Laboratory Studies of Chemistry on Titan's Surface

ORAU; Pasadena (CA); On-site; USD 65,000 - 90,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive fellowships

Access to advanced instrumentation and facilities

Job summary

A prestigious research institution is seeking a researcher in planetary science to conduct experiments on Titan and develop advanced probes for in-situ characterization. The role requires a doctoral degree in a relevant field and experience in spectroscopy or experimental physical chemistry. Candidates should have a strong research publication track record. This position offers competitive fellowships and access to advanced instrumentation.

Qualifications

• Experience in spectroscopy, ultrahigh vacuum techniques, and/or experimental physical chemistry.
• Strong record of research publications relevant to Titan or planetary science.
• Strong publication record in Titan or planetary science literature.

Responsibilities

• Conduct experiments to examine solubility, precipitation, photochemistry, and low‐temperature thermal reactions of organic molecules.
• Develop and test ultraviolet and infrared fiber optic probes for in‐situ characterization.
• Analyze data and contribute to publications on Titan and related planetary science.

Skills

Spectroscopy

In‑situ instrumentation

Data analysis

Publications in planetary science

Education

Doctoral degree in Chemistry, Physics, Geology, Planetary Science, or related field

Tools

Ultrahigh vacuum techniques

Job description

Organization

National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA)

Location

Jet Propulsion Laboratory, Pasadena, California

Field of Science

Planetary Science

Description

Our group performs a wide array of experiments to study the chemical processes that control the evolution and composition of Titan’s surface. Solubility, precipitation, photochemistry, and low‐temperature thermal reactions are studied using infrared, Raman and ultraviolet spectroscopies, optical microscopy, synchrotron X‑ray diffraction and neutron diffraction. Current research focuses on the formation of organic co‑crystals at low temperature, and the reactivity of carbon dioxide with amines to form carbamic acid. We are also developing ultraviolet and infrared fiber optic probes for the in situ chemical characterization of Titan’s lakes.

Responsibilities

• Conduct experiments to examine solubility, precipitation, photochemistry, and low‑temperature thermal reactions of organic molecules.
• Develop and test ultraviolet and infrared fiber optic probes for in‑situ characterization.
• Analyze data and contribute to publications on Titan and related planetary science.

Qualifications

• Doctoral degree in Chemistry, Physics, Geology, Planetary Science, or related field.
• Experience in spectroscopy, ultrahigh vacuum techniques, and/or experimental physical chemistry.
• Strong record of research publications relevant to Titan or planetary science (see cited examples).

Eligibility

• U.S. Citizens, U.S. Lawful Permanent Residents, Foreign Nationals eligible for an Exchange Visitor J‑1 visa, and applicants for LPR, asylees, or refugees with a valid EAD card and pending I‑485 or I‑589.
• Applications from citizens of Designated Countries will not be accepted unless the applicant is a Legal Permanent Resident of the United States.

Benefits and Opportunities

Competitive one‑to‑three year fellowships with access to advanced instrumentation and facilities at JPL.

Contact

Robert Hodyss, [e-mail], 818‑205‑4990. Point of Contact: Mikeala.