NASA GSFC Positions in X-ray Optics and Astrophysics

NASA’s Goddard Space Flight Center (GSFC) Positions in X-ray Optics and Astrophysics

Applications are now being accepted for one or two research positions to work on the XRISM project, funded through the University of Maryland, Baltimore County (UMBC) and the Center for Research and Exploration in Space Science and Technology II (CRESST II). 

The GSFC X-ray Astrophysics Laboratory is a partner on the Japanese-led X-Ray Imaging and Spectroscopy Mission (XRISM), which is under development for a launch in 2022.  XRISM, a follow-on from the Hitomi (ASTRO-H) mission, features a high-energy-resolution X-ray calorimeter spectrometer ("Resolve") and an X-ray imaging CCD instrument ("Xtend"). The GSFC XRISM team is building two X-ray Mirror Assemblies (XMAs), one for Resolve and the other for Xtend. The team is going to perform a full characterization of both XMAs at the GSFC X-ray beamline, which is anticipated to take at least 4-5 months for each XMA. The successful applicants will primarily be working on this XMA calibration effort, which will involve making experimental measurements, analyzing data, generating reports, and creating a database for the project to use for science data analysis. Based on the measurement results, a ray-tracing model will be constructed and used for the instrument response generator. The work will include on-ground and in-flight calibration activities. The successful applicants will be responsible for the database preparation and its documentation as the final deliverables to the project through the mission Performance Verification (PV) phase. The successful applicants are also encouraged to do astrophysical studies using observational data from the PV phase.

A PhD in astrophysics/astronomy, physics or a closely related field is required. General data analysis/reduction skill is required. Prior experience in hardware development or calibration is not required but it is preferred. Also, knowledge of X-ray optics is not required but preferred. For full consideration, submit a Curriculum Vita, list of publications, statement of previous experience and research interests, and contact information for three references by April 15, 2019 (application materials will be accepted until the position is filled) to:

XRISM
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. The position is available immediately. The initial appointment term will be three years, renewable. For more technical/scientific information on the positions and/or the XRISM Mission, contact Dr. Takashi Okajima ([email protected]).  For questions on CRESST II or UMBC, contact Dr. Jane Turner ([email protected]).

The University of Maryland is an Affirmative Action, Equal Opportunity Employer. Women, minority group members, veterans, and individuals with disabilities are encouraged to apply.

Application Deadline: Monday, April 15, 2019

Start Date: As soon as possible.