Space Geodesist Research Associate

University of Texas; Austin, Northern (TX, KY); Hybrid; USD 90,000 - 140,000; Full time

Job summary

University of Texas at Austin seeks a high-level geodesy researcher to perform precision survey and develop algorithms. You will publish work, present findings, and participate in reviews with sponsors and external organizations.

Responsibilities include designing experiments, implementing software in C++ and Python, and guiding data collection and reduction methods while collaborating with team members across disciplines.

Qualifications

• PhD in geodesy, geophysics, aerospace engineering, physics or related field.
• Experience developing software for scientific applications in C++ or Python.
• Record of peer-reviewed publications and presenting technical content.

Responsibilities

• Perform precision survey and geodesy research aligned with SGL interests.
• Publish and present research internally and externally; participate in reviews.
• Design experiments, develop algorithms and software; document implementations.

Skills

C++ programming

Python programming

Geodesy knowledge

Estimation theory

Linux experience

Education

PhD in geodesy or related field

Tools

Git

GitHub/GitLab

LaTeX

Linux/Windows

Job description

* Perform high-level independent precision survey and geodesy research relevant to the interests of SGL.* Present and publish your research, both internally and externally. This may involve participating in project reviews and technical interface meetings to present designs and test results to sponsors and other external organizations, as well as publishing work in scientific journals and presenting work at conferences.* Contribute to the first principles problem formulations, algorithm development, systems designs, software implementations, and collection methods for specialized geodetic survey applications, drawing on expertise in fields such as physics, gravimetry, astronomy, global navigation satellite systems (GNSS), terrestrial survey instrumentation, and estimation theory.* Accrue and apply knowledge of global reference frame determination, multi-space geodetic techniques, metrology, geophysical phenomena, orbit determination, GNSS signals, and statistical estimation to address a range of specialized geodetic applications. Design experiments and corresponding analyses to gauge systems' performance, and develop recommendations to effect improvements.* Implement software algorithms in C++ and Python in a collaborative environment. Work closely with team members to define interfaces between program components. Document implementations thoroughly and clearly. Define, implement, and execute test cases for program functions.* Further develop knowledge of geodesy, geodetic survey principles, astronomy, estimation theory, C++ and Python, and software development principles.* Provide guidance and assistance to other full time employees and student employees.* Provide technical leadership and identify new directions for research.* Other related functions as assigned and occasional travel to support meetings.* PhD in geodesy, geophysics, aerospace engineering, physics, earth science, or related field.* Experience developing software in C++ or Python for scientific applications.* One or more years experience developing methods of geodetic data collection and/or data reduction processes.* Demonstrated record of authoring peer-reviewed scientific publications.* Demonstrated record of presenting scientific content to technical and non-technical audiences.* Experience developing global reference frames.* Experience with multi-space geodetic techniques including satellite laser ranging and very long baseline interferometry.* Experience using terrestrial survey instrumentation.* Experience employing metrological tools and techniques for precise spatial measurements.* Experience employing star catalogs and celestial reference frames.* Experience modeling or employing models of geophysical phenomena.* Experience estimating orbits of spacecraft and satellites.* Experience using GNSS hardware and techniques for precise geo-positioning.* Experience processing GNSS carrier phase signals.* Demonstrated experience with analysis and interpretation of results of processing digital receiver data.* Experience with any of the following: software-defined radio, multi-rate signal processing, HF radio, remote sensing, radar, wireless communications, RF signal processing, radio astronomy/interferometry, ionosphere, geodesy, reference frames, orbital mechanics, and digital design.* Experience designing, implementing, and deploying robust scientific software.* Experience employing statistical estimation techniques.* Experience in writing proposals for and leading externally-funded research projects.* Experience with high-performance computing.* Proficiency with programming languages such as Python, C/C++, FORTRAN, or similar.* Experience developing on Linux and Windows platforms, including terminal-based environments (bash), version control (Git and GitHub/GitLab), and cloud services (such as AWS).* Proficiency with LaTeX.* Eligibility for immediate access to classified information.* Minimum cumulative GPA of 3.0.**Start Here, Change the World**At The University of Texas at Austin, tradition meets innovation in the heart of a city that frequents lists of the best places to live and work. Named by Forbes as one of America's Best Large Employers for the sixth year in a row in 2025, UT offers both a dynamic work environment and a gateway to vibrant local culture. Whether you're at the forefront of the student experience, conducting world-changing research or supporting the engine that drives Texas' flagship university, working at UT means making a lasting impact on our city, our state and our world.Our more than 20,000 faculty and staff empower 55,000+ students to challenge ideas, pursue passions and shape their futures. Joining UT, you'll become part of a community dedicated to making a meaningful impact on campus and throughout the world.Please see our .**Comments and Inquiries:**Email comments to [e-mail]. For questions or concerns regarding equal opportunity only, contact .Additional information for applicants can be found on the Human Resources web page:. For more job information, call the Human Resource Service Center at [phone], or toll-free at [phone].