OverviewElectrostatic and Surface Physics Subject Matter Expert
LOCATION: Kennedy Space Center, FL
JOB STATUS: Full-time
CLEARANCE: Background Investigation (BI)
CERTIFICATION: N/A
TRAVEL: Limited; as needed
CITIZENSHIP: Must be a U.S. citizen
ASTRION is seeking an on-site Electrostatic and Surface Physics Subject Matter Expert to support the Electrostatic and Surface Physics Laboratory at NASA's Kennedy Space Center (KSC). The successful candidate will provide scientific and technical leadership in applied physics research, technology development, and experimental testing, with an emphasis on electrostatic phenomena, particle-surface interactions, and dust mitigation technologies for space applications.
This position requires a combination of advanced technical expertise, hands-on laboratory experience, computational modeling capabilities, and the ability to independently lead multidisciplinary research and development efforts.
REQUIRED QUALIFICATIONS / SKILLS:
- PhD in Physics or a closely related engineering or physical science discipline.
- Minimum of 10 years of relevant professional experience in applied physics, electrostatics, surface physics, or closely related technical disciplines.
- Demonstrated expertise in electrostatics, electrodynamics, electric fields, charged particle behavior, or related physical phenomena.
- Experience developing and applying computational models and simulations to analyze complex physical systems and particle dynamics.
- Experience designing, conducting, and interpreting laboratory experiments, including physical testing using vacuum chambers, electronic instrumentation, sensors, and data acquisition systems.
- Demonstrated ability to lead technical projects, establish research objectives, coordinate multidisciplinary teams, and deliver results within established schedules.
- Strong analytical and problem-solving skills, including the ability to evaluate experimental data, interpret complex results, and develop technically sound conclusions.
- Ability to independently develop technical approaches, troubleshoot experimental systems, and provide subject matter expertise to research teams.
- Excellent written and verbal communication skills, including experience preparing technical reports, presenting research findings, and communicating with scientific and engineering stakeholders.
DESIRED QUALIFICATIONS / SKILLS:
- Proficiency in Python or other programming languages used for scientific computing, data analysis, modeling, and simulation.
- Specialized knowledge of electrostatic charging, surface interactions, particulate adhesion, dust transport, or electrostatic dust mitigation technologies.
- Experience with research and technology development supporting aerospace, planetary surface operations, or space exploration applications.
- Familiarity with experimental diagnostics, scientific instrumentation, and laboratory test systems operating under simulated space or planetary environmental conditions.
- Demonstrated experience mentoring technical personnel and providing scientific leadership to multidisciplinary research teams.
- Experience developing research proposals, technical publications, or scientific presentations.
RESPONSIBILITIES:
- Serve as a subject matter expert in electrostatic and surface physics, providing technical guidance and scientific leadership for NASA research and technology development activities.
- Lead and execute research projects focused on electrostatic phenomena, particulate dynamics, surface interactions, and dust mitigation technologies for space applications.
- Develop and apply analytical models and computational simulations to investigate complex particle behavior, electric field interactions, and related physical processes.
- Design, plan, and conduct laboratory investigations using specialized test equipment, vacuum chambers, sensors, and diagnostic instrumentation.
- Analyze experimental and simulation data, evaluate technical findings, and develop recommendations to advance research objectives and technology readiness.
- Develop experimental methodologies, establish test parameters, troubleshoot technical challenges, and identify opportunities to improve laboratory capabilities.
- Coordinate technical activities among scientists, engineers, technicians, NASA stakeholders, and external collaborators to ensure successful project execution.
- Prepare and present technical reports, research findings, test results, and scientific documentation to project teams and stakeholders.
- Provide technical oversight and mentorship to supporting personnel while ensuring laboratory activities are conducted in accordance with applicable safety and quality requirements.
- Support the identification and development of innovative technologies and research approaches that advance NASA's understanding and mitigation of electrostatic and dust-related challenges.
