Silicon Detector Characterization and Optimization for Space Imaging Systems

ORAU; Pasadena (CA); On-site; USD 70,000 - 100,000; Full time

Job summary

NASA Postdoctoral Program seeks a highly skilled researcher to advance state-of-the-art silicon detector technologies for space imaging. The position emphasizes detector test methodologies, QE calibration, and system integration with custom electronics in a challenging space environment.

The successful candidate will design optimized operating modes, refine clocking and bias conditions, and contribute to next-generation space-camera projects across NASA missions.

Qualifications

• PhD in physics, astronomy, or engineering with detector experience.
• Experience with silicon detectors (EMCCDs, sCMOS, Skipper CCDs).
• Ability to develop test methods for low-noise performance.

Responsibilities

• Develop detector test methodologies to measure read noise, dark current, and QE.
• Lead QE measurements and spectral response characterization.
• Integrate detectors with camera systems and low-noise readout chains.

Skills

Detector characterization

Noise reduction

QE measurements

Camera integration

Semiconductor physics

Education

Doctoral Degree

Tools

Detector testbeds

Low-noise readout electronics

Calibration equipment

Job description

Organization

National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA)

Reference Code

0352-NPP-NOV26-JPL-Engineering

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.

We are seeking a postdoctoral researcher specializing in silicon detector characterization and optimization for high-performance space imaging applications. The successful candidate will focus on understanding and improving the operational performance of advanced silicon imaging technologies—including EMCCDs, sCMOS detectors, and Skipper CCDs with specific emphasis on noise reduction, quantum-efficiency (QE) measurements, and camera system integration.

The role centers on developing and implementing state-of-the-art detector test methodologies to extract key performance parameters such as read noise, dark current, charge transfer efficiency, gain stability, and single-photon sensitivity. The researcher will be responsible for designing optimized detector operating modes, refining clocking and bias conditions, and identifying pathways to achieve best-in-class low-noise performance across a range of silicon detector architectures.

A major component of this position involves conducting precision QE measurements, calibrations, and spectral response characterizations to support astrophysics applications where detector throughput, stability, and sensitivity are mission-critical. The candidate will also lead efforts in camera system integration, including working with custom electronics, low-noise readout chains, and environmental test configurations relevant to space imaging performance.

This position contributes directly to detector development efforts for astrophysics missions while supporting broader next-generation space-camera technology across multiple programs. The preferred candidate will bring strong expertise in semiconductor device physics, hands‑on experience with advanced detector testbeds, and a demonstrated ability to interpret device behavior and translate insights into optimized detector operation.

Field of Science

Engineering

Advisors

April Jewell

[e-mail]

[phone]

Questions about this opportunity?

Please email [e-mail]

Point of Contact

Mikeala

Eligibility Requirements

• Degree: Doctoral Degree.