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ORAU · 3 weeks ago

Solar System: Development of Protocols and Techniques for Analysis of Planetary Materials and Analogs Using Laser Mass Spectrometry

Greenbelt, MD

Full-time

Onsite

Senior Level

ORAU is collaborating with NASA to offer unique research opportunities for highly-talented scientists. The role involves developing novel approaches and techniques for analyzing planetary materials using laser mass spectrometry and related methods.

Universities

Culture & Values

No H1B

U.S. Citizen Only

Responsibilities

Developing novel approaches, techniques, and protocols for analyzing the chemical, organic, and isotopic composition of planetary materials using laser mass spectrometry along with associated or complementary techniques

Development and testing of novel laser-based ion sources and/or analytical protocols for mass spectrometers including prompt and/or post-ionization, chemical imaging, stigmatic ion extraction, and/or pulsed ion gating

Analysis of complex non-volatile organics in natural and synthetic analog samples (e.g., for Mars or Titan), standards, and meteorites, including combined use of laser and non-laser methods to calibrate identification of compounds in mixtures

Application of pulsed laser irradiation and cluster formation to simulate hypervelocity impact plasma chemical synthesis

Utilizing existing mass spectrometry and related laboratory facilities for instrument protocol development, sample analysis, and simulation activities

Addressing elements of the NASA Astrobiology roadmap, or supporting science for current and future missions, such as method development analyzing surface samples on Mars, Titan, Enceladus, and Europa

Qualification

Laser mass spectrometryInstrument developmentPulsed lasersHigh vacuum systemsMass spectrometryIon opticsLaboratory instrument controlsProgrammingChemical imagingSample analysis

Required

Doctoral Degree

Experience in instrument development and operation

Experience with pulsed lasers

Experience with high vacuum systems

Experience with mass spectrometry

Experience with ion optics and detectors

Experience with laboratory instrument controls and programming

Company

ORAU

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ORAU provides innovative scientific and technical solutions to advance research and education, protect public health and the environment and strengthen national security.

Founded in 1946