Job Summary

The successful candidate will have the opportunity to contribute to one or more active NASA programs and to propose and lead new initiatives-either in collaboration with our team or as a principal investigator. We encourage applications from individuals with a range of experiences, backgrounds, and perspectives who are excited to contribute to our mission.

This position is initially for one year, with the potential for extension and career advancement as additional funding becomes available. We look forward to welcoming individuals who shares our enthusiasm for discovery, collaboration, and innovation in space science.

What Your Key Responsibilities Will Be

• Your primary initial role will be supporting the DYNAGLO CubeSat mission, a dual satellite NASA mission with a miniaturized Ultraviolet imager on each bus. DYNAGLO is designed to measure the Earth's airglow from neutral oxygen and nitrogen to detect atmospheric gravity waves in the thermosphere. DYNAGLO is currently in the middle of its integration and test phase in September 2026, with needed assistance in bus component test and assembly, instrument calibration analysis, science and operations planning, and general pre-flight testing to prepare for launch in 2027. This experience will prepare you to take on a leadership role on future CubeSats as they enter a similar phase, as well as potentially leading new proposals for instruments, technologies, and full missions, with mentorship and assistance from the entire DYNAGLO team.
• Other duties as assigned.

What You Should Know

• The LASP CubeSat team operates in an export-controlled facility. Candidates do not need to be US citizens or permanent residents, however there may be certain restrictions for non-US persons that can complicate some activities.
• As the CubeSat team works in a hands-on environment, on-site work is required for the majority of the time. Remote work is possible for short periods.

What We Can Offer

$86,800 - $94,300 per year.

Benefits

At the University of Colorado Boulder , we are committed to supporting the holistic health and well-being of our employees. Our comprehensive benefits package includes medical, dental, and retirement plans; generous paid time off; tuition assistance for you and your dependents; and an ECO Pass for local transit. As one of Boulder County's largest employers, CU Boulder offers an inspiring academic community and access to world-class outdoor recreation. Explore additional perks and programs through the CU Advantage program.

Be Statements

Be ambitious. Be groundbreaking. Be Boulder.

What We Require

• A PhD by August 2026 in a scientific or engineering field.
• Prior experience with instrument building and mechanical/electrical design, or other laboratory experience is welcome.

What You Will Need

• A background in Earth atmosphere science particularly dynamics in the thermosphere, and a record of problem solving and learning new skills as needed.

What We Would Like You to Have

• A long track record of working with your hands is preferred, whether in the lab or as a hobbyist. Creative problem-solving skills and a self-motivated attitude.

Special Instructions

To apply, please submit the following materials:

1. Resume or CV.
2. Cover Letter.

(Optional) Transcripts/Proof of Degree: If you are selected as the finalist, your degree will be verified by the CU Boulder Campus Human Resources Department using an approved online vendor. However, if your degree was obtained outside of the United States, please submit an English-translated version as an Optional document.

Please apply by 8/27/2026 for consideration.

Note: Application materials will not be accepted via email. For consideration, applications must be submitted through CU Boulder Jobs.

In compliance with the Colorado Job Application Fairness Act, in any materials you submit, you may redact or remove age-identifying information such as age, date of birth, or dates of school attendance or graduation. You will not be penalized for redacting or removing this information.