View Jobs in All Categories:

Job Description

Post Doctoral Fellow - Space Plasmas Theory and Simulations

Description

Introduction:

The Johns Hopkins University Applied Physics Laboratory (APL) is seeking a Postdoctoral Fellow to conduct basic scientific research in the field of Solar and Space Physics with an emphasis on magnetohydrodynamic (MHD) and kinetic modeling of magnetospheric plasmas. The successful candidate will work in an exciting environment, interfacing with experts in state-of-the-art modeling of geospace and other space environment systems, and comprehensive data analysis from a multitude of space missions and ground facilities. The position will support the APL-led multi-institutional cross-disciplinary Center for Geospace Storms, which is one of the three NASA DRIVE Science Centers recently selected for Phase II, as well as a newly awarded NASA Living With a Star Strategic Capabilities project led by the Los Alamos National Laboratory (LANL) in collaboration with APL.

The APL Space Physics Group (SRP) has a broad and active basic research program that includes data analysis, theory and modeling studies of Earth 's magnetosphere and Sun-Earth connections, of other planetary magnetospheres, and of heliospheric and solar physics. It has significant development programs in space instrumentation and mission design. Currently, participation in active missions includes ACE, Geotail, Juno, MMS, New Horizons, Parker Solar Probe, Solar Orbiter, STEREO, and Voyagers 1 and 2. Approved future missions include Europa Clipper, EZIE, JUICE, and IMAP.

In addition, the Group is playing the leading role in the aforementioned Center for Geospace Storms. The Group seeks to apply advances in modeling, simulation, and analysis capabilities afforded by increased computational power to augment and maximize the scientific understanding obtained from new and existing space physics data sets, both observational and simulated.

Job Summary:

The research position focusses on two-way coupling of MHD or extended MHD (e.g., Hall MHD) with kinetic (test-particles and spectral) plasma simulations representing the physics of the Earth's magnetosphere. Extension of the developed techniques to other space plasma environments (e.g., the magnetospheres of Earth, Mercury, Saturn, and Jupiter, the heliosphere and solar corona) is encouraged, provided additional funding is secured. The research area includes the simulation of plasma processes in these environments and their analysis with the focus on the diagnosis of observable distinguishing signatures. The candidate will work in partnership with staff in the group with expertise in global MHD, test-particle and particle-in-cell (PIC) simulations, kinetic plasma theory and data analysis, as well as with experts on spectral kinetic simulations at LANL. The successful candidate would be expected to publish original research in peer-reviewed journals and team with SRP and other APL Space Exploration Sector staff to pursue external support for continued research and development for fundamental simulation research as well as projects relating to past, ongoing, and future missions.

Duties:

1. Conducting original research involving the development and adaptation of simulation codes to study space plasma systems of interest.
2. Authoring papers for publication in peer-reviewed journals.
3. Preparing for and participating in scientific conferences.
4. Developing innovative scientific research efforts and proposing to competed solicitations.

Note: This job summary and listing of duties is for the purpose of describing the position and its essential functions at time of hire and may change over time.

Qualifications

Required Qualifications:

The applicant must have completed a PhD in Physics, Math or in a related technical field, or the demonstrated equivalent experience. The applicant must have in-depth knowledge of state-of-the art MHD and kinetic plasma simulations, as well as experience and demonstrated proficiency with advanced technical computing using languages such as modern Fortran or C++ for high-performance computing, and Python, Matlab, or another comparable programming language, for pre-/post-processing and visualization. Prior knowledge of solar or space physics is desirable but not required if extensive experience is demonstrated in high-performance computing and scientific code development in a relevant domain of plasma physics. The applicant must have a record of published first author scientific papers in peer-reviewed journals.Can demonstrate that you are fully vaccinated against COVID-19. To ensure the safety and well-being of the community, APL has established a policy requiring that all staff be vaccinated against COVID-19. All staff members must provide proof of full vaccination or have an approved medical or religious accommodation by their start date.

Desired Qualifications:

Experience with solar or space plasma physics simulations is desirable. Deep knowledge of modern Fortran is preferred as is experience with version control.

Special Working Conditions: Travel to scientific meetings is required.
 

Why work at APL?

The Johns Hopkins University Applied Physics Laboratory (APL) brings world-class expertise to our nation’s most critical defense, security, space and science challenges. While we are dedicated to solving complex challenges and pioneering new technologies, what makes us truly outstanding is our culture. We offer a vibrant, welcoming atmosphere where you can bring your authentic self to work, continue to grow, and build strong connections with inspiring teammates.

At APL, we celebrate our differences and encourage creativity and bold, new ideas. Our employees enjoy generous benefits, including a robust education assistance program, unparalleled retirement contributions, and a healthy work/life balance. APL’s campus is located in the Baltimore-Washington metro area. Learn more about our career opportunities at http://www.jhuapl.edu/careers.

About Us

APL is an Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, creed, color, religion, sex, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, national origin, age, physical or mental disability, genetic information, veteran status, occupation, marital or familial status, political opinion, personal appearance, or any other characteristic protected by applicable law. APL is committed to promoting an innovative environment that embraces diversity, encourages creativity, and supports inclusion of new ideas. In doing so, we are committed to providing reasonable accommodation to individuals of all abilities, including those with disabilities. If you require a reasonable accommodation to participate in any part of the hiring process, please contact Accommodations@jhuapl.edu. Only by ensuring that everyone’s voice is heard are we empowered to be bold, do great things, and make the world a better place.