Postdoctoral Position in Space Instrumentation

The Laboratory for Atmospheric and Space Physics at the University of Colorado at Boulder invites applications for a postdoctoral research position in the areas of spaceflight instrumentation, laboratory demonstration of advanced hardware, and development of instrument concepts for future NASA missions. The successful candidate would work with Dr. Kevin France, a professor in the Department of Astrophysical & Planetary Sciences (APS). Dr. France’s research group has several active programs developing and flight-testing instruments for ultraviolet/optical astronomy, including the NASA-funded Colorado Ultraviolet Transit Experiment CubeSat mission, a vibrant suborbital rocket group, and active programs studying large-format detectors, advanced optical coatings, and optical components. Experience with optical design, calibration, and testing is strongly desired. Familiarity with space-flight hardware, vacuum system operation, and launch site operations would be considered additional attributes. The applicant would also be encouraged to collaborate with Dr. France’s ground-based and HST observing projects, mentor undergraduate and graduate research students, and would have a significant fraction of their time available for independent research to develop her/his own research programs.

The APS department is affiliated with several research centers and institutes (LASP, CASA, JILA) and offers a diverse set of resources for teaching and research, including access to observational, instrumental, and theoretical facilities. CU is a member of the ARC 3.5-meter telescope and the SDSS IV and SDSS V Surveys at Apache Point Observatory. LASP and CASA have also been the PI institutions of numerous space missions for heliophysics, planetary science, and astrophysics; the candidate would have access to excellent facilities for development of space-borne and ground-based hardware.

Applicants should submit a cover letter, curriculum vitae including a list of publications, and a short description of current research accomplishments and future goals. The applicant should also arrange to have three letters of recommendation sent directly to [email protected]. The initial appointment is for one years, with an additional two years expected contingent upon performance and funding.

We will begin considering applications on Nov 15, 2018, and we will accept applications until the position is filled. The start data is flexible, but no later than Aug 2019; the position could start as early as December 2018. The University of Colorado is an Equal Opportunity Employer committed to building a diverse workforce. We encourage applications from women, racial and ethnic minorities, individuals with disabilities and veterans. Alternative formats of this ad can be provided upon request for individuals with disabilities by contacting the ADA Coordinator at: [email protected].