PDF versionJob Summary
The Goddard Space Flight Center (GSFC) Planetary Geology, Geophysics, Geochemical Laboratory is seeking a Research Space Scientist to provide expertise in the analysis of planetary spacecraft radiometric tracking data and apply it to a wide range of geophysical studies.
Major Duties
- Engages in professional scientific and engineering work that is systematic, critical, intensive investigation directed towards discovering and applying new or expanded knowledge in the professional field of Space Science.
- Applies the principles and techniques of geophysics in the investigation and interpretation of planetary spacecraft radiometric tracking data with applications to a wide range of geophysical studies.
- Monitors contracted work, either externally or on-site in the facility of the contractor.
- Independently formulates research plans and hypotheses and conducts research in the analysis of planetary spacecraft radio signals for precision orbit determination and planetary gravity field determination.
- Performs measurement modeling and the development of innovative inversion techniques and the development of novel techniques for spacecraft instrument modeling, data reduction and analysis.
- Applies the above techniques to develop value-added products e.g., crustal thickness, crustal density, internal structure, and localized gravity representations.
- Develops the techniques and tools necessary for these investigations, e.g., computer code, sensors, mission concepts, and instrumentation used in experiments.
- Explores and defines complex problems, analyzes data, interprets results, and disseminates science results through publication in technical reports, requirements documents, or professional papers, invited talks, and presentations at conferences.
- Develops successful research proposals in response to NASA solicitations.
- Leads the development of new mission concepts and proposals for next generation space geodetic missions, including satellite gravity and altimetry missions for Solar System bodies.
- Contributes to the definition of mission science objectives, instrumentation and data analysis.
- Duties described above are for full-performance level. Duties assigned at a lower grade level will be of<br>more limited scope, performed with less independence and limited complexity; duties will be commensurate with the grade of selected employee.
Qualifications
In addition to Basic Education, applicant must have one year of specialized experience at the next lower grade, which has equipped the applicant with the particular competencies needed to successfully perform the duties of the position described above.To qualify for the GS-13:Specialized experience includes publication in professional journals; research studying planetary geophysical problems, with experience on recent lunar and/or planetary mission science teams (e.g., GRAIL, MESSENGER, MRO) and providing analysis of recent planetary spacecraft mission data for gravitational field determination; use of research techniques and practices; work as a research project or team member; contributions that added to scientific and professional knowledge or support in developing new or improved methods and techniques; and work in the area of planetary studies. To qualify for the GS-14:Specialized experience includes publication in professional journals; work as a project member or primary investigator; leadership in research studies of planetary geophysical problems, with experience on recent lunar and/or planetary mission science teams (e.g., GRAIL, MESSENGER, MRO); providing analysis of recent planetary spacecraft mission data for gravitational field determination as demonstrated through peer-reviewed publications; developing new and complex approaches to the modeling of gravity fields of the planets, Moon, asteroids and satellites; use of sophisticated research techniques; work leading to important changes in projects, methods, techniques, or processes; and work in the area of planetary studies. Vacant research positions may be filled at one of several grade levels depending upon the scientific impact of the person selected. A review may be required to determine the appropriate grade level of the position and supplemental materials may be required from the selectee. Please keep this in mind when indicating the lowest grade you will accept.Your resume must include a clear and detailed narrative description, in your own words, of how you meet the required specialized experience. Experience statements copied from a position description, vacancy announcement or other reference material constitutes plagiarism and may result in disqualification and losing consideration for the job.Please spell out all acronyms.
Pay Range
$102,663.00 - $157,709.00