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.