Geological fluid processes on other worlds

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

This program focuses on interpretation and modeling of geological fluid mechanical processes on other worlds, especially (cryo-)volcanic and hydrologic, using a combination of remote sensing techniques, terrestrial analog studies, geological interpretation, laboratory measurements and physical modeling.

Dr. Mitchell has a particular interest in coupled evolution of geologic fluid pathways, including volcanic vents, hydrological channels and caves, and associated hypothesis-driven science requirements for the formulation of future missions to icy worlds. However, he prefers to encourage candidates that pursue their own ideas, as long as there is sufficient overlap with his interests and capabilities.

• Examples include studies of the how Enceladus' jets and plume are erupted,
• the nature of karst-like processes on Titan,
• the viability of cryovolcanism on relatively unexplored worlds especially the moons of Uranus,
• and the formation of plumes and enigmatic landforms on Neptune's captured moon Triton.

Requirements

A Doctoral Degree is required.

Qualifications

Candidates should have a strong background in planetary science, earth science, or related fields. Experience with remote sensing techniques, terrestrial analog studies, geological interpretation, laboratory measurements and physical modeling is preferred.

Skills

Strong communication skills, ability to work independently, and collaboration with NASA scientists are essential.

Benefits

One- to three-year fellowships, competitive stipend, and access to state-of-the-art facilities.

Pay

Competitive stipend.

Schedule

Full-time, one- to three-year fellowship.

Location

Pasadena, California, at the Jet Propulsion Laboratory.

Contact Information

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

Point of Contact

Mikeala