X-Ray Astrophysics of Supernova Remnants

ORAU; Greenbelt (MD); On-site; USD 70,000 - 90,000; Full time

Job summary

A federal research agency located in Greenbelt, Maryland, is offering a unique research opportunity in astrophysics focused on supernova remnants. The position requires a Doctoral Degree and involves conducting research using X-ray spectroscopy and data analysis. Candidates will engage with current and past X-ray observatories, contributing to NASA's missions. The role also provides contact with leading experts and impacts on advanced astrophysical research.

Qualifications

• PhD in astrophysics or related field is required.
• Proficiency in data analysis and research methodology.
• Experience with X-ray observatories such as Chandra or XMM-Newton preferred.

Responsibilities

• Conduct research on supernova remnants using X-ray data.
• Analyze data from current and past X-ray observatories.
• Frame research questions for upcoming NASA missions.

Skills

X-ray spectroscopy

Data analysis

Research in astrophysics

Education

Doctoral Degree

Job description

Organization

National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA)

Reference Code

0089-NPP-NOV26-GSFC-Astrophys

How to Apply

All applications must be submitted in Zintellect. Please visit the NASA Postdoctoral Program website for application instructions and requirements: How to Apply | NASA Postdoctoral Program (orau.org).

Application Deadline: 11/1/2026 6:00:59 PM Eastern Time Zone

About the NASA Postdoctoral Program

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.

Description

X-ray spectroscopy and imaging of supernova remnants are providing crucial information about their underlying physics, origin, and evolution. Observations with the current generation of X‑ray observatories, Chandra, XMM‑Newton, and NuSTAR, are making possible deeper understanding of the conditions in the forward- and reverse‑shock heated gas, the pre‑explosion progenitor evolution, the explosion mechanism, ejecta abundances, and the acceleration of relativistic particles by the forward shock. In particular, proper motion studies of the forward shock and the ejecta using Chandra have provided insights into the degree of symmetry of the supernova explosion. Our research program utilizes data from current and past X‑ray observatories to investigate virtually all aspects of supernova remnant dynamics and evolution, and to frame questions to be answered by the upcoming JAXA/NASA X‑ray Imaging and Spectroscopy Mission.

Location

Goddard Space Flight Center
Greenbelt, Maryland

Field of Science

Astrophysics

Advisors

Brian J Williams
[e-mail]
[phone]

Eligibility Requirements

• Degree: Doctoral Degree.
• U.S. Citizens;
• U.S. Lawful Permanent Residents (LPR);
• Foreign Nationals eligible for an Exchange Visitor J‑1 visa status;
• Applicants for LPR, asylees, or refugees in the U.S. at the time of application with 1) a valid EAD card and 2) I‑485 or I‑589 forms in pending status.

Applications with citizens from Designated Countries will not be accepted at this time, unless they are Legal Permanent Residents of the United States. A complete list of Designated Countries can be found at: https://www.nasa.gov/oiir/export-control.

Contact

Questions about this opportunity? Please email [e-mail]. Point of Contact: Mikeala