Postdoctoral Associate to Develop Data Analysis Techniques and Science Applications for LISA Mission

Postdoctoral Associate to Develop Data Analysis Techniques and Science Applications for LISA Mission

The University of Maryland, Baltimore County (UMBC) invites applications for a Postdoctoral Associate to develop data analysis techniques and science applications for NASA’s participation in the upcoming ESA-led Laser Interferometer Space Antenna (LISA) mission. The position consists of a postdoctoral appointment in UMBC’s Center for Space Sciences and Technology (CSST), funded by NASA through the Center for Research and Exploration in Space Sciences & Technology II (CRESST II) cooperative agreement. The incumbent would conduct their work as a part of the Gravitational Astrophysics Laboratory at NASA/Goddard Space Flight Center (GSFC) in Greenbelt, MD.

The Goddard team is extensively involved in NASA’s preparations for LISA and in LISA Consortium research and development activities, with experts on source and waveform modelling, astrophysical data analysis for detection and parameter estimation of sources, and instrumental hardware, data characterization and simulation efforts. The postdoc will work with Dr. John G Baker and colleagues on development and implementation of LISA data analysis algorithms and LISA science analysis. We invite researchers with a strong background in data analysis and astrophysics as well as an interest in the exciting future of space-based gravitational wave science to apply. The pursuit of independent projects and new avenues for research is highly encouraged by both NASA and UMBC, and the postdoc will be expected to publish papers and present research at appropriate conferences.

Candidates for this position should have a Ph.D. in Physics, Astronomy, Astrophysics, or a related field. Restrictions associated with the COVID-19 pandemic may require that the successful candidate work remotely, at least initially. We expect the incumbent to transition to on-site work once GSFC resumes on-site work in this category, but this expectation can be discussed as part of the hiring process.

The position will remain available until filled. Applications received by December 1, 2021, will receive best consideration. The nominal starting date is in early 2022, but alternate dates are possible depending on availability. Each applicant should send a Curriculum Vita, list of publications, statement of research interests, and contact information for three references to:

Application materials should be submitted to:

LISA Mission Postdoctoral Associate

CRESST/UMBC

Mail Code 660.8, NASA/GSFC

Greenbelt, MD 20771, or

Via e-mail to [email protected]

Salary and benefits are competitive, commensurate with experience and qualifications. For more information about the proposed research, contact Dr. John Baker ([email protected]). For information on CRESST II or UMBC, contact Dr. Don Engel ([email protected]). UMBC is committed to inclusive excellence and innovation and strongly encourages applications from women, minorities, veterans, and individuals with disabilities. UMBC is an equal opportunity employer and welcomes all to apply. EOE/M/F/D/V.