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ORAU · 3 weeks ago

Laboratory Astrophysics: experimental, theoretical, modeling, and/or database research

Santa Clara County, CA

Full-time

Onsite

New Grad, Entry Level

ORAU is seeking a postdoctoral researcher for the NASA Postdoctoral Program, which provides unique research opportunities at NASA centers. The role involves conducting laboratory astrophysics research, including experimental and theoretical work, to support NASA's missions in space science and related fields.

Universities

Culture & Values

H1B Sponsor Likely

Responsibilities

Production of gas-phase analogs of cosmic molecules and ions, and solid-phase analogs of cosmic grains, exoplanetary atmospheric aerosols, and protoplanetary disk materials from gas chemistry at low temperature using a plasma expansion. Experience with plasma physics and vacuum techniques is required

Spectral characterization of low temperature molecules and ions for comparison with observations. The project involves the use of cavity ring down spectroscopy and reflectron time-of-flight mass spectrometry. Experience with laser spectroscopy in the UV-Visible-NIR and in the MIR ranges, jet expansions and molecular beams, plasma physics, and vacuum instrumentation is required for this project

Spectral and morphological characterization of laboratory-generated solid materials using scanning electron microscopy, UV-FIR spectroscopy and other techniques. Experience with ex-situ diagnostics for the characterization of solid materials is required for this task

Optical constant determination of organic refractory materials and ices from the visible to the far infrared. Development of new techniques from variable angle transmission and reflectance measurements and participation in projects to extend the characterized wavelength range. Work closely with observers and modelers to use the optical constants in the analysis of observational data from, e.g., Hubble, Spitzer, JWST. Candidates are expected to be proficient doing data reduction and analysis using Python and comfortable with IDL

Development of the infrastructure of the Nanograindb database by taking into account the needs of the astronomical community and by using PAHdb as a blueprint. Create libraries of computed and experimental spectra and morphological data. Develop software tools for modeling the emission spectra of nanograins using the spectral and morphological data and for comparing with observations. Make these tools available through Nanograindb

Involvement in planning and executing JWST observations, which are paramount for furthering our understanding of interstellar PAHs, increasing their effectiveness as astrophysical probes. Utilize PAHdb in astrophysical studies to affirm data-quality, tool performance, and foresee and respond to potential needs from the astronomical community. Mature and extend the software analysis tools in PAHdb for use with JWST data. Candidates are expected to be proficient using Python. Experience with JWST data reduction and analysis is a plus

For all tasks, candidates will be expected to publish in peer-reviewed journals and present at conferences

Qualification

Plasma physicsVacuum techniquesLaser spectroscopyData analysis using PythonScanning electron microscopyOptical constant determinationDatabase developmentSoft skills

Required

Doctoral Degree

Experience with plasma physics and vacuum techniques

Experience with laser spectroscopy in the UV-Visible-NIR and in the MIR ranges

Experience with jet expansions and molecular beams

Experience with ex-situ diagnostics for the characterization of solid materials

Proficient doing data reduction and analysis using Python

Comfortable with IDL

Experience with JWST data reduction and analysis is a plus

Company

ORAU

Glassdoor4.4

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

Oak Ridge, Tennessee, USA

501-1000 employees

https://www.orau.org/

H1B Sponsorship

ORAU has a track record of offering H1B sponsorships. Please note that this does not guarantee sponsorship for this specific role. Below presents additional info for your reference. (Data Powered by US Department of Labor)

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2023 (1)

2022 (2)

2021 (7)

2020 (3)