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