Research Scientist, Astrobiology and Ocean Worlds

Job Title: Research Scientist, Astrobiology and Ocean Worlds

Location: Pasadena, CA

The Jet Propulsion Laboratory invites applications for a Research Scientist position to join the Astrobiology and Ocean Worlds Group within the Planetary Science Section. In this position, you will do the following:

• Lead development of instrumentation and/or mission concepts to explore the subsurface of Mars and other habitable environments.
• Write proposals for advancing research and instrument/mission development in the areas of planetary habitability, subsurface exploration, hydrology, energetics, thermodynamics, geodynamics and astrobiology.

This position requires the following qualifications:

• Ph.D. degree in Earth or Planetary Sciences or related scientific or technical discipline.
• Demonstrated working knowledge at the forefront in the fields of planetary habitability, geophysics, geodynamics, aqueous geochemistry, modeling and biology/astrobiology, including but not limited to the Mars subsurface.
• At least 5 years experience following the Ph.D. in research in one or more of the aforementioned fields.
• Peer-reviewed publications in high-impact journals in the aforementioned fields.
• Well-established record in obtaining funding as PI for scientific research and/or mission/instrument development.
• Excellent oral and written communication skills, with the ability to both work as part of a team and lead a team.

The following qualifications are preferred:

• Experience in design/development/operation of missions, technology or instruments flown to space (preferably as PI or other leadership role).
• Experience with mission concept development (preferably in a leadership role).
• A track record of leadership in the scientific community, such as a history of: (i) organization of workshops, conference sessions and academic courses; (ii) invited talks and keynote lectures; (iii) fellowships and awards; and (iv) participation in panels and reviews for publications and proposals.
• A record of teaching and/or mentoring the next generation of planetary scientists.

Complete applications will include a cover letter describing the applicant’s vision for their role at JPL as a leader and contributor in planetary science research, a curriculum vita including a bibliography of refereed and other work, a statement on research experience and research objectives, and contact information for at least three professional references.

Please visit http://jpl.jobs/jobs/2020-11866-Research-Scientist-III-Astrobiology-and-Ocean-Worlds to view the full description and apply. Applications received by June 8, 2020 will receive full consideration.