Asteroid Threat Assessment

About the role

The NASA Postdoctoral Program (NPP) offers unique research opportunities to highly-talented scientists to engage in ongoing NASA research projects at a NASA Center, NASA Headquarters, or at a NASA-affiliated research institute. These one- to three-year fellowships are competitive and are designed to advance NASA’s missions in space science, Earth science, aeronautics, space operations, exploration systems, and astrobiology.

Responsibilities

• Participate in interdisciplinary research projects focusing on understanding the potential threat to Earth due to asteroid impact.
• Study the population of near-Earth asteroids and their properties.
• Model the behavior of asteroids as they pass through the Earth's atmosphere and assess the damage caused by airbursts, ground impacts, and tsunamis.
• Create and refine reduced-order models to predict the effects of impact and possible mitigation options.
• Develop and incorporate improved hazard models into the Monte Carlo framework.
• Research and develop methods to assess and mitigate the risks associated with asteroid impacts.

Requirements

• A completed doctoral degree in a relevant field.
• Strong background in planetary science, atmospheric entry, and impact hazard research.
• Experience with probabilistic models and computational simulations.
• Ability to work independently and collaboratively in a multidisciplinary team environment.

Qualifications

• Passionate about advancing knowledge in planetary science and space science.
• Excellent communication skills to present research findings to both technical and non-technical audiences.
• Ability to work effectively in a dynamic, fast-paced environment.

Skills

• Proficiency in MATLAB, Python, or other relevant programming languages.
• Experience with data analysis and statistical modeling.
• Knowledge of geophysics, astrophysics, and atmospheric sciences.
• Ability to work with large datasets and perform complex simulations.

Benefits

• Competitive salary commensurate with experience.
• Opportunities for professional development and career advancement within NASA.
• Flexible working hours and remote work options.
• Access to state-of-the-art facilities and equipment.

Pay

• Salary range: $70,000 - $100,000 per year, depending on qualifications and experience.

Schedule

• Full-time position.
• One- to three-year term, with the possibility of extension.

Contact Information

For questions about this opportunity, please email npp@orau.org.

Point of Contact

Mikeala