Experimental Studies Chemical Composition and Geological Processes of Icy Worlds

Organization

National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA)

The NASA Postdoctoral Program (NPP) offers unique research opportunities for highly talented scientists to engage in ongoing NASA research projects in space science, Earth science, aeronautics, space operations, exploration systems, and astrobiology. These one‑to‑three‑year fellowships are competitive and designed to advance NASA’s missions.

Icy worlds are intriguing targets in the search for evidence of life beyond our own planet. A robust understanding of how icy materials behave under planetary conditions is essential for informing models and planning observations to optimize the science return of missions. The focus of our research group is on putative materials relevant to ocean worlds such as clathrate hydrates, organic co‑crystals, and frozen brines.

Selected NPP fellows will help conduct research regarding the crystal structures, phase transition/behavior, heat capacity, thermal stability, and reaction of these materials using a complementary suite of in‑house analytical techniques, including infrared, Raman, UV spectroscopies, powder X‑ray diffraction, optical microscopy, and differential scanning calorimetry. These projects are directly relevant to NASA’s Science Strategy Plan and support the agency’s exploration initiatives.

• Conduct research on crystal structures, phase transitions, heat capacity, thermal stability, and reactions of icy materials for ocean worlds.
• Utilize spectroscopies (infrared, Raman, UV), powder X‑ray diffraction, optical microscopy, and differential scanning calorimetry.
• Assist in the planning and execution of experiments and data analysis.

• Planetary Science

Tuan Vu
tuan.h.vua.gov

• 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

• Doctoral degree.
• Significant laboratory experience and familiarity with experimental techniques described above.
• Expertise in crystallography and structure solution.

11/1/2026 6:00:59 PM Eastern Time Zone

0270-NPP-NOV
26-JPL-Planet Sci