Job Details

New ideas are all around us, but only a few will change the world. That’s our focus at JPL. We ask the biggest questions, then search the universe for answers—literally. We build upon ideas that have guided generations, then share our discoveries to inspire generations to come. Your mission—your opportunity—is to seek out the answers that bring us one step closer. If you’re driven to discover, create, and inspire something that lasts a lifetime and beyond, you’re ready for JPL.

Located in Pasadena, California, JPL has a campus-like environment situated on 177 acres in the foothills of the San Gabriel Mountains and offers a work environment unlike any other: we inspire passion, foster innovation, build collaboration, and reward excellence.

This position requires a researcher at the postdoc level who has recently finished their PhD in geology/geomorphology or related fields that brings specialized expertise in process geomorphology/geology on the origin and evolution of Mars surface terrains and features and quantitative changes with time. The position requires specific experience mapping surface geomorphic features and terrains on Mars using geographic information systems, characterizing their remote sensing properties in global Mars datasets, and quantifying geomorphic feature size and characteristics as a means to better understand their origin, evolution and rate of change over time. The position offers the opportunity to get involved in scientific aspects of the Mars SkyFall mission. The postdoc is expected lead conference abstracts and associated presentations and write and contribute to peer-reviewed publications.

Candidate Qualifications:

PhD in planetary geology and/or geomorphology or related fields

In depth knowledge and experience in Mars geology and geomorphology with experience working with Mars remote sensing data sets

Experience in process geomorphology investigations and mapping

Experience in making planetary geology maps based on remote sensing data

Excellent Geographic Information System skills

Experience and background knowledge of glacial and periglacial processes would be helpful

Experience with digital elevation model creation and analysis using orbital and/or drone data would be helpful

Experience and proficiency in writing peer-reviewed abstracts and publications

Experience in contributing to writing/developing research grants and proposals

The appointee will carry out research in collaboration with the JPL advisor, resulting in publications in the open literature.

Applicants may be subject to additional program requirements by NASA. Postdoctoral Scholar positions are awarded for a minimum of one-year period and may be renewed up to a maximum of three years. Candidates should submit the following to this site: CV, representative publications, contact information for three references, and a cover letter stating their research accomplishments and interests.

JPL has a catalog of benefits and perks that span from the traditional to the unique. This includes a variety of health, dental, vision, wellbeing, and retirement plans, paid time off, learning, rideshare, childcare, flexible schedule, parental leave and many more. Our focus is on work-life balance, and living healthy, fulfilling lives as we Dare Mighty Things Together. For benefits eligible positions, benefits are effective the first day of the month coincident with or immediately following the employee’s start date.

For further benefits information click Benefits and Perks

The hiring range displayed below is specifically for those who will work in or reside in the location listed. In extending an offer, Jet Propulsion Laboratory considers factors including, but not limited to, the candidate’s job related skills, experience, knowledge, and relevant education/training.

The typical full time equivalent annual hiring range for this job in Pasadena, California.

JPL is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to sex, race, color, religion, national origin, citizenship, ancestry, age, marital status, physical or mental disability, medical condition, genetic information, pregnancy or perceived pregnancy, gender, gender identity, gender expression, sexual orientation, protected military or veteran status or any other characteristic or condition protected by Federal, state or local law.

In addition, JPL is a VEVRAA Federal Contractor.

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Pay Transparency Nondiscrimination Provision

The Jet Propulsion Laboratory is a federal facility. Due to rules imposed by NASA, JPL will not accept applications from citizens of designated countries or those born in a designated country unless they are U.S. Citizens, Legal Permanent Residents of the U.S or have other protected status under 8 U.S.C. 1324b(a)(3). The Designated Countries List is available here.