Southwest Research Institute's Solar System Science & Exploration Division is located in Boulder, Colorado. We conduct basic observational, modeling, and theoretical research in a wide range of solar system and astrophysical topics, including Solar Physics/ Heliophysics, Planetary Science, Astrophysics, Origins Research, and Geophysics. We also participate and/or lead several NASA orbital and deep space missions, including New Horizons (Pluto), Mars Science Laboratory (Mars), Lucy (Jovian Trojans), PUNCH (Sun) and Solar Orbiter (Sun).
Objectives of this Role:
Work on data analysis, modeling, and other scientific activities associated with the Radiation Assessment Detector (RAD), which is a heliophysics instrument on the Mars Science Laboratory (MSL), and has been operating on the surface of Mars since August 2012.
Participate in operations, data reduction, analysis, modeling and publication of scientific results from RAD.
The successful candidate is also encouraged to develop his/her own research program and participate in proposals for future projects.
Daily and Monthly Responsibilities:
Serve as Postdoctoral Scientist for the RAD instrument and participate in the operations, data reduction, analysis and modeling of the RAD instrument.
Present the results at Team Meetings and other international Scientific Meetings (e.g. AGU, AAS, etc.)
Have an opportunity to participate in the development and characterization of new instrumentation and technologies similar to MSL/ RAD, that are being developed at SwRI.
Requirements:
Requires a PhD in Physics, Astrophysics, Astronomy or equivalent degree field
2 years: Experience as a graduate student in heliophysics and/or space weather related science.
Demonstrated knowledge in data reduction and analysis is required.
Proficiency in Python (or similar) and CME and/or solar energetic particle propagation modeling is highly desirable.
Good communication skills and be willing to work both independently and in a group setting.
Special Requirements:
Work assignment is in Boulder, Colorado. This is a 1 year limited term assignment.
Job Locations: Boulder, Colorado
Salary Range: $70,000.00 - $90,000.00
For more information about this division, visit the Solar System Science & Exploration home page.
For benefits information at our San Antonio location, click here. For benefits information at all other locations, click here.
An Equal Employment Opportunity/Affirmative Action Employer Race/Color/Religion/Sex/Sexual Orientation/Gender Identity/National Origin/Disabled/Veteran Committed to Diversity in the Workplace
