date: Tuesday, December 31 2019
Web Link: https://sse.tulane.edu/academics/graduate/admissions

The Department of Earth and Environmental Sciences at Tulane University seeks highly motivated students with an interest in pursuing graduate studies in planetary science. Opportunities are available within the general area of planetary surface processes with Dr. Whitten and planetary accretion with Dr. Jackson.                                                                                                                                                                                                                                
For more information regarding specific research topics, please contact:                                                                                                                             
                                                                                                                                    
Dr. Jennifer Whitten                                                                                                                 
[email protected] <http://whitten.wp.tulane.edu                                                                                                         
                                                                                                                                    
or                                                                                                                                   
                                                                                                                                    
Dr. Colin Jackson                                                                                                                    
[email protected] <https://colinjackson.wp.tulane.edu/                                                                                                  
                                                                                                                                    
Applications are due December 31, 2019                                                                                               
https://sse.tulane.edu/academics/graduate/admissions
 

Ph.D. Student Opportunity in Regolith Processes

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Current state: Approved
City: College Park
State/Province: Maryland
Category: , ,
Country: USA
Contact Person: Christine Hartzell
Contact Email: [email protected]
Institution: University of Maryland
Application Due Date: Tuesday, December 31 2019

Two funded research assistantships are available for students pursuing graduate studies at the University of Maryland, working with Dr. Christine Hartzell. One project will focus on triboelectric charging of lunar regolith and exploration vehicles.   A second project will focus on the influence of magnetic forces on avalanches on metallic asteroids with remnant magnetic fields. Both projects will have a strong emphasis on computational modeling, with experimental validation of models following in later years. Students with backgrounds in physics, astronomy, math or engineering are encouraged to apply. For more information, please contact Dr. Hartzell at  [email protected] . UMD is located 15mins from NASA Goddard and 30mins from the Johns Hopkins University Applied Physics Lab, making it a rich location for collaborative planetary science research.
 

Assistant Professor in Planetary Science, University of Washington, Seattle

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Current state: Approved and Notify DPS Secretary
Department: Earth & Space Sciences
City: Seattle
State/Province: Washington
Category: , ,
Country: USA
Contact Email: [email protected]
Institution: University of Washington
Application Due Date: Sunday, December 01 2019
Web Link: https://apply.interfolio.com/69115

The University of Washington seeks an outstanding scientist working at the forefront of planetary research in surfaces,              
atmospheres, or interiors of planets, exoplanets, or moons. The opening is for a tenure-track Assistant Professor in the             
Department of Earth & Space Sciences.                                                                                                
                                                                                                                                    
The new faculty member will be specialized in one or more of the following: geology, geomorphology, geochemistry, glaciology, or     
geophysics of planets and interactions with their atmospheres and oceans. They may focus on observations, experiments, and/or        
modeling. We seek a colleague who can contribute collaboratively within the department, college, and across campus, for example,     
the university?s cross-campus Astrobiology Program. Current or potential involvement in planetary exploration and/or use of          
remote sensing data is desirable but not essential.                                                                                  
                                                                                                                                    
Candidates should demonstrate the potential to build an internationally recognized research program that addresses questions of      
fundamental significance. Candidates should also show potential for high quality undergraduate and graduate teaching. Applicants     
must hold a Ph.D. or foreign equivalent in Geophysics, Geology, Planetary Sciences, or a related field at the time of                
appointment.
 

For full applications details, please see:         https://apply.interfolio.com/69115 

Post-Doctoral Research Assistant at the Florida Space Institute/University of Central Florida in Small-Body Planetary Sciences

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Current state: Approved and Notify DPS Secretary
Department: Florida Space Institute
City: Orlando
State/Province: Florida
Category: , , , ,
Country: USA
Contact Person: Julie Brisset
Contact Email: [email protected]
Institution: University of Central Florida
Application Due Date: Thursday, October 31 2019
Web Link: https://jobs.ucf.edu/cw/en-us/job/498004

Job Description:

The Florida Space Institute (FSI) at the University of Central Florida (UCF) invites applications for a postdoctoral associate position to carry out research on the physical processes on the surface of small bodies such as asteroids. The successful candidate will be expected to investigate material and mechanical properties of asteroid simulants under relevant conditions. Research will be performed with various instrumentation at the Florida Space Institute and supplemental hardware may be developed to carry out experiments. Additionally, the successful candidate will perform numerical simulations of the behavior of granular material by adapting existing Discrete Element Model code, under guidance from our collaborator at the University of Colorado Boulder. Supervision of undergraduate research assistants and publishing research results in peer-reviewed journals is expected.

The position is expected to have a start date before November 2019 and is renewable annually for up to three years.

FSI is associated with the Center for Lunar and Asteroid Surface Science (CLASS) and the Arecibo Observatory, providing exciting opportunities for collaboration and networking. The University of Central Florida is a thriving preeminent research university located in metropolitan Orlando. With more than 66,000 students, UCF is one of the largest universities in the U.S. The university benefits from a diverse faculty and staff who create a welcoming environment and opportunities for all students to grow, learn and succeed. We encourage you to learn more about UCF at https://www.ucf.edu/.

Minimum Qualifications:

A Ph.D. from an accredited institution in physics, astronomy, astrophysics, planetary sciences, or a related field is required.

Preferences:

Experience in the following is of interest:

  • Hands-on experience in hardware design, manufacturing, and operation;

  • Laboratory work with cryogenic samples;

  • Mentoring of undergraduate students;

  • One or more of the following coding languages: IDL, Python, C, C++, Fortran.

EEO Employer:

As an equal opportunity/affirmative action employer, UCF encourages all qualified applicants to apply, including women, veterans, individuals with disabilities, and members of traditionally underrepresented populations. UCF’s Equal Opportunity Statement can be viewed at: http://www.oie.ucf.edu/documents/PresidentsStatement.pdf. As a Florida public university, UCF makes all application materials and selection procedures available to the public upon request.

UCF requires all applications and supporting documents to be submitted electronically through the Human Resources website, at https://jobs.ucf.edu/cw/en-us/job/498004. In addition to the online application, interested candidates should upload a curriculum vitae and a brief description of prior research experience.

Additional Application Materials Required:

In addition to the online application, candidates must also submit:

  1. Full curriculum vitae;

  2. Cover letter describing their related experience;

  3. Statement of research interests;

  4. Names, addresses and emails of three people willing to write letters of recommendation

Questions may be directed to:

Dr. Julie Brisset, Associate Researcher

Florida Space Institute

[email protected]