Post Doctoral Fellow - Magnetosphere

Company: Johns Hopkins Applied Physics Laboratory
Location: Laurel
Posted on: June 13, 2021

Job Description:

Are you passionate about scientific research of Earth's magnetosphere?

If so, we may have the job for you.

The Johns Hopkins University Applied Physics Laboratory is seeking a Postdoctoral Associate to conduct basic scientific research on kinetic modeling of Earth's magnetotail and the inner magnetosphere, and on augmentation of the first-principles simulations by data mining, ingestion, and assimilation.

The APL Space Physics Group has a broad and active basic research program that includes data analysis as well as theory and modeling studies of the 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. Active missions in which it participates include, among others, New Horizons, Geotail, ACE, Voyager 1 and 2, Van Allen Probes, Juno, MMS, Solar Probe Plus, and Solar Orbiter. Approved future missions include IMAP, JUICE, and Europa Clipper.

As a Post Doctoral Fellow, your primary responsibility will focus on kinetic simulations (particle-in-cell, hybrid or magnetohydrodynamic with kinetic corrections) of Earth's magnetotail and the inner magnetosphere, and their further development through mining, ingestion and assimilation of data. The successful candidate would be expected to publish original research in peer-reviewed journals and team with SRP staff to pursue external support for continued research as well as projects relating to past, ongoing, and future missions.

In addition, you will...

• Conduct space plasma physics research, development and adaptation of simulation and data analytics codes.
• Author papers for publication in peer-reviewed journals.
• Prepare for and participate in scientific conferences.
• Develop innovative scientific research efforts and proposing to competed solicitations.

You meet our minimum qualifications for the job if you...

• Have completed a PhD in Physics or in a related field, or have demonstrated equivalent experience in a scientific field applicable to space physics and have extensive demonstrated experience in kinetic plasma simulations or data analytics.
• Have a record of published first author scientific papers in peer-reviewed journals.

You'll go above and beyond our minimum requirements if you...

• Have in-depth knowledge of plasma physics, numerical methods and computational physics with applications to astrophysical or space environments, including planetary magnetospheres.
• Experience with programming languages (e.g., Fortran, C, Java, Python) and familiarity with modern data analytics (machine learning, data mining, ingestion and assimilation) will be an asset.
• Of particular interest is experience with particle-in-cell, hybrid simulations or magnetohydrodynamic simulations with kinetic corrections. At the same time, it is important that the applicant is self-motivated, able to work independently and interested in learning new methods and tools.

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 www.jhuapl.edu/careers.

Keywords: Johns Hopkins Applied Physics Laboratory, Baltimore , Post Doctoral Fellow - Magnetosphere, Other , Laurel, Maryland