Space Science Institute-posted 9 months ago
Full-time • Entry Level
College Park, MD
Professional, Scientific, and Technical Services

The Space Science Institute (SSI) invites applications for a Postdoctoral Research Scientist to be based in either Los Angeles, CA or Auburn, AL. The selected candidate will take a leading role in research on the 3-D morphology of ultra low frequency (ULF) waves and associated ion distributions in the Earth's ion foreshock. Foreshock ULF waves are generated when energetic ions reflected from the Earth's bow shock interact with the solar wind core population via one of several instability mechanisms; the goal of the project is to determine the influence of 3-D effects on the wave generation and evolution. The postdoctoral scientist will focus on analysis of state-of-the-art local and global hybrid simulations (ANGIE3D and Vlasiator) as well as computation of ULF wave growth rates using a arbitrary distribution function solver (LEOPARD). The selected candidate will work with SSI Research Scientist Dr. Seth Dorfman, who will be responsible for the observational aspects of the project. The postdoctoral scientist will also receive training from Dr. Yu Lin and Dr. Xueyi Wang at Auburn University in order to learn how to run the new ANGIE3D simulations required by the project. Results will aid our broader understanding of how waves generated by energetic particles behave in 3-D, which is of interest to present and future space missions.

  • Lead research on the 3-D morphology of ultra low frequency (ULF) waves and associated ion distributions in the Earth's ion foreshock.
  • Analyze local and global hybrid simulations (ANGIE3D and Vlasiator).
  • Compute ULF wave growth rates using an arbitrary distribution function solver (LEOPARD).
  • Collaborate with SSI Research Scientist Dr. Seth Dorfman on observational aspects of the project.
  • Receive training from Dr. Yu Lin and Dr. Xueyi Wang at Auburn University.
  • Contribute to the understanding of wave behavior generated by energetic particles in 3-D.
  • Ph.D. in space plasma physics or related fields required prior to the start date.
  • Demonstrated potential to publish research results in peer-reviewed high-quality journals.
  • Good communication skills.
  • Ability to work independently.
  • Skills that show the ability to learn ANGIE3D, Vlasiator, and LEOPARD quickly.
  • Experience with computational data analysis and plasma physics theory is considered an advantage.
  • Compensation up to $76,000/yr plus benefits.
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