Exoplanet Habitability and Biosignatures with 3D Climate Modeling and Observation Simulation
About the role
The Exoplanet Habitability and Biosignatures with 3D Climate Modeling and Observation Simulation project focuses on theoretical model investigations to constrain the design of the Habitable Worlds Observatory (HWO), a space telescope capable of measuring the reflected light from Earth-size planets orbiting other stars. This project utilizes the ROCKE-3D planetary general circulation model to understand planetary habitability and simulate surface and atmospheric states for diverse planets.
Responsibilities
- Conduct theoretical model investigations to optimize telescope design and identify optimal observing locations for habitable exoplanets.
- Develop and analyze observational data to assess the detectability of atmospheric or surface features on exoplanets.
- Collaborate with advisors and other researchers to refine models and improve understanding of planetary habitability.
- Use the ROCKE-3D model to study rocky planets in our Solar System and scenarios of habitability for discovered exoplanets.
- Explore theoretical concepts through idealized exoplanet experiments.
Requirements
- Background in physics, statistics, and experience analyzing observational and model datasets.
- Experience with astronomy, planetary science, computer science, mathematical modeling, C or FORTRAN95, and Python or R.
Qualifications
- Doctoral degree in relevant field.
Skills
- Strong analytical skills.
- Experience with scientific computing and modeling.
- Ability to work independently and collaboratively.
Benefits
- Unique research opportunities at NASA Centers, Headquarters, or affiliated research institutes.
- Competitive one- to three-year fellowship.
Pay
Details TBD.
Schedule
Details TBD.
Benefits
- Uniquely tailored research projects aligned with NASA missions.
- Opportunities to contribute to cutting-edge research in astrobiology.
- Competitive compensation package.
Note: Applications must be submitted through Zintellect and follow the instructions provided on the NASA Postdoctoral Program website.
A complete application to the NASA Postdoctoral Program includes:
- Research proposal
- Three letters of recommendation
- Official doctoral transcript documents
The Habitable Worlds Observatory (HWO) is a space telescope designed to measure the reflected light from Earth-size planets orbiting other stars. The technical specifications for this "direct imaging" of exoplanets are currently under development. Theoretical model investigations are essential to optimize telescope design, determine the best locations for observing habitable exoplanets, and quantify the detectability of atmospheric or surface features.
The ROCKE-3D planetary general circulation model is used to understand planetary habitability. Simulated surface and atmospheric states can serve as boundary conditions for telescope observation simulators, which help quantify the detectability of phenomena of interest. The model can also be applied to study rocky planets in our Solar System at different stages of their history, scenarios of habitability for discovered exoplanets, and idealized exoplanet experiments.
Successful applicants should have a background in physics, statistics, and experience analyzing observational and model datasets. Experience with astronomy, planetary science, computer science, mathematical modeling, C or FORTRAN95, and Python or R is highly desirable.
The field of science for this opportunity is Astrobiology. Advisors for the project include Nancy Kiang, whose contact information is provided.
This opportunity is closed to applicants who are Senior Fellows (5 years or more past PhD).
The Habitable Worlds Observatory (HWO) is a space telescope designed to measure the reflected light from Earth-size planets orbiting other stars. The technical specifications for this "direct imaging" of exoplanets are currently under development. Theoretical model investigations are essential to optimize telescope design, determine the best locations for observing habitable exoplanets, and quantify the detectability of atmospheric or surface features.
The ROCKE-3D planetary general circulation model is used to understand planetary habitability. Simulated surface and atmospheric states can serve as boundary conditions for telescope observation simulators, which help quantify the detectability of phenomena of interest. The model can also be applied to study rocky planets in our Solar System at different stages of their history, scenarios of habitability for discovered exoplanets, and idealized exoplanet experiments.
Successful applicants should have a background in physics, statistics, and experience analyzing observational and model datasets. Experience with astronomy, planetary science, computer science, mathematical modeling, C or FORTRAN95, and Python or R is highly desirable.
The field of science for this opportunity is Astrobiology. Advisors for the project include Nancy Kiang, whose contact information is provided.
This opportunity is closed to applicants who are Senior Fellows (5 years or more past PhD).