Research Scientist

UT Dallas; Richardson (TX); On-site; USD 65,000 - 75,000; Full time

Job summary

The University of Texas at Dallas (UTD) is seeking to fill two Research Scientists in the W. B. Hanson Center for Space Sciences.

The Center conducts fundamental and applied ITM studies using space and ground-based resources as well as numerical modeling. The successful candidates will contribute to NASA’s Geospace Dynamics Constellation Trailblazer mission, including development of analysis tools for thermal plasma instruments.

Qualifications

• Master's degree in a field directly related to the specified research area and two (2) years of directly applicable experience conducting research related to the specified field of study.
• PhD in space physics or a closely related field is preferred and demonstrates commitment to excellence in research.

Responsibilities

• Complement the research capabilities of the Center, especially in ionosphere-thermosphere coupling.
• Develop analysis tools and research related to thermal plasma instruments as part of the Center’s ongoing efforts.

Education

Master's degree in a field directly related to ITM, space physics, or related field

PhD preferred

Job description

Salary Range $65,000-$75,000 Dependent on Qualifications

Pay Basis

Pay Basis Monthly

Position Status

Position Status Regular full-time

Location

Position End Date (if temporary)

Posting Open Date

Posting Open Date 09/16/2026

Posting Close Date

Open Until Filled Yes

Desired Start Date

Desired Start Date 11/02/2026

Job Summary

The University of Texas at Dallas ( UTD ) is seeking to fill 2 Research Scientists in the W. B. Hanson Center for Space Sciences. The Center has a vigorous research program associated with fundamental and applied studies of the Earth’s ionosphere-thermosphere-magnetosphere ( ITM ) system using space and ground-based experimental resources as well as numerical modeling.

There are currently nine Earth-orbiting platforms with CSS thermal plasma instruments on board. The Center has been selected to provide the Thermal Plasma Sensor ( TPS ) instrument for NASA’s Geospace Dynamics Constellation ( GDC ) Trailblazer mission with the expectation of future GDC missions. GDC is a satellite mission designed to investigate the coupling between the ionosphere and thermosphere and their response to external energy inputs. It will dramatically improve our understanding of the near-Earth environment and how disturbances (space weather) there impact human technology and society. The candidates will be expected to be a major part of this exciting mission.

Minimum Education and Experience

Master’s degree in a field directly related to specified research area and two (2) years of directly applicable experience conducting research related to the specified field of study.

Preferred Education and Experience

A PhD or equivalent in space physics or a closely related field and a demonstrated commitment to excellence in research.

Other Qualifications

To the extent this position requires the holder to research, work on, or have access to critical infrastructure as defined in Section 117.001(2) of the Texas Business and Commerce Code, the ability to maintain the security or integrity of the critical infrastructure is a minimum qualification to be hired and to continue to be employed in the position.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities

Candidates for this position should be capable of complementing the research capabilities of the Center, in particular in the area of ionosphere-thermosphere coupling. The candidates will be especially involved in the development of analysis tools and research associated with the thermal plasma instruments that are a major part of the Center’s historical and ongoing efforts.

Physical Demands and Working Conditions

Physical Activities

Working Conditions

Additional Information

Candidates are expected to work effectively in a highly collaborative, engaging, and dynamic environment comprised of individuals of varied backgrounds, skills, and perspectives.

A remote work schedule is not available for this position.

Special Instructions Summary

1) All employees serve as a representative of the University and are expected to display respect, civility, professional courtesy, consideration of others and discretion in all interactions with members of the UT Dallas community and the general public.

2) The University of Texas at Dallas is committed to providing an educational, living, and working environment that is welcoming, respectful, and inclusive of all members of the university community. UT Dallas does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, sex (including pregnancy), sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, age, national origin, disability, genetic information, or veteran status in its services, programs, activities, employment, and education, including in admission and enrollment. The University is committed to providing access, equal opportunity, and reasonable accommodation for individuals with disabilities. To request reasonable accommodation in the employment application and interview process, contact the ADA Coordinator. For inquiries regarding nondiscrimination policies, contact the Title IX Coordinator.

Required Documents

• Resume
• Cover Letter/Letter of Application

Optional Documents

• Veteran Employment Preference - Form DD-214

Human Resources,
800 West Campbell Road, AD3.418
Richardson,
TX 75080-3021