Venus Surface-Atmosphere Experimental Studies

About the role

The Venus Surface-Atmosphere Experimental Studies position is part of the NASA Postdoctoral Program (NPP), offering unique research opportunities in planetary science at Goddard Space Flight Center in Greenbelt, Maryland.

Description

Venus is a hot, dry planet with an inhospitable atmosphere and is Earth's nearest planetary neighbor, excluding the moon. Despite extensive missions since the early 1960s, there is still much to learn about its chemistry on both the surface and lower atmosphere. To address this knowledge gap, this research focuses on investigating possible surface-atmospheric reactions using high-temperature room-pressure furnaces and a unique high-temperature/high-pressure chamber called vici, which simulates Venus-like conditions under a CO2 atmosphere.

Requirements

• Doctoral degree completed within the last 5 years
• Research proposal
• Three letters of recommendation
• Official doctoral transcript documents

Qualifications

• Strong background in planetary science or related field
• Experience with high-temperature and high-pressure experimental setups
• Interest in studying Venus surface-atmosphere reactions

Skills

• Excellent communication skills
• Ability to work independently and as part of a team
• Knowledge of planetary science and relevant experimental techniques

Benefits

• One to three-year fellowship
• Opportunities for professional development and networking
• Competitive salary and benefits package

Pay

Salary range: $65,000 - $75,000 per year

Schedule

Full-time, 12-month appointment

Contact

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