Applications are now being accepted for short-term postbaccalaureate research positions to support the Astrophysics Science and Solar System Exploration Divisions at NASA/Goddard Space Flight Center (NASA/GSFC) in Greenbelt, MD. The position is funded by Southeastern Universities Research Association (SURA) through the Center for Research and Exploration in Space Science and Technology II (CRESST II).
The Astrophysics Science Division conducts a broad program of research in astronomy, astrophysics, and fundamental physics. Individual investigations address issues such as the nature of dark matter and dark energy, which planets outside our solar system may harbor life, and the nature of space, time, and matter at the edges of black holes.
The Solar System Exploration Division conducts theoretical and experimental research to explore the solar system and understand the formation and evolution of planetary systems. Laboratories within the division investigate areas as diverse as astrochemistry, planetary atmospheres, geochemistry, geophysics, geodynamics, space geodesy, extrasolar planetary systems, and comparative planetary studies.
Positions available within the Astrophysics Science and Solar System Exploration Divisions span a variety of research areas. Successful candidates will be chosen to work on one of the research projects listed below.
- Project #6(expanded project description included on Breezy) - We are looking for a highly motivated candidate who can apply intelligent algorithms and machine-learning techniques on complex astrophysical data in X-ray astronomy, to understand the physics of such systems. Our immediate goal (but not limited to) is to understand the nature of the X-ray light curve (time-series) of active galaxies. Active Galaxies are extremely bright galaxies hosting a supermassive black hole at their center and accreting (eating up) matter at a very high rate. The X-rays from these galaxies are emitted from the very innermost regions of the black hole event-horizon (surface!), called the Corona. The time-series/light-curves in X-rays emitted by the Corona give us loads of information about the physics of the matter sitting right next to the black holes and can lead to transformative and foundational discoveries. Preference will be given to candidates who have strong Machine-learning/AI and computational skills, along with some background in astrophysics/physics/mathematics. The post-bac will work in a hybrid mode. The selected candidate will work with Dr. Sibasish Laha.
Candidates should be soon or recent graduates with a bachelor's degree in astronomy, physics, computer science, mathematics, chemistry, or a related science, or engineering discipline. Individuals who have already earned a master's degree are ineligible. We encourage applicants who are considering applying to a graduate program in the near future, and who wish to expand their research experience in the interim to also apply. Successful candidates may have significant experience in scientific programming (Python is a major plus), machine learning, OR physical/chemical laboratory work.
To apply, each applicant should submit a cover letter describing personal background and interest in the applicants' chosen project(s), Curriculum Vitae, unofficial transcript, and contact information for two references
to each project of interest through the CRESST II Breezy application platform. After sponsors review applications, additional support materials may be requested which may include a work sample in the form of a report, poster, journal article, writing sample, or coding examples. The deadline to apply is
Monday, March 31, 2025, at 11:59 pm EDT.
This is a full-time position working on-site at NASA/GSFC for 40 hours/week. The position offers a competitive annual salary of $47,500, along with comprehensive benefits. The desired start date ranges from July - September 2025, with an initial employment term of one year that may be extended for one additional year contingent on performance and availability of funds. For general questions, contact the CRESST II Office (cresstoffice(at)gmail.com). SURA is an equal opportunity employer and welcomes all to apply. EOE/M/F/D/V.
