Understanding radiation effects in dust and icy regolith airless bodies

Organization

National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA)

November 1, 2026 6:00:59 PM Eastern Time Zone

The NASA Postdoctoral Program (NPP) offers unique research opportunities to highly-talented scientists to engage in ongoing NASA research projects at NASA Centers, Headquarters, or a NASA-affiliated research institute. The Planetary Magnetospheres Lab (695) in the Solar System Exploration Division (690) at NASA’s Goddard Space Flight Center seeks a postdoctoral researcher to carry out experimental studies on a newly built ultra‑high‑vacuum radiation simulation chamber in the SpaceREDI laboratory.

This strictly laboratory‑based position invites the candidate to propose a project using neutral and ion mass spectrometry combined with infrared spectroscopy to investigate the effects of ionizing radiation on icy regolith analogs representative of comets, polar cold traps, or icy moons.

• Design and construct experimental apparatus.
• Operate and maintain the radiation simulation chamber.
• Perform mass spectrometry and infrared spectroscopy experiments.
• Analyze data and develop computational models.
• Communicate results in written reports and oral presentations.

Planetary Science

Micah Schaible – micah.j.schaible – (406) 207‑0211

U.S. Citizens; U.S. Lawful Permanent Residents (LPR);
Foreign Nationals eligible for an Exchange Visitor J‑1 visa; and applicants for LPR, asylees, or refugees in the U.S. with a valid EAD card and pending I‑485 or I‑589 forms.

• Ph.D. (or equivalent) in Planetary Science, Physics, Geology, Astrophysics, or related field.
• Experience with apparatus design and construction of experimental systems, fast ion and electron beams, continuous and pulsed photon sources, ultra‑high vacuums, infrared spectral reflectance measurements, quadrupole mass spectrometry, and associated electronics.
• Proficiency in programming, multidimensional data analysis, Lab View, Python, Autodesk Inventor, Solid Works, SIMION, Linux/Mac OS, and Windows OS.
• Strong background in at least some of the above areas, proven research ability, and evidence of future research potential.
• Excellent written and oral communication skills.

Mikeala – npp

• Doctoral Degree.