Positions Available

Postdoctoral Researcher in Planetary Petrology

The Lunar and Planetary Institute (LPI), part of the Universities Space Research Association, invites applications for a postdoctoral fellowship in the petrology of planetary materials.

The successful candidate will work with Dr. Allan Treiman in NASA-funded efforts, focusing on volatiles in magmas and aqueous alteration of igneous rocks; target materials include Martian meteorites, lunar samples, and terrestrial analogs. These efforts focus on planetary samples, starting with analyses by optical microscopy and electron microprobe; other instruments are available as needed at nearby Johnson Space Center (experimental petrology laboratories, LA-ICPMS), or can be arranged with external collaborators (e.g., SIMS). The candidate will be encouraged to design and conduct her/his own research in planetary science, propose for external funding, participate in grant review panels and analysis groups, and become involved with spacecraft missions.

At the LPI, the successful candidate will interact with its scientists of many specialties, and with those of the Astromaterials Research and Exploration Science (ARES) group at nearby Johnson Space Center. The LPI leads a team in the NASA Lunar Science Institute, so the successful candidate will be part of that community of lunar explorers. LPI scientists maintain active collaborations with faculty in the geosciences departments of Rice University and the University of Houston, which are nearby.

The successful candidate must have a recent Ph.D. in petrology or geochemistry; experience with planetary materials is helpful, but not required. The position would be for two years, with possible extension to a third year. Applicants should send a letter of interest, a curriculum vita with a list of publications, a brief (maximum three pages) statement of research interests, and a list of three references to resume@lpi.usra.edu. Review of candidates will begin November 15, 2009, with a hiring decision as soon as possible, thereafter. Further information on current research and facilities at the LPI can be found on our website.

The Universities Space Research Association is an Equal Opportunity Employer.

Postdoctoral Researcher in Planetary Mapping

The Universities Space Research Association’s Lunar and Planetary Institute (LPI), in Houston TX, invites applications for a postdoctoral fellowship in planetary science. The successful candidate will work with Dr. Paul Schenk, investigating the topography of Jupiter’s volcanic moon Io using stereo and shape-from-shading techniques (although experience in these tools is not required). A variety of landforms will be mapped, including volcanoes and mountains, as well as regional and global scale shape deviations. The candidate will also be expected to develop their own research projects using these data.

Candidate must have a recent Ph.D. in geology or geophysics. In addition, the candidate shall have a strong background in remote sensing/image processing of spacecraft data, and preferably experience in geophysical or volcanological investigations. The position is generally for two years, with a possible extension to a maximum of three years. Applicants should send a letter of interest, a curriculum vita with a list of publications, a brief (maximum three pages) statement of research interests, and a list of three references to resume@lpi.usra.edu by October 30, 2009. Review of candidates will begin October 31, 2009, with a hiring decision, as soon as possible thereafter. Further information on current research and facilities at the LPI can be found on our website.

The Universities Space Research Association is an Equal Opportunity Employer.

Postdoctoral Fellow in Lunar Surface Geology

The Universities Space Research Association’s Lunar and Planetary Institute (LPI) invites applications for a lunar science and exploration postdoctoral fellowship. We are seeking a motivated individual who wants to integrate existing lunar data (e.g., Apollo landing site geology, Lunar Orbiter images) with new data from the Lunar Reconnaissance Orbiter Camera. Expertise in orbital image analysis and planetary geology concepts, particularly impact cratering processes, are desirable. Research activities will involve the highest science priorities identified by the NRC’s (2007) Scientific Context for Exploration of the Moon and will likely interface with landing site assessments for NASA’s Constellation Program.

The successful candidate should be able to work independently, although encouraged to take advantage of the tremendous lunar-related expertise in the Houston area. The successful candidate will be a member of the new LPI-JSC Center for Lunar Science and Exploration (http://www.lpi.usra.edu/nlsi/), which is one of the core teams within the NASA Lunar Science Institute.

USRA offers a competitive salary and benefits package. If there are any questions about the science involved in the position, please contact Dr. David A. Kring (kring@lpi.usra.edu). Interested applicants should submit a curriculum vita with list of publications, a two to three page statement of research interests, and a list of three references to resume@lpi.usra.edu. There is no firm application deadline, although a review of applications will begin October 15, 2009.

The Universities Space Research Association is an Equal Opportunity Employer.

Planetary Geophysics Postdoctoral Fellowship

The Universities Space Research Association's Lunar and Planetary Institute (LPI) in Houston, Texas, invites applicants to apply for a postdoctoral fellowship in planetary geophysics.

The successful candidate will work with Dr. Walter Kiefer on a NASA-funded project studying the nature of mantle convection on Mars and its effects on the thermal evolution and volcanic history of the planet. The candidate will also have the opportunity to conduct research in planetary geophysics of his or her own choosing.

The position requires a Ph.D. in Planetary Science or Geophysics and experience in computer programming and numerical modeling methods, particularly finite elements. Experience with parallel computing in a Linux environment will be an asset. The position will be offered for an initial period of two years with a possible extension to a maximum of three years.

Applicants should send a letter of interest, a CV with a list of relevant publications, a brief (maximum of three pages) statement of research interests, and a list of three references to resume@lpi.usra.edu. Review of candidates will begin on November 10, 2009, with a hiring decision, as soon as possible thereafter. Further information on current research and facilities at the LPI can be found on our website at www.lpi.usra.edu.

The Universities Space Research Association is an Equal Opportunity Employer.

Visiting Scientist Positions
The Lunar and Planetary Institute (LPI) in Houston, Texas, is actively searching for senior planetary science professionals interested in spending time in residence at the Institute. LPI's physical proximity to NASA Johnson Space Center (JSC), the Astromaterials Research and Exploration Science Directorate (ARES), and the NASA sample collection make it an ideal location for any scientist whose research would be enhanced by direct daily interaction with the ARES and LPI scientific staff.
The Institute’s dynamic environment provides the perfect atmosphere for senior academics considering going on sabbatical. Visiting Scientists in residence during the summer months may also participate in the renowned LPI Undergraduate Intern Program.

Applicants may propose to work in any area of the planetary sciences, with preference given to topics that enhance the interactions between the LPI and the Astromaterials Research Group at (JSC).

Visiting Scientist positions will generally be offered for periods of 1–12 months and are available for scientists with established records of research productivity.

Applicants should send a letter of interest, a curriculum vita with list of relevant publications, a brief (maximum three pages) statement of proposed research, and three references. There is no firm application deadline and applications will be reviewed periodically.

Applications materials should be sent to the following address:

Dr. Stephen Mackwell
Director, Lunar and Planetary Institute
3600 Bay Area Boulevard
Houston TX 77058-1113
resume@lpi.usra.edu

The Universities Space Research Association is an Equal Opportunity Employer.

Postdoctoral Positions

The Lunar and Planetary Institute (LPI) seeks a self-motivated postdoctoral researcher to undertake work in any area of the planetary sciences, with preference given to topics that enhance the interactions between LPI and the Astromaterials Research Group at the NASA Johnson Space Center (JSC).

Applicants should have a Ph.D. in planetary sciences or a geosciences-related field. Postdoctoral positions will be offered for an initial period of up to two years, with possible extension to a maximum of three years. Applicants should send a letter of interest, a curriculum vita with list of relevant publications, a brief (maximum three pages) statement of proposed research, and a list of three references to:

Dr. Stephen Mackwell
Director, Lunar and Planetary Institute
3600 Bay Area Boulevard
Houston TX 77058-1113
resume@lpi.usra.edu

There is no firm application deadline and applications will be reviewed periodically.

The Lunar and Planetary Institute is located in Houston, Texas. Located 25 miles from the historic Gulf Coast, Houston is a vibrant, international city famous for outstanding low cost restaurants, arts and entertainment, and outdoor activities such as bird watching and kayaking located 25 miles from the historic gulf coast.

The Universities Space Research Association is an Equal Opportunity Employer.

"Urey Fellows" at the Lunar and Planetary Institute (LPI)

The Universities Space Research Association’s Lunar and Planetary Institute (LPI) in Houston, Texas, seeks candidates for its “Urey Fellows” program in planetary sciences. This prestigious fellows program is aimed at the postdoctoral level and recognizes excellence in research for scientists within 5 years of completion of the PhD. Fellows are expected to perform much of their research at the LPI or within the Astromaterials Group at the Johnson Space Center (ARES), but may spend up to 6 months per year at other institutions. Fellows will be allowed significant latitude in defining their own research direction. Highly competitive levels of remuneration and support for research and travel will be provided to successful candidates.

Applicants for this position should have a Ph.D. in a planetary and space sciences-related field before taking up the position. “Urey Fellows” will be offered support for an initial period of two years, with possible extension to a maximum of three years.

Applicants should send a letter of interest, a curriculum vita with list of relevant publications, a brief (maximum three pages) statement of proposed research, and a list of three references. Consideration of applications will begin on January 15, 2006 and will continue until positions are filled. Applications materials should be sent to

Dr. Stephen Mackwell
Director, Lunar and Planetary Institute
3600 Bay Area Boulevard
Houston TX 77058-1113
resume@lpi.usra.edu

Further information on current research and facilities at the LPI can be found on our website at www.lpi.usra.edu and for the ARES at ares.jsc.nasa.gov.

The Universities Space Research Association is an Equal Opportunity Employer.

Program Coordinator

In this role, you will report to the Associate Director for Operations and work closely with the Scientific Lead to coordinate all aspects of the NASA Lunar Science Institute at the Lunar and Planetary Institute (NLSI) including:

Developing a marketing approach for the NLSI program; including but not limited to press releases, brochures, and web site development;
Work in partnership with the LPI/JSC NLSI team to develop plans, goals and objectives for implementation and program administration of the LPI/JSC NLSI program.
Locate supplies for displaying those materials at the lunar test site
Coordinating activities for NLSI within the LPI, NASA entities, partner institutions, and the science community
Provide budget assessments for the necessary resources to implement programs
Follow-up with interns and graduate students at collaborating institutions
Research various resources to “market” our lunar program.
Identifying and capitalizing on opportunities to promote programs
Monitoring all scheduled deliverables, including scientific and financial reporting
Providing logistical support for team meetings, workshops and conferences; and plan and implement activities and products associated with scientific conferences
Provide leadership in training for NLSI activities.
Participate in and provide administrative support for all LPI/JSC NLSI management activities with the leads for Science/EPO/Training
Print and collate materials for media and E/PO events at lunar test site and locate supplies for displaying those materials
Work with subcontractors to ensure funding continuity and timely submission of reports
Print geological descriptions and collate into a professional-looking field briefing document

Requirements:

Extensive writing and communication skills in English, as well as ability to write routine reports, press releases and correspondence.
Ability to communicate effectively and professionally in both oral and written formats, including presentations to the scientific research community and government representatives.
Ability to interpret data and technical instructions, and develop guidelines and procedures.
Knowledge of programs and applicable regulations and procedures as they relate to government grants and contracts
Bachelor’s degree with 2-5 years experience in coordination of scientific programs is required.

Interested candidates must send a letter of interest, a resume or curriculum vita and three references to resume@lpi.usra.edu , no later than November 15, 2009. Review of candidates will begin October 31, 2009, with a hiring decision, as soon as possible thereafter. Further information on current research and facilities at the LPI can be found on our website.

The Universities Space Research Association is an Equal Opportunity Employer.

Aerospace Scholars Program Manager

Universities Space Research Association (USRA), a non-profit consortium of universities, seeks a Program Manager for a full-time exempt position. Candidate will work with NASA and education partners to coordinate, implement, and facilitate interactive educational curriculum experiences and STEM workshops for secondary and undergraduate student programs.

Qualifications: Bachelor’s degree in education, science, mathematics, technology, business, or related discipline; experience using technology and Microsoft Office Suite; experience managing resources and coordinating the work of others; excellent and professional verbal, written, and technical communication skills required. Teaching experience or related management experience, a plus.

Successful candidate possesses interpersonal, team building and diplomacy skills, while working cooperatively with people of diverse backgrounds and ages. Demonstrate the capability to manage multiple tasks, while complying with contract requirements, managing budgets, and meeting stringent deadlines. Working knowledge of NASA’s space program is a plus.

Salary is commensurate with experience and capabilities; excellent benefits program. Applicants should submit a resume, letter of interest, and 3 professional references to resume@lpi.usra.edu . Review of candidates will begin December 1, 2009, with a hiring decision, as soon as possible thereafter. Further information on current research and facilities at the LPI can be found on our website.

Universities Space Research Association is an Equal Opportunity Employer.

Last updated November 4, 2009