Gravitational Physics in Space: Theory and Experiment

Gravitational Physics in Space:
Theory and Experiment

Organization: National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA)

Reference Code: 0016-NPP-MAR
26-JPL-Astrophys

How to Apply: All applications must be submitted in Zintellect. Please visit the NASA Postdoctoral Program website for application instructions and requirements:

How to Apply

| NASA Postdoctoral Program. A complete application to the NASA Postdoctoral Program includes:

• Research proposal
• Three letters of recommendation
• Official doctoral transcript documents

Final date to receive applications: 3/1/2026 6:00:59 PM Eastern Time Zone

Our research program is dedicated to advancing the frontiers of gravitational physics, relativistic astrophysics, and precision navigation technologies, with a strategic emphasis on enabling transformative scientific discoveries and mission capabilities. Core research areas include:

• Gravitational and Fundamental Physics:
  Developing theoretical and experimental frameworks to test general relativity, alternative theories of gravity, and fundamental physical laws through high‑precision measurements and advanced modeling in relativistic celestial mechanics, astrophysics, and cosmology.
• High‑Precision Spacecraft Navigation:
  Advancing models of relativistic gravitational and non‑gravitational forces, solar‑system dynamics, and state‑of‑the‑art algorithms for spacecraft trajectory prediction, state reconstruction, and deep‑space mission navigation.
• Optical Astrometry and Laser Metrology:
  Pioneering high‑precision astrometry techniques and laser‑based metrology systems to achieve unprecedented accuracy in ranging, tracking, and observational platforms for both near‑Earth and deep‑space applications.
• High‑Power Laser Technologies:
  Developing coherent beam combination, high‑power laser ranging, and power transmission systems to support advanced sensing, communication, and propulsion solutions for space missions.
• Detection and Characterization of Near‑Earth and Interstellar Objects (NEOs and ISOs):
  Innovating optical sensor designs and synthetic tracking methodologies to identify, track, and characterize faint, fast‑moving objects, enabling proactive planetary defense and interstellar science.
• Solar Gravitational Lens (SGL) Exploration:
  Designing mission architectures and technological frameworks for direct, high‑resolution imaging and spectroscopy of exoplanets using the solar gravitational lens, providing unprecedented observational capabilities for distant planetary systems.
• Solar Sailing and High‑Velocity Propulsion:
  Investigating advanced solar sailing concepts for achieving high‑speed transit velocities, with applications for interplanetary and interstellar exploration, emphasizing scalable, low‑mass propulsion solutions.
• Gravitational Microlensing and Astrophysical Observations:
  Exploiting gravitational microlensing to study planetary and astrophysical systems, enhancing our understanding of the distribution and properties of distant celestial objects.
• High‑Precision Science with GNSS:
  Leveraging Global Navigation Satellite Systems (GNSS) for advanced scientific applications, including time transfer, Earth observation, and spacecraft tracking with sub‑centimeter accuracy.

These efforts are designed to address critical challenges in space exploration, providing solutions that bridge fundamental science and mission technology. Our work supports the long‑term vision of advancing humanity’s reach into the cosmos, transforming our understanding of the universe, and enabling next‑generation space missions.

Location: Jet Propulsion Laboratory, Pasadena, California

Field of Science: Astrophysics

Advisors: Slava G. Turyshev, Slava.

G.Turysheva.gov, 818‑393‑2600

Eligibility: Applications from Designated Countries will not be accepted unless the applicant is a Legal Permanent Resident of the United States. A complete list of Designated Countries can be found at: https://(Use the "Apply for this Job" box below)..

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

Questions about this opportunity? Please email npp

Eligibility Requirements: Doctoral Degree

Seniority level: Internship

Employment type: Full‑time