Astrophysics: Cosmic Origins, Galaxy Evolution and Spacecraft Mission Concepts

ORAU; Greenbelt (MD); On-site; USD 60,000 - 85,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading aerospace research organization offers a unique opportunity through the NASA Postdoctoral Program for highly talented scientists to engage in significant research at NASA facilities or affiliated institutions. Candidates will delve into topics such as the evolution of galaxies and cosmic phenomena. A Doctoral Degree is required, alongside skills in observational astronomy and programming with Python, among other qualifications. This competitive fellowship spans one to three years, providing substantial opportunities for scientific advancement.

Responsibilities

• Conduct independent research on cosmic origins.
• Engage in projects related to galactic structures and black holes.
• Develop technologies for astrophysics missions.

Skills

Observational astronomy techniques

Python programming

Scientific writing

Collaboration and team-building

Education

Doctoral Degree

Job description

Organization

National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA)

Reference Code

0308-NPP-NOV26-GSFC-Astrophys

How to Apply

All applications must be submitted in Zintellect.

Please visit the NASA Postdoctoral Program website for application instructions and requirements: How to Apply | NASA Postdoctoral Program (orau.org).

A complete application to the NASA Postdoctoral Program includes:

• Research proposal
• Three letters of recommendation
• Official doctoral transcript documents

Application Deadline

11/1/2026 6:00:59 PM Eastern Time Zone

Description

The NASA Postdoctoral Program (NPP) offers unique research opportunities to highly talented scientists to engage in ongoing NASA research projects at a NASA Center, NASA Headquarters, or at a NASA-affiliated research institute. These one- to three-year fellowships are competitive and are designed to advance NASA’s missions in space science, Earth science, aeronautics, space operations, exploration systems, and astrobiology.

This is an opportunity to conduct independent research on our cosmic origins. Areas of interest may include, but are not limited to, the evolution of galaxies: dwarf galaxies, high-redshift galaxies and their local analogues, Active Galactic Nuclei (AGN) and supermassive black holes, including their formation and evolution, cosmic ecosystems including galactic outflows and the circumgalactic medium. Methods of investigation may include analyses of archival multi-wavelength observations from space- and ground-based facilities, as well as new observations and analyses. Additional interests include development of new technologies and innovative astrophysics spacecraft mission concepts, such as hybrid observatories and investigations from the lunar surface as well as the Habitable Worlds Observatory.

Field of Science

Astrophysics

Advisors

Peter Kurczynski

Email: [e-mail]

Phone: [phone]

Applications with citizens from Designated Countries will not be accepted at this time, unless they are Legal Permanent Residents of the United States. A complete list of Designated Countries can be found at: https://www.nasa.gov/oiir/export-control.

Eligibility

• U.S. Citizens
• U.S. Lawful Permanent Residents (LPR)
• Foreign Nationals eligible for an Exchange Visitor J-1 visa status
• Applicants for LPR, asylees, or refugees in the U.S. at the time of application with 1) a valid EAD card and 2) I-485 or I-589 forms in pending status

Questions about this opportunity? Please email [e-mail]

Qualifications

Skills and Experience:

• Methods and techniques of observational astronomy.
• Computer programming in languages such as Python.
• Oral and written communication skills, including scientific and technical writing, experience writing scientific proposals.
• Collaboration and team-building skills including capacity to develop productive professional relationships based on empathy and trust.

Point of Contact

Mikeala

Eligibility Requirements

• Degree: Doctoral Degree.