Scientist I-II (705-400)

The Research Scientist will join the X-ray Research Group at NASA Marshall Space Flight Center. The X-ray Research Group provides scientific expertise and technical support for multiple current and future missions and mission concept studies. Current efforts include the Chandra X-ray Observatory, the Imaging X-ray Polarimetry Explorer (IXPE, a recently awarded NASA Small Explorer) mission, and the Advanced Roentgen Telescope – X-ray Concentrator (ART-XC) instrument (due to be launched in late 2018 as part of the Spectrum Roentgen Gamma observatory alongside the eROSITA instrument). Future missions include the Focusing Optics X-ray Solar Imager (FOXSI) concept study and the Lynx X-ray Observatory strategic mission concept study. In addition, MSFC provides in-house-fabricated grazing incidence optics for spin-off applications for other Government Agencies.

 

Essential Duties/Responsibilities:

Support preparations for, and activities associated with, the ART-XC observing campaign.

Engage in independent research to help maintain scientific excellence within the Chandra Project Science team.

Perform research in support of the program activities of the MSFC X-ray group.

 

Required Qualifications:

 

Education:

Ph.D. in Astrophysics, Physics, or a related field.

 

Experience:

3-10 years of research experience.

Significant experience in data analysis and simulation for high energy astrophysics.

 

Knowledge, Skills & Abilities:

Strong qualifications in observational astrophysics, as evidenced by a record of publication in refereed scientific journals, and / or a record of successful research funding in astrophysics

Experience in testing and developments of Monte Carlo simulations for x-ray hardware.

 

Working Conditions:

This job is largely a sedentary role and operates primarily in a professional office environment. Incumbents will constantly perform desk-based computer tasks. Keyboarding for large time spans each day will be a significant part of this position. The employee may need to lift and/or move up to 25 pounds.

 

Travel:

The position may require occasional travel to present scientific results and to collaborate with other researchers.

 

Applicants should apply to the posting at https://usracareers.silkroad.com/ and include a letter of interest, resume, or curriculum vita.  Review of candidates will begin immediately.  Additional information on USRA can be found at www.usra.edu. 

 

USRA is an Equal Opportunity Employer Minorities/Females/Protected Veterans/Disabled/Sexual Orientation/Gender Identity