POSTDOCTORAL RESEARCHER - Planetary Dynamics - Boulder, CO

POSTDOCTORAL RESEARCHER - Planetary Dynamics - Boulder, CO

19-00192

Who We Are:

Contribute expertise in planetary dynamics and planet formation studies to a team of world‑class solar system scientists who are unlocking the mysteries of planetary system evolution, dynamics, and processes.

Objectives of this Role:

• Conduct analytical or numerical modeling and model analysis studies of problems in solar system dynamics and collisional physics with relevance to planet or Moon formation studies.
• Conduct observational data analysis that supports model validation.
• Incorporate additional physical schemes into numerical models.
• Develop and grow an independent research program through external program support.
• Participate in mission and/or instrument proposals to support the strategic growth of the Department.

Daily and Monthly Responsibilities:

• Independently develop and implement hypotheses‑driven numerical model and data analysis activities.
• Configure, initialize, run, and analyze solar system collisional and/or dynamical evolution models to test hypotheses.
• Maintain and grow a research program in solar system dynamics, planet formation, and/or collisional physics through external funding.
• Actively seek and apply for external support of research activities.
• Participate and contribute to group meetings for the “Center of Lunar Origin and Evolution”.

Requirements:

• Requires a Ph.D. in Planetary Science, Astronomy, Physics, Astrophysics, Geophysics or Aerospace Engineering with an expertise in planetary dynamics or related field.
• 0 years: Expertise in theory, programming, and numerical modeling.
• Ability to debug code, test code, and implement new physics.

Special Requirements:

Work assignment is in Boulder, Colorado. This is a 1‑year limited term assignment.

An Equal Employment Opportunity Employer: race, color, religion, sex, national origin, disability, and veteran status.