Job Description

Introduction:

The Johns Hopkins University Applied Physics Laboratory is seeking a Postdoctoral Fellow to conduct basic scientific research in the field of Solar and Space Physics with an emphasis on data analytics and particle instrument work applied to studies of planetary magnetosphere's. The successful candidate will work in an exciting environment, interfacing with experts in comprehensive data analysis and instrument development for a multitude of Solar and Space Physics missions as well as state-of-the-art modeling of geospace and other space environment systems.

The APL Space Physics Group (SRP) has a broad and active basic research program that includes data analysis, theory and modeling studies of Earth's magnetosphere and Sun-Earth connections, planetary magnetosphere's throughout the solar system, and heliospheric and solar physics. It also has a significant and long-running history of developing space instrumentation hardware and mission concepts. Current science and instrument participation in active missions includes ACE, Geotail, Juno, MMS, New Horizons, Parker Solar Probe, Solar Orbiter, STEREO, and Voyager. Future missions in development include Europa Clipper, EZIE, JUICE, and IMAP. In addition, the Group is playing the leading role in the multi-institutional, cross-disciplinary Center for Geospace Storms, one of the three NASA DRIVE Science Centers recently selected for Phase II.

Job Summary:

The research position focuses on applying comprehensive data analysis and analytics techniques for systems understanding of the complex coupled dynamics of the terrestrial magnetosphere, as well as developing new particle instruments for future Heliophysics and Planetary Science missions. The successful candidate would be expected to publish original research in peer-reviewed journals and team with SRP and other APL Space Exploration Sector staff to pursue external support for continued research and instrument development work.

Duties (Listed in order of importance with the estimated amount of time spent at each task):

1. Conducting original research in magnetospheric physics, and supporting ongoing instrument development work (40%).
2. Authoring papers for publication in peer-reviewed journals (30%).
3. Preparing for and participating in scientific conferences (20%).
4. Developing innovative scientific research and instrument development efforts and proposing to competed solicitations (10%).

Required Qualifications:

• PhD in Physics, Electrical Engineering or in a related technical field, or the demonstrated equivalent experience.
• In-depth knowledge of space plasma physics.
• Experience in analysis and scientific interpretation of space physics data.
• Proficiency with advanced technical computing using languages such as Python, Matlab, or another comparable programming language.
• A record of published first author scientific papers in peer-reviewed journals.
• Can demonstrate that you are fully vaccinated against COVID-19. To ensure the safety and well-being of the community, APL has established a policy requiring that all staff be vaccinated against COVID-19. All staff members must provide proof of full vaccination or have an approved medical or religious accommodation by their start date.

Desired Qualifications:

• Demonstrated understanding of the workings of space particle instruments, and the ability to analyze their performances with computer algorithms and other tool.
• Previous experience with spaceflight hardware and/or space mission projects.

Why work at APL?

The Johns Hopkins University Applied Physics Laboratory (APL) brings world-class expertise to our nation's most critical defense, security, space and science challenges. While we are dedicated to solving complex challenges and pioneering new technologies, what makes us truly outstanding is our culture. We offer a vibrant, welcoming atmosphere where you can bring your authentic self to work, continue to grow, and build strong connections with inspiring teammates.

At APL, we celebrate our differences and encourage creativity and bold, new ideas. Our employees enjoy generous benefits, including a robust education assistance program, unparalleled retirement contributions, and a healthy work/life balance. APL's campus is located in the Baltimore-Washington metro area. Learn more about our career opportunities at www.jhuapl.edu/careers.

APL is an Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, creed, color, religion, sex, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, national origin, age, physical or mental disability, genetic information, veteran status, occupation, marital or familial status, political opinion, personal appearance, or any other characteristic protected by applicable law.

APL is committed to promoting an innovative environment that embraces diversity, encourages creativity, and supports inclusion of new ideas. In doing so, we are committed to providing reasonable accommodation to individuals of all abilities, including those with disabilities. If you require a reasonable accommodation to participate in any part of the hiring process, please contact Accommodations@jhuapl.edu. Only by ensuring that everyone’s voice is heard are we empowered to be bold, do great things, and make the world a better place.

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