Postdoc: Advance coronagraphic mask design and modeling with the Habitable Worlds Observatory (HWO)

JPL/NASA • Pasadena, CA

7d • Onsite

About The Position

JPL’s Optics and Spectroscopy Section seeks a postdoctoral scholar to advance coronagraphic mask design and modeling for the Habitable Worlds Observatory (HWO), enabling the direct imaging of Earth-like exoplanets. The research includes developing and validating vector diffraction models of coronagraphic optics, numerically optimizing coronagraph masks, improving mask fabrication processes, conducting experiments on coronagraph testbeds, and publishing scientific results in high-contrast imaging.

The appointee will conduct research in collaboration with a JPL advisor, with results published in the open literature. Postdoctoral appointments are for at least one year and may be renewed for up to a maximum of four years. Applicants should submit a CV, representative publications, contact information for three references, and a cover letter describing their research accomplishments and interests. Applicants may be subject to additional NASA program requirements.

Requirements

• Ph.D. in Optics, Astrophysics, Physics, Mechanical Engineering, Aerospace Engineering, or a closely related field.
• Experience in high-contrast imaging, optical modeling, optical instrumentation, wavefront correction, or related experimental research.
• Experience using finite-difference time-domain (FDTD) software packages such as MEEP or Lumerical.
• Experience using clusters and GPUs for large computational tasks.
• Proficiency in scientific programming using Python, MATLAB, or similar programming languages.
• Demonstrated record of peer-reviewed publications.
• Excellent written and oral communication skills.

Responsibilities

• Conduct independent research on vector diffraction modeling of various coronagraphic masks.
• Validate mask models through laboratory experiments at the High Contrast Imaging Testbed (HCIT) facility.
• Develop requirements for mask fabrication tolerances and materials needed in the HWO contrast budget.
• Optimize coronagraphic masks using algorithmic differentiation and other advanced methods.
• Use artificial intelligence tools to improve mask design and modeling processes.
• Publish research findings in peer-reviewed journals and present results at national and international conferences.
• Collaborate with multidisciplinary teams in numerical optimization, optical design, optical modeling, microdevice fabrication, and coronagraph testbeds.
• Conduct research in collaboration with a JPL advisor and publish the results in the open literature.

Benefits

• Health, dental, and vision plans
• Wellbeing plans
• Retirement plans
• Paid time off
• Learning opportunities
• Rideshare benefits
• Childcare
• Flexible schedule
• Parental leave

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Intern
• Education Level: Ph.D. or professional degree