X-Ray Analytical Scientist

Friends Of The Texas A&m University Libraries • College Station, TX

279d

About The Position

Are you passionate about space exploration and cutting-edge technology? Join our Geology Department as an X-ray Analytical Scientist and play a pivotal role in the ongoing operation, maintenance, and strategic development of the PIXL instrument aboard the Perseverance Mars rover. This part time position is primarily based in Pasadena, California, with occasional travel to College Station, Texas. You'll remotely analyze mission telemetry and conduct experiments with an engineering model at the Jet Propulsion Laboratory. Your expertise will be crucial in diagnosing operational anomalies and recommending mitigation strategies. Additionally, you'll assist in acquiring grants for future x-ray analytical instruments destined for the Moon and Mars and coordinate their development upon successful funding.

Requirements

• PhD in related field of science or engineering.
• 6 years of related experience in space flight hardware development, operations, and data interpretation.
• 10 years of experience in developing x-ray analytical instruments (preferred).
• Knowledge of Mars2020 software tools (i.e., MarsViewer, PIXLISE, DataDrive, etc.).
• Existing NASA security clearance.
• Ability to develop code for analyzing novel instrument data.
• Proficient in office software.
• Ability to comprehend and express information using inductive and deductive reasoning.
• Communicates effectively and professionally within interdisciplinary teams.

Responsibilities

• Conducts complex independent research using advanced knowledge and skills.
• Oversees worksite preparation, cleaning, and supply management.
• Analyzes research data and summarizes results.
• Writes and contributes to research papers and publications.
• Diagnoses operational anomalies for the PIXL instrument on the Perseverance rover.
• Supports PIXL maintenance and development through experiments and collaboration with JPL engineers.
• Assists with grant acquisition for future x-ray analytical instruments for Moon and Mars missions.
• Assists student researchers and associates.
• Supervises assigned staff and students.
• Prepares presentation materials for small and large groups.
• Participates in preparing technical progress reports for research sponsors.

Benefits

• Medical, prescription drug, dental, vision, life and AD&D, flexible spending accounts, and long-term disability insurance with Texas A&M contributing to employee health and basic life premiums.
• 12-15 days of annual paid holidays.
• Up to eight hours of paid sick leave and at least eight hours of paid vacation each month.
• Automatic enrollment in the Teacher Retirement System of Texas.
• Free exercise programs and release time.
• Access to free LinkedIn Learning training, webinars, and limited financial support to attend conferences, workshops, and more.
• Educational release time and tuition assistance for completing a degree while a Texas A&M employee.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Part-time
• Career Level: Senior
• Education Level: Ph.D. or professional degree