Postdoc Researcher, IXPE

The USRA Science and Technology Institute (STI) is seeking a full-time Postdoc Researcher to join the X-ray Research Group at NASA's Marshall Space Flight Center (MSFC) in Huntsville, AL. The successful candidate will support the scientific research of the Group, especially research related to the Imaging X-ray Polarimetry Explorer (IXPE) mission, which is led by NASA MSFC. 

Launched on 2021 December 9, IXPE is a NASA Small Explorer mission in partnership with the Italian Space Agency (ASI).  IXPE is enabling breakthrough x-ray polarimetry measurements on many classes of cosmic X-ray sources including accreting stellar black holes and neutron stars; magnetars; radio pulsars, pulsar wind nebulae, and supernova remnants; and active galaxies including blazars.

The initial appointment is for two years, with renewal for an additional year possible. The starting date is negotiable; the appointment can begin as soon as a successful candidate is selected but no later than 2024 September 1.   Applications received before 2024 March 1 will be given full consideration.

Essential Duties/Responsibilities: 

• Analyze IXPE science data and publish results in peer-reviewed journals.
• Perform regular duties supporting the IXPE Science Operations Center which is located at MSFC including the development or testing of software for IXPE data processing and analysis.
• Organize and propose new IXPE observations of astrophysical sources through the General Observer program.
• Conduct independent research to help maintain scientific excellence within the IXPE team and perform general research supporting activities of the STI and the MSFC X-ray Group

Required Qualifications: 

Education:   Ph.D. in Physics, Astronomy, Astrophysics, or a closely related discipline                 

Experience:  

• Significant experience in data analysis of astrophysical sources
• A record of publication of relevant research in refereed scientific journals
• Experience in analysis of polarimetric measurements of astrophysical sources desired.
• Experience in machine learning desired.

Knowledge, Skills & Abilities:  

• Knowledge of high-energy astrophysics
• Proficiency with astrophysics data analysis tools and software packages
• In-depth knowledge of programming language(s) commonly used in modern astrophysics, such as Python.
• Strong oral and written communication skills

Working Conditions: This job operates in a professional office environment. This role routinely uses standard office equipment such as computers, phones, photocopiers, etc. Extensive online usage. This is largely a sedentary role.

Travel: Scientific Meetings and Conference as needed – one or two per year. 

Position is pending NASA funding. 

Applicants should apply to the posting at USRA Careers and include a letter of interest, resume, or curriculum vita. 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.