Post-Doctoral Lunar Scientist
Phoenix, AZ
About the Position:
We are seeking a highly independent, publication-driven lunar scientist to conduct integrated analysis of lunar remote-sensing datasets (images, DTMs, spectral/photometric products), with emphasis on geomorphology and impact cratering.
Responsibilities:
- Collaborate with the LROC and ShadowCam teams to deliver mission products, scientific results, and programmatic commitments.
- Lead lunar geoscience investigations using LROC, ShadowCam, and complementary lunar datasets to address mission priorities and key community science objectives.
- Conduct and publish original research aligned with lunar exploration goals and Decadal Survey science themes.
- Analyze and interpret remote sensing and geospatial datasets to advance understanding of the lunar surface and environment.
- Present scientific findings at instrument team meetings, mission reviews, workshops, and professional conferences.
- Prepare and author peer-reviewed journal manuscripts, technical reports, and scientific publications.
- Contribute to the development of competitive research proposals and support mission-related funding initiatives.
- Coordinate with multidisciplinary teams to ensure scientific objectives are integrated into mission planning and execution.
- Support the delivery of science data products and related documentation to stakeholders, sponsors, and the broader scientific community.
Requirements:
- Demonstrated expertise in lunar geology, especially cratering physics, ejecta emplacement, and regolith processes.
- Proven ability to work with integrated datasets (image + DTM + spectral/photometric products) and translate them into significant science results.
- Experience examining remote sensing datasets in the context of planning future scientific observations and landing site/traversal planning and hazard assessment.
- Strong publication record and excellent written/oral communication; ability to collaborate with scientists, engineers, and operations staff, and willingness to mentor students or junior staff as opportunities arise.
- Direct experience with LROC and/or ShadowCam datasets and their operational constraints (lighting geometry, photometric normalization, controlled products).
- Experience using planetary image processing/analysis software, especially ISIS3.
- Strong skills with GIS for analysis, geologic mapping, and data curation/archival (e.g., ArcGIS, QGIS).
- Demonstrated quantitative methods background (statistics, data mining/time series, image processing, and/or scientific programming).
