Postdoctoral Research Scientist

University of Colorado System; Allenspark (CO); On-site; USD 86,000 - 94,000; Full time

Job summary

University of Colorado Boulder’s Space Plasma Group is seeking a research scientist (RS1) to conduct space plasma physics research, focusing on wave-particle interactions and data analysis from PSP and Van Allen Probes missions.

The role involves developing an independent research program, publishing results, and potentially supervising undergraduates, with onsite work required at least four days weekly. The position is 1 year, extendable based on performance.

Qualifications

• PhD in Physics, Astronomy, or related field.
• Experience in scientific programming, Python preferred.
• Experience conducting research on plasma wave physics in the space environment.
• Demonstrated experience creating clear and concise scientific writing for publication.

Responsibilities

• Carry out analysis of data from Parker Solar Probe and Van Allen Probes spacecraft.
• Analyze plasma wave data and compare with predictions from plasma wave theory for ion acoustic and whistler-mode waves.
• Write scientific publications based on data analysis and present at conferences.
• Possibly supervise undergraduate students.
• Other duties as assigned.

Skills

Scientific programming

Python

Plasma wave physics

Space environment

Scientific writing

Education

PhD in Physics/Astronomy/related field

Job description

Job Summary

The Space Plasma Group at the University of Colorado’s Laboratoryfor Atmospheric and Space Physics (LASP) is seeking to fill 1research scientist position in space plasma physics. We are seekingresearchers at the Research Scientist 1 (RS1, postdoc-equivalent)level.

The CU/LASP Space Plasma Group conducts a diverse research programencompassing instrumentation, data analysis, simulation, andtheoretical studies of space plasma physics in a variety ofenvironments, including planetary magnetospheres and ionospheres aswell as the solar wind.

Research duties include conducting studies of wave-particleinteractions and other plasma phenomena in heliosphericenvironments. The successful candidate will collaborate with SPGgroup members and seek to develop an independent research program.This position will include data analysis or simulation/modelinginvestigations using data from NASA’s Parker Solar Probe mission(PSP), and the Van Allen Probes mission, to address fundamentalquestions about wave-particle interactions and other space plasmaphenomena.

CU is an Equal Opportunity Employer and complies with allapplicable federal, state, and local laws governingnondiscrimination in employment. We are committed to creating aworkplace where all individuals are treated with respect anddignity, and we encourage individuals from all backgrounds toapply, including protected veterans and individuals withdisabilities.

Who We Are

Founded a decade before NASA, the Laboratory for Atmospheric and Space Physics(LASP) at the University of Colorado Boulder is revolutionizinghuman understanding of the cosmos. LASP is deeply committed toinspiring and educating the next generation of space explorers.From enabling the first exploratory rocket measurements of Earth’supper atmosphere to trailblazing observations of every planet inthe solar system, LASP is at the forefront of solar, planetary andspace physics research, space-weather monitoring, and the searchfor evidence of habitable worlds.

LASP advances scientific discovery and inspires the next generationthrough research, innovation, and education in space sciences. Weemploy over 700 scientists, engineers, support personnel, andstudents that work closely to cultivate creative ideas and explorenovel solutions to make the impossible possible.

LASP is dedicated to building and maintaining a unique synergism ofexpertise in space science, engineering, and spacecraft operations.Through research projects, LASP participates actively in thetraining of the future leaders of space research and helps theUniversity of Colorado to educate students with valued technicaland scientific skills. Development and use of innovativetechnologies and continuing participation in new researchinitiatives ensures a strong leadership role for LASP into thefuture.

LASP is proud of our work environment that supports employeecreativity and productivity and offers opportunities for a broadrange of experiences. Further information about LASP can be foundhere: https://lasp.colorado.edu/home/.

What Your Key Responsibilities Will Be

• The applicant is expected to carry out analysis of data fromthe Parker Solar Probe and Van Allen Probes spacecraft.
• Analysis of plasma wave data and comparison of data withpredictions from plasma wave theory for both ion acoustic waves andwhistler-mode plasma waves.
• The applicant is expected to write scientific publicationsbased on this data analysis and attend conferences to presentrecent work to the broader scientific community.
• The applicant may supervise undergraduate students.
• Other duties as assigned.

What You Should Know

• Onsite presence required at least 4 days per week.
• The position is 1 year, extendable for 1 additional yearpending acceptable performance during the first year.

What We Can Offer

• $ 86,800.00 - $ 94,300.00 per year.

Benefits

At the University of Colorado Boulder , we arecommitted to supporting the holistic health and well-being of ouremployees. Our comprehensive benefits package includes medical,dental, and retirement plans; generous paid time off; tuitionassistance for you and your dependents; and an ECO Pass for localtransit. As one of Boulder County’s largest employers, CU Boulderoffers an inspiring academic community and access to world-classoutdoor recreation. Explore additional perks and programs throughthe CU Advantage program.

Be Statements

Be ambitious. Be groundbreaking. Be Boulder.

What We Require

• PhD in Physics, Astronomy, or related field.

What You Will Need

• Experience in scientific programming, Python preferred.
• Experience conducting research on plasma wave physics in thespace environment.
• Demonstrated experience creating clear and concise scientificwriting for publication.

What We Would Like You to Have

• Experience conducting research on VLF plasma waves in Earth'sinner magnetosphere.
• Demonstrated experience examining spacecraft data from plasmawave instruments.