Venus exploration has gained considerable interest and relevance in recent years. It has been called a virtual ""twin"" of Earth and has significant similarities in terms of size, initial composition, and solar-radiative influences. However, its planetary conditions contrast drastically from that of Earth. Venus has a dense atmosphere composed predominantly of carbon dioxide with a significant greenhouse effect, and an average surface temperature of ~460 ÂșC. Only limited in situ data of the atmosphere has been obtained, and what has been obtained was with atmospheric balloons that have drifted in an uncontrolled trajectory in the cloud layer. Many questions remain about the Venus atmosphere including the driving mechanisms of superrotation, the nature of cloud structure that differs dramatically from Earth, and the nature of an unknown UV absorber. Other unanswered questions include the degree of mixing (especially below the cloud decks), the possibility of current or prior biological presence in the more temperate cloud layers, and so on.
Recent instrument and technology developments, and new mission concepts that incorporate aerial elements, have been explored. Potential future mission opportunities exist spawning interest for in situ and perhaps long duration presence in the Venus atmosphere. NASA Glenn has been developing a test capability to simulate and explore the Venus atmosphere including the cloud layers. This capability allows for pursuing science investigations, developing necessary technologies and instruments for aerial systems, and generating aerial mission concepts.
This postdoctoral fellowship concentrates on in situ Venus chemical and physics investigations focusing on the Venus atmosphere / clouds. Opportunities for research can include but not limited to research in the chemistry, physics and dynamics of atmospheres as well as exploring the capabilities of potential instrumentation suites to provide relevant science data, including composition, dynamic chemistry, particle detection and tracking, and life detection. The core of this work is aimed at preparing NASA to have the relevant core scientific understanding and capabilities to conduct scientific investigations in the Venus atmosphere, although other target bodies may also be of interest.
The candidate will have access to unique experimental capabilities and instrumentation technology to carry out the studies. In particular, the candidate will have access to the utilization of the Glenn Extreme Environment Rig (GEER). Coupled with this characterization capability, a range of human talent and facility capability for instrumentation, sensors, and electronics is present.
The candidate may use these capabilities coupled with ongoing studies of potential Venus mission scenarios to conduct scientific investigations anywhere in the Venus atmosphere, including the cloud layers. Research can also entail development and verification of various forms of instrumentation required to implement future missions in the respective environments. Similar science for other planetary bodies may also be considered based on relevance to these research topics and applicant interest.
Requirements are a recent Ph.D. in atmospheric chemistry or physics. Experience in experiment design or instrument/space craft system development is desirable.
The position is for two years with a possible extension to three years.
The primary point of contact for this opportunity is Dr. Tibor Kremic, whose contact information is included on the list of advisors. Please contact Dr. Kremic for details about this opportunity.
Location:
Glenn Research Center
Cleveland, Ohio
Field of Science:Planetary Science
Advisors:
Tibor Kremic
Tibor.Kremic@nasa.gov
216-433-5003
Gary W. Hunter
Gary.W.Hunter@nasa.gov
216-433-6459
Whether you are just starting your career or already at a senior level, ORAU offers internships, fellowships, research opportunities, and contract positions that can provide you with invaluable experience. Download the ORAU Pathfinder mobile app and find the right opportunity to propel you along your career path!
You gave a rating of 0 star(s)
SECURITY/PRIVACY NOTICE
By continuing to use this system you indicate your awareness of and consent to the following terms and conditions of use. LOGOUT IMMEDIATELY if you do not agree to the conditions stated in this warning.
SECURITY NOTICE
This system is part of a Federal information system. This system is monitored for security purposes to ensure it remains available to all users and to protect information in the system. The system employs software programs to monitor network traffic to identify unauthorized activities. By accessing this system, you are expressly consenting to these monitoring activities. Unauthorized attempts to defeat or circumvent security features; to use the system for other than intended purposes; to deny service to authorized users; to access, obtain, alter, damage, or destroy information; to upload or change information; to otherwise cause system or information damage; or otherwise to interfere with the system or its operation, is prohibited. Evidence of such acts may be dis-closed to law enforcement authorities and result in prosecution under the Computer Fraud and Abuse Act of 1986 and the National Information Infrastructure Protection Act of 1996, or other applicable laws.
PRIVACY NOTICE
This system is for authorized use only. Use of this system constitutes consent to security monitoring and testing. All activity is logged with your host name and IP address. Users (authorized or unauthorized) have no explicit or implicit expectation of privacy. Any or all uses of this system and all files on this system may be intercepted, monitored, recorded, copied, audited, inspected, and dis-closed to authorized site and law enforcement personnel, as well as authorized officials of other agencies, both domestic and foreign. By using this system, the user consents to such interception, monitoring, recording, copying, auditing, inspection, and disclosure at the discretion of authorized site or law enforcement personnel. Unauthorized or improper use of this system may result in administrative disciplinary action and civil and criminal penalties.
You have been inactive on this page for . You will be logged out after 03:00:00.
Select an icon below to visit the website and download an appropriate browser.
For help, please email Zintellect@orau.org.
Question: What is the deadline for submitting an application?
Answer: Not all opportunities have application deadlines. Some opportunities remain open until they are filled. If an opportunity has an application deadline, then it will be listed in the opportunity details or in the opportunity catalog.
Question: How do I reset my password?
Answer: If you have forgotten your password or wish to reset your password, use the "Forgot password or username?" tab on the login to reset it.
Question: I forgot my username. How do I retrieve it?
Answer: Use the "Forgot password or username?" tab on the login. You will receive an email containing your username.
Question: What do I need to submit an application?
Answer: Typically, applicants are required to submit a resume or CV, an official copy of their transcripts or academic record, and a minimum of two references at the time they apply. Additional requirements such as a writing sample, thesis or dissertation, etc. may be required. Review the opportunity details for additional information about the requirements for applying for an opportunity.
Question: Where do I upload my transcripts?
Answer: If required, you will be asked to upload your transcript as a part of the application process.
Question: Where do I submit a writing sample?
Answer: If required, you will be asked to upload a writing sample as part of the application process.
Question: Can a family member serve as a reference?
Answer: No; family members may not serve as references. References must be able to speak to your educational and/or professional experience. At least one academic reference is preferred.
Our Zintellect A.I. is constantly learning how to Match you to our opportunities! So, we want to know when we get it right or when we get it wrong. This will help us make our better! Plus, as a potential applicant to one of our many opportunities across the country, we value you and want to help you on your career path!