The Marshall Space Flight Center (MSFC) Solar Physics Sounding Rocket group is seeking an NPP postdoctoral researcher to participate in multiple projects. Our ongoing projects include: CLASP2, which measures polarization of the upper chromosphere in the Mg II h&k lines to explore the magnetic field; MaGIXS, a slit X-Ray spectrometer to study hot coronal plasma in active regions; and Hi-C2, a high resolution EUV coronal imager. We will have at least three launches in the next three years, and we also have several additional proposed projects and ideas in the works. The goal of our sounding rocket program is to develop and test new instrumentation to advance our understanding of the solar atmosphere through improved remote sensing techniques.
We are searching for a dynamic postdoc to participate in designing, building, testing and flying these instruments. The postdoc may simultaneously work various roles on multiple projects. Instrumentation experience, especially with sounding rockets, is desirable. There are also opportunities to analyze data taken during flight, though a solar physics background is not required. We work closely with domestic and international partners on all of our projects, and the candidate should expect to travel for meetings, instrument work, and launches.
This position is sponsored through the NASA Postdoctoral Program (NPP) and is based in Huntsville, Alabama. Applications are due on July 1, 2017 and include research and education history, three letters of recommendation, and a research proposal of no more than 15 pages. Detailed application and eligibility information is available on the NPP website (https://npp.usra.edu/).
Applicants are strongly encouraged to contact Dr. Sabrina Savage sabrina -dot- savage -at- nasa -dot- gov in the sounding rocket group soon to discuss suitability and project ideas prior to submitting an application.
[Note: US citizenship is not required and most foreign nationals are eligible to apply. However, MSFC does not currently accept NPP applications from citizens of designated countries unless they are Legal Permanent Residents of the U.S. The Designated Countries List is available at http://oiir.hq.nasa.gov/nasaecp/]