2026 Radiation Effects Scientist

The Aerospace Corporation•El Segundo, CA

1d•$120,000 - $140,000•Onsite

About The Position

The Aerospace Corporation is the trusted partner to the nation’s space programs, solving the hardest problems and providing unmatched technical expertise. As the operator of a federally funded research and development center (FFRDC), we are broadly engaged across all aspects of space— delivering innovative solutions that span satellite, launch, ground, and cyber systems for defense, civil and commercial customers. When you join our team, you’ll be part of a special collection of problem solvers, thought leaders, and innovators. Join us and take your place in space. Physical Sciences Laboratories (PSL) supports the effective and timely development and operation of national security systems through scientific research and the application of advanced technologies. PSL has more than 150 specialized laboratories used to test, analyze, and troubleshoot virtually every aspect of rocket and satellite system design, development, construction, deployment, and operation. The expertise of the laboratories’ technical staff allows PSL to stay abreast of new technological developments and program support issues associated with rapidly evolving space systems. Become part of our unique Space Sciences Department team, where you'll contribute to cutting-edge space environment research that serves the national interest and supports the broader space community. We're looking for innovative, driven researchers eager to make direct contributions to space system design and mission operations for government, civil, and commercial customers navigating the challenges of the dynamic space radiation environment. Our customers want to use state-of-the-art components in severe radiation environments to push the performance envelopes of their mission. Testing and mitigating radiation effects allows them to take smart, measured risks to push the mission forward at speed and at scale. As a Radiation Effects Scientist in PSL's Space Sciences Department, you'll conduct both fundamental and applied research in engineering and science, tackling complex challenges related to how space radiation environments affect space system design and operation for the latest technologies. In this critical role, your work will span the topics of radiation environments and electronic component impacts to provide customers with tailored, risk-informed, mission-specific solutions. Success in this position requires strong communication skills—you'll share your findings and practical applications through direct customer engagement, presentations at scientific and engineering conferences, and peer-reviewed publications. Highlights of our lab's capabilities can be seen here: Virtual Tour The selected candidate will be required to work full-time, on-site at our facility in El Segundo, CA.

Requirements

Strong written and oral communication skills
Strong software development skills
Must work well in a team environment.
Possess organizational and time management skills.
Interpersonal skills to coordinate efforts and work with other internal and external organizations.
PhD degree from an accredited college/university program in electrical engineering, physics, or related discipline (pursuing or conferred within last 12 months)
0-1 year of industry work experience
Understanding of particle interactions with matter and electronics as well as a general understanding of accelerator physics
Understanding of microelectronics function and operation as well as technological and industry trends
Demonstrated communication and presentation skills with the ability to articulate complex technical issues
Willing to travel domestically and/or internationally approx. 10%
This position requires ability to obtain and maintain a security clearance, which is issued by the US government.
U.S citizenship is required to obtain a security clearance.
Transcripts

Nice To Haves

1+ years of experience in testing of electronics parts for radiation effects including single event effects from protons and heavy ions
Experience with community engagement in radiation effects on microelectronics
Experience designing and testing advanced radiation monitors
Current TS/SSBI (SCI) security clearance

Responsibilities

Conduct testing of microelectronic parts at particle accelerator and other facilities for single-event phenomena, total dose, and other radiation effects
Conduct research on radiation effects in microelectronics and deliver results in conferences and peer-reviewed publications
Be on the cutting edge to design advanced radiation monitors and instrumentation for laboratory and spaceflight applications to understand and characterize these environmental hazards
Duties, responsibilities, and activities may change, or new ones may be assigned as needed

Benefits

Comprehensive health care and wellness plans
Paid holidays, sick time, and vacation
Standard and alternate work schedules, including telework options
401(k) Plan — Employees receive a total company-paid benefit of 8%, 10%, or 12% of eligible compensation based on years of service and matching contributions; employees are immediately eligible and vested in the plan upon hire
Flexible spending accounts
Variable pay program for exceptional contributions
Relocation assistance
Professional growth and development programs to help advance your career
Education assistance programs
An inclusive work environment built on teamwork, flexibility, and respect