Chemistry of Planetary and Exoplanetary Atmospheres

ORAU; Pasadena (CA); On-site; USD 60,000 - 80,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading aerospace research organization seeks a postdoctoral researcher to develop novel instrument techniques for infrared remote sensing and planetary chemistry. The role, located in Pasadena, California, encourages research in habitability evolution and biosignatures for exoplanets. Candidates must possess a doctoral degree; U.S. citizens and permanent residents are eligible to apply. Interested applicants should submit proposals including recommendation letters and official transcripts. The deadline is 11/1/2026.

Qualifications

• Develop novel instrument techniques based on IR heterodyne remote sensing.
• Conduct research in habitability evolution and biosignatures for exoplanets.

Education

Doctoral Degree

Job description

Organization

National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA)

Reference Code

0020-NPP-NOV26-JPL-PlanetSci

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 postdoctoral researcher will develop novel instrument techniques based on IR heterodyne remote sensing, nano-photonics, and photonic integrated circuits. Our objective is to enable new measurement capabilities for studying planetary chemistry, habitability, astrobiology, and climate evolution.

Researchers in exoplanetary science are strongly encouraged to apply as well. We are developing a coupled ocean-rock-atmosphere chemistry model for extrasolar planets and welcome applicants to conduct research in habitability evolution and biosignatures for exoplanets.

Location

Jet Propulsion Laboratory, Pasadena, California

Field of Science

Planetary Science

Advisors

Pin Chen
[e-mail]
818-393-0412

Eligibility

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 is currently open to:

• 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

Point of Contact

Mikeala

Eligibility Requirements

• Degree: Doctoral Degree.