About this role
Job SummaryYou will serve as an Astrophysicist in the Space Science and Astrobiology Division of the Science Directorate and lead pioneering studies in the design, development, and testing of novel exoplanet coronagraph technologies e.g., Photonics) at NASA Ames Research Center. The exoplanet technology group develops and tests high contrast coronagraph technologies for directly imaging exoplanets around single and binary stars.
QualificationsIn addition to the Basic Education Requirement (in the Education section below), to qualify for this position you must meet the requirements below. Specialized experience is experience that has equipped you with the particular ability, skill, and knowledge to successfully perform the duties of this position and is typically in or related to this line of work. NASA utilizes OPM-approved qualification and rating requirements specific for Aerospace Technology (AST) positions which recognizes NASA's unique aerospace work. The specific qualifications and minimum education requirements are further described below and within the education section of the job announcement. To qualify for GS-12, you must have one year of directly related specialized experience equivalent to the GS-11 level: Assisting in the analysis of photonics-related technology problems; Analyzing laboratory data and advising primary investigators of findings; Collecting and organizing information to assist in simulating instrument models. To qualify for GS-13, you must have one year of directly related specialized experience equivalent to the GS-12 level: Identifying and analyzing photonics-related technology problems; Managing and reporting laboratory testing and simulations of technologies findings; Executing project goals based on research requirements. Your resume must include a clear and detailed narrative description, in your own words, of how you meet the required specialized experience. Experience statements copied from a position description, vacancy announcement or other reference material constitutes plagiarism and may result in disqualification and losing consideration for the job. NASA prohibits the use of artificial intelligence (AI) or AI-assisted tool in drafting application and assessment responses. Please visit https://www.nasa.gov/careers/how-to-apply/#Artificial-Intelligence to review NASA's guidance on the use of AI tools during the application process.
Major DutiesDuties described below are at the highest grade advertised. Duties assigned at lower grade levels will be of more limited scope, performed with less independence and limited complexity; duties will be commensurate with the grade of selected employee.Conducts, coordinates, and leads the development of technologies to enable astrophysics research.Enables exoplanet research; develops, models, and tests coronagraph technologies for high contrast imaging in support of NASA missions such as the Roman Space Telescope and the next astrophysics flagship, the Habitable Worlds Observatory.Collaborates within the Division, Directorate, and Center to achieve goals and engender team spirit and commitment.Leads or participates in small/mid-scale exoplanet missions and mission concepts. Obtains and manages the resources needed to perform the research in the Exoplanet technology group.Disseminates findings regularly through peer-reviewed publications, workshops, and scientific conferences.