Astrophysics Researcher

The Universities Space Research Association (USRA) is seeking a highly skilled Astrophysics Researcher to join our team in Huntsville, AL. The successful candidate will assist the Meteoroid Environment Office (MEO) in defining the meteoroid environment as it pertains to spacecraft design and risk. Key responsibilities include developing models and simulations, analyzing observational data, conducting astronomical observations, and presenting results to the NASA customer and at conferences.

Key Responsibilities:

• Developing and maintaining models and simulations of the meteoroid environment, including meteoroid structure and properties.
• Analyzing observational data collected from telescopes, cameras, and other instrumentation.
• Conducting astronomical observations of meteors and their parent bodies, and monitoring the Moon for flashes caused by meteoroid impacts.
• Presenting results to the NASA customer and at conferences.
• Publishing results in peer-reviewed journals.

Requirements:

• Ph.D. in Astronomy, Physics, or a related field from an accredited institution.
• At least 2 first-author publications in a peer-reviewed journal.
• Extensive experience coding in Python with formal training in computer science.
• Working knowledge of statistics and experience in operating telescopes or observational astronomy coursework.
• Strong technical writing and presentation skills, with the ability to communicate complex ideas to both technical and non-technical audiences.

Working Requirements:

• This position is not available for remote working and requires regular attendance in the office.
• The normal workday is from 7:30 a.m. through 4:30 p.m., Monday through Friday.

US Citizenship: Must be a US Citizen.

Travel: The potential exists to travel to other US government facilities and to conferences.