Origin of exoplanets JWST and far-infrared space telescopes
Listed on 2026-09-21
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Research/Development
Research Scientist, Data Scientist, Postdoctoral Research Fellow
Organization
National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA)
Reference Code0350-NPP-NOV
26-JPL-Astrophys
11/1/2026 6:00:59 PM Eastern Time Zone
DescriptionThe NASA Postdoctoral Program (NPP) offers unique research opportunities to highly-talented scientists to engage in ongoing NASA research projects at a NASA Center, NASA Headquarters, or at a NASA-affiliated research institute. These one- to three-year fellowships are competitive and are designed to advance NASA’s missions in space science, Earth science, aeronautics, space operations, exploration systems, and astrobiology.
About the NASA Postdoctoral ProgramThe NASA Postdoctoral Program (NPP) offers unique research opportunities to highly-talented scientists to engage in ongoing NASA research projects at a NASA Center, NASA Headquarters, or at a NASA-affiliated research institute. These one- to three-year fellowships are competitive and are designed to advance NASA’s missions in space science, Earth science, aeronautics, space operations, exploration systems, and astrobiology.
Description:JWST is returning a treasure trove of spectroscopic data, leading a revolution in our understanding of the structure, dynamics, and chemistry of primary planet-forming regions in protoplanetary disks. Tracing water and organics, both in the solid and gas-phase, the data allow us to measure fundamental properties of the disks for direct comparison with observations of the chemical make-up of exoplanetary atmospheres.
We are seeking applicants to work with extensive near- to mid-infrared spectroscopic data from JWST and SPHEREx as part of the JDISCS collaboration. The analyses include retrievals of parameters such as molecular abundances, and interpretation using state-of-the‑art radiative transfer and chemical models. The results of the work inform the development of future far-infrared space missions, including the Far-Infrared Probe concept, PRIMA.
We particularly encourage applicants with interests in processing and analysis of large data sets, development of scientific software, data pipelines, applied radiative transfer, and/or precise calibration of astrophysical data.
- JWST data: /2024
ApJ...963..158P/abstract - JDISCS: /abstract
- Future far-infrared observations: /2025
JATIS..11c1635P/abstract
Astrophysics
Advisors:Klaus Pontoppidan
klaus.m.pontoppidana.gov
Applications with citizens from Designated Countries will not be accepted at this time, unless they are Legal Permanent Residents of the United States.A complete list of Designated Countries can be found at: https://(Use the "Apply for this Job" box below)..
Eligibility is currently open to:- U.S. Citizens;
- U.S. Lawful Permanent Residents (LPR);
- Foreign Nationals eligible for an Exchange Visitor J-1 visa status; and,
- Applicants for LPR, asylees, or refugees in the U.S. at the time of application with
1) a valid EAD card and
2) I-485 or I-589 forms in pending status
Please email npp
QualificationsPhD in astronomy/astrophysics/astrochemistry/planetary science. Applicants with experience with Python, git/github, ai‑leveraged software development, radiative transfer or chemical codes, and/or infrared imaging and spectroscopy are encouraged to apply. Enthusiasm for working as part of a large collaboration/team is important.
Point of ContactMikeala
Eligibility Requirements- Degree:
Doctoral Degree.
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